Paxil

Paxil is a drug that is used to treat a number of conditions, including depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and panic disorder. The drug is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which means it works by balancing the levels of a specific chemical (serotonin) in the brain. Paxil comes in tablet and suspension (liquid) form and is usually taken once a day. Ejaculation problems, nausea, and drowsiness are a few of the most common side effects reported with Paxil.

 

What Is Paxil?

Paxil® (paroxetine hydrochloride) is a prescription medicine used to treat a number of conditions within the brain.
 

Who Makes Paxil?

Paxil is manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline. Generic Paxil is made by several manufacturers.
 

What Is Paxil Used For?

Paxil is licensed to treat a number of conditions. These Paxil uses include the treatment of:
 
(Click Paxil Uses for more information on what Paxil is used for, including possible off-label uses of the medication.)
 

How Does Paxil Work?

Paxil is part of a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs for short. SSRIs act on a specific chemical in the brain known as serotonin. Serotonin is one of several chemicals used to send messages from one nerve cell to another.
 
As a message travels down a nerve, it causes the end of the cell to release serotonin. The serotonin enters the gap between the first nerve cell and the one next to it. When enough serotonin reaches the second nerve cell, it activates receptors on the cell and the message continues on its way. The first cell then quickly absorbs any serotonin that remains in the gap between cells. This is called "reuptake."
 
Normally, this process works without any problems. But when the levels of serotonin become unbalanced, it can cause a variety of conditions, including depression. Paxil helps to block the reuptake of serotonin so more serotonin remains in the space between the brain's nerve cells. This gives the serotonin a better chance of activating the receptors on the next nerve cell.
 
(Paxil Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;