Generic Name:
PAROXETINE (pa-ROX-e-teen)
Drug Manufacturer:
S K B
Common Uses:
This
medicine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat
depression, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), social
anxiety disorder (social phobia) and generalized anxiety disorders (GAD).
SSRIs work by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances
in the brain (neurotransmitters). Paroxetine may also be used to treat a
variety of other conditions as determined by your doctor including severe
premenstrual syndrome (premenstrual dysphoric disorder), sexual problems in
men (premature ejaculation), nerve problems associated with diabetes
(diabetic neuropathy), chronic headaches, or post-traumatic stress disorder
(PTSD).
How to use this Medicine:
Follow
the directions for using this medicine provided by your doctor. This
medicine may be taken on an empty stomach or with food. STORE THIS MEDICINE
at room temperature at 77 degrees F (25 degrees C) in a tightly-closed
container, away from heat and light. Brief storage between 59 and 86 degrees
F (15 and 30 degrees C) is permitted. CONTINUE TO TAKE THIS MEDICINE even if
you feel better. Do not miss any doses. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS MEDICINE
and you are taking it in the morning, take it during the afternoon if you
remember. If you do not remember until the next morning, skip the missed
dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. IF YOU MISS A DOSE and you
are taking 1 dose daily at bedtime and do not remember until the next day,
skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not
take 2 doses at once.
Cautions:
DO NOT
TAKE THIS MEDICINE if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are
allergic to any ingredient in this product. AT LEAST 1 TO 2 WEEKS, and
sometimes up to 4 weeks, may pass before this medicine reaches its full
effect. THIS MEDICINE IS NOT RECOMMENDED for use in children or adolescents
under 18 years of age. IT IS IMPORTANT THAT ALL PATIENTS, including those
under 18, consult with their doctor before stopping this medicine. DO NOT
SUDDENLY STOP TAKING THIS MEDICINE without checking with your doctor. Side
effects may occur if this medicine is suddenly stopped. KEEP ALL DOCTOR AND
LABORATORY APPOINTMENTS while you are taking this medicine. THIS MEDICINE
MAY CAUSE drowsiness. Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else
that could be dangerous until you know how you react to this medicine. DO
NOT DRINK ALCOHOL while you are taking this medicine. BEFORE YOU BEGIN
TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter, check with
your doctor. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss with your
doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy,
especially during the third trimester. THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED IN BREAST
MILK. IF YOU ARE OR WILL BE BREAST-FEEDING while you are using this
medicine, check with your doctor or pharmacist to discuss the risks to your
baby.
Possible Side Effects:
SIDE
EFFECTS, that may go away during treatment, include nervousness, trouble
sleeping, drowsiness, fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of
appetite, dry mouth, sweating, dizziness, lightheadedness, or changes in
sexual function. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor.
CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY if you experience mental or mood changes,
seizures, or unusual bleeding or bruising. FOR MEN: If you experience a
prolonged, painful erection, stop using this medicine and seek immediate
medical attention or permanent problems could occur. AN ALLERGIC REACTION to
this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it
occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling,
dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed
above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.