Paxil® (
paroxetine hydrochloride) is a prescription medication approved to treat several conditions affecting the brain, including
panic disorder. People with panic disorder have recurrent, unexpected feelings of extreme fear and dread that strike for no apparent reason, causing a racing heartbeat, rapid breathing, sweating, and shakiness. These "attacks" can send people to the hospital believing they are having a
heart attack. A
panic attack may even occur when the person is not in a situation that would normally create stress,
anxiety, or fear.
Two studies looked at using Paxil for panic disorder treatment in adults. Up to 76 percent of people taking the drug were free from
panic attacks, compared to only 44 percent of those not taking it. Paxil has not been studied in children or teens with panic disorder.
(Click Paxil Uses for a closer look at using Paxil for panic disorder and other conditions affecting the brain. This article also discusses how Paxil works and offers information on possible off-label uses of the drug.)
