Paroxetine
Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant used for depression, several anxiety disorders, and sometimes PTSD when your prescriber selects it. Benefits often appear after two to four weeks, not immediately.
This medicine is part of the Mental health medicines category.
Generic name: paroxetine
Quick answers
Short replies to searches people often run before speaking to a clinician. For the overview of what the medicine is used for, see the short summary under the page title above.
What is it for?
Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant used for depression, several anxiety disorders, and sometimes PTSD when your prescriber selects it.
How long does it take to work?
Many antidepressants need several weeks on a steady dose before full benefit; your GP usually reviews you in that window.
What are common side effects?
Nausea, sweating, sleep changes, sexual dysfunction, or feeling jittery early on.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with it?
Tramadol, triptans, St John’s wort, and other serotonergic drugs raise serotonin syndrome risk.
More about what Paroxetine is used for
Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant used for depression, several anxiety disorders, and sometimes PTSD when your prescriber selects it.
Benefits often appear after two to four weeks, not immediately.
How does Paroxetine work, and how long does it take to work?
It increases serotonin availability at nerve junctions, which over time helps mood and anxiety symptoms in many people.
Exact brain changes are complex and individual.
How and when should you take Paroxetine?
Usually once daily in the morning with food if nausea occurs — follow your leaflet for controlled-release forms.
Do not stop suddenly after months of use without a taper plan from your GP — withdrawal-type symptoms are recognised.
What are the common side effects of Paroxetine?
Nausea, sweating, sleep changes, sexual dysfunction, or feeling jittery early on.
Drowsiness or insomnia varies by person.
Serious side effects of Paroxetine — when to get urgent help
Seek urgent help for suicidal thoughts new or worsening, severe agitation, serotonin syndrome features (fever, confusion, clonus), or severe allergic reactions.
What if you miss a dose of Paroxetine?
Take when remembered unless nearly time for next; do not double.
Who should not take Paroxetine?
MAOI combinations and some pimozide interactions are dangerous. Manic episodes may emerge in bipolar disorder — screening matters.
Pregnancy, especially third trimester, needs specialist advice.
Can you take paracetamol or ibuprofen with Paroxetine? — other interactions
Paroxetine in pregnancy and breastfeeding
Discuss risks and benefits with your prescriber or perinatal psychiatrist.
Blood tests and monitoring on Paroxetine
Early follow-up after starting antidepressants is important for mood and side effects.
What might your GP prescribe instead of Paroxetine?
Sertraline, Citalopram, or non-drug therapies may be considered if paroxetine is unsuitable.
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Reviewed by UK registered pharmacists for accuracy and clarity. Content is informational only.
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Frequently asked questions about Paroxetine
People also ask — common Google searches
- What is Paroxetine used for?
- Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant used for depression, several anxiety disorders, and sometimes PTSD when your prescriber selects it. Benefits often appear after two to four weeks, not immediately.
- How long does Paroxetine take to work?
- Many antidepressants need several weeks on a steady dose before full benefit; your GP usually reviews you in that window. Always follow your prescriber’s follow-up plan.
- Can you take Paroxetine with paracetamol or ibuprofen?
- Tramadol, triptans, St John’s wort, and other serotonergic drugs raise serotonin syndrome risk.
- What are the side effects of Paroxetine?
- Nausea, sweating, sleep changes, sexual dysfunction, or feeling jittery early on. Drowsiness or insomnia varies by person. See the sections below for more detail, including serious side effects and when to seek urgent help.
- Why does paroxetine cause withdrawal if I miss doses?
- Paroxetine has a short half-life, so levels drop quickly — your prescriber may taper slowly when stopping.
- Can paroxetine affect sex life?
- Sexual side effects are common with SSRIs — tell your GP if they bother you; dose changes or switching may be discussed.
Need personalised advice?
Your local pharmacist or GP surgery can help with questions about your medicines, side effects, and alternatives that may be suitable for you.
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Often used with
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