09/11/2024
Depression is a mental disorder that involves loss of interest in activities for a prolonged period. Most people encounter this condition, but they wean off in a few days with a change in circumstances. Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a condition that involves feeling low or hopeless for more than two weeks. If left untreated, it may impact relationships and physical and emotional well-being. A study showed that more than 20 million Americans suffer from major depression disorder. The reasons for depression could be family issues, conflict in relationships, trauma or abuse, etc. The good news is there are numerous antidepressants available for treating depression. One of the popular ones is Paroxetine Hydrochloride 40mg tablets.
Antidepressants are not only used for treating depression, but the FDA has approved them for treating other medical conditions as well. For instance, they are widely used for treating anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, social anxiety disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, etc. However, before you buy antidepressant drugs online, please consult your doctor. The doctor would suggest which antidepressant would be most suitable for you. As an affordable option, you may opt for generic antidepressant medications but do discuss this with your doctor. In this blog, we will know in detail about Paroxetine, its uses, side effects, and other information associated with it.
Paroxetine Hydrochloride is the active ingredient present in the drug Oxetine. It is an FDA-approved psychotropic drug for treating depression disorder. It is sold under multiple brand names (like Paxil, Paxil CR, Pexeva, etc). It belongs to the drug category known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). They work by acting on neurotransmitters, which assist in regulating mood. This drug is administered orally. In addition to normal tablets, it is available as a controlled-release and also in liquid form. This medication is available in various strengths (ranging from 7.5 to 40mg). Post consultation with your doctor, you may buy Oxetine 40mg tablets for treating depression.
Like other drugs in the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), Paroxetine works by blocking the serotonin reuptake transporter (SERT). It helps increase the chemical in brains named “serotonin.” Paroxetine Hydrochloride functions by impacting the activity of certain neurotransmitters, such as:
Serotonin: It helps regulate mood, sleep, digestion, and pain. A low level of serotonin is considered to be the cause of depression.
Norepinephrine: It is also called noradrenaline and plays a key role in arousal, cognitive behavior, and stress reactions.
Dopamine: It plays an important role in movement, learning, attention, and memory. It brings a feeling of pleasure.
Paroxetine is used majorly to treat the following conditions:
General anxiety disorder (GAD)
Panic disorder
Social anxiety disorder
Depression
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
Menopausal symptoms like hot flashes
Paroxetine may also be used to treat conditions other than those listed above.
Before you take this drug, you must go through the patient leaflet.
Your doctor will suggest the dosage based on your symptoms. This drug is taken orally.
Paroxetine hydrochloride can be taken with or without food.
Make sure to complete the treatment, or else the symptoms could worsen. You must strictly adhere to the guidelines laid down by your healthcare expert.
Before prescribing this medication, your healthcare expert will inform you about the advantages and risks associated with this drug. It is also essential to let your doctor know of the following:
If you are allergic to Paroxetine or any other drug or its ingredients.
Inform your doctor of the medication you might be taking (both prescription and non-prescription). This would help avoid altercations with other other drugs.
Let your doctor know if you have any issues related to the kidney, bone, or liver.
Inform your healthcare provider of medical conditions such as seizure, mania, and high intra-ocular pressure (glaucoma).
Inform your doctor about any herbal or health supplements you might be taking.
Let your doctor know if you are pregnant or are planning to get pregnant.
Just like any other medication, even Paroxetine may cause side effects, both common and severe. The common side effects of this drug are listed below:
Feeling Dizzy
Loss of appetite, diarrhea, or constipation
Dry Mouth, headache and weakness
Disturbed Sleep, tiredness, or restlessness
Sweating, nausea and vomiting
Paroxetine may make you drowsy and impact your ability to think and make judgments. It is, therefore, advisable not to indulge in activity that requires focus and alertness, such as driving.
These side effects fade once the body gets accustomed to the medication and does not require medical attention. However, if any of the symptoms persist or worsen over time, you must consult your doctor.
Although adverse effects of Paroxetine are rare, however, the possibility of encountering them can’t be ruled out. A few of the severe side effects of Paroxetine are mentioned below.
Increases Suicidal Tendency: People taking Paroxetine or any other antidepressants have an increased probability of experiencing suicidal thoughts. Depression and other mental illnesses also contribute to suicidal thoughts and suicide attempts. If you witness such a feeling, contact your doctor immediately.
Serotonin Syndrome: Paroxetine may cause serotonin syndrome (increased level of a chemical named Serotonin). This condition could be fatal; therefore, get immediate medical help if you experience dizziness, seizures, tremors, or feelings of confusion.
Mania: People who have been put on Paroxetine for Bipolar Disorder may experience extremely elevated mood, also called mania or manic episodes. Contact your doctor immediately upon noticing an intense increase in energy, reckless behavior, feeling of extreme happiness or irritation, racing thoughts, or talking faster than normal.
Glaucoma: This drug may lead to angle-closure glaucoma (increased hypertension of the eyes caused due to fluid retention). It may impact vision and could even cause loss of vision. Get in touch with your doctor immediately if you experience pain or redness in the eyes or see colorful circles around lights, also called visions halos.
Sexual Issues: People taking Paroxetine or any other drug of class selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) may encounter sexual trouble such as low libido, trouble achieving or maintaining erection during sexual activity, and delayed or inability to ejaculate. If you witness any of the aforementioned symptoms, talk to your doctor immediately about them.
Note: The above-listed ailments are not the only serious side effects of Paroxetine. People may come across other side effects as well. Upon witnessing such a condition, refrain from taking this drug and consult your doctor immediately.
Living with depression impacts life in many ways. Although there is no accurate cure, the symptoms can certainly be minimized with medication and other treatments. Paroxetine is among the most prescribed antidepressants to address the symptoms of depression. You might be asked to take this drug independently or in combination with other medications. You need to work together with your doctor, who will formulate a treatment plan best suited for you to help you get over this condition.
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