Paxil CR

What is Paxil CR?

Paxil CR stands for an antidepressant and belongs to a group of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors which act by affecting certain chemicals in the brain and restoring balance. Paxil CR is effective for treating such conditions as obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and depression.

What is the most important information I should know about Paxil CR?

Keep in mind that if you start taking an antidepressant for the first time, there is a risk of suicidal thoughts, especially among patients who are under 24. You should visit your health care provider on a regular basis at least during the first 12 weeks of Paxil CR treatment.

In case you notice one of the following symptoms developing to a particular level of intensity, you should contact your health care provider at once: panic attacks, suicidal thought, changes in behavior and mood, trouble sleeping, depression, or if you feel anxious, irritable, hyperactive, aggressive, hostile, agitated, restless or impulsive.

If you are taking the drug and become pregnant, you shouldn't stop using Paxil CR, as it may provoke more intense depression. Consult with your doctor beforehand.

You shouldn't mix Paxil CR with such drugs as thioridazine (Mellaril) and pimozide (Orap), as well as with monoamine oxidase inhibitor, namely selegiline (Eldepryl, Emsam), isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate) and phenelzine (Nardil). Wait at least two weeks after you stopped using these drugs before you can start treatment with Paxil CR.

Inform your health care provider if you have such conditions as kidney disease, liver disease, epilepsy, seizure, bipolar disorder, blood clotting or bleeding disorder or a history of drug addiction. In this case you need special dosage adjustment and tests while taking Paxil CR.

FDA pregnancy category D. Remember that Paxil CR is likely to provoke birth defects in a fetus, so avoid taking this drug during pregnancy. Paxil CR appears in breast milk and can be harmful for a nursing baby, so you shouldn't use it when you are breastfeeding.

How should I take Paxil CR?

Do not exceed the dosage and try to follow your standard schedule, using the medication at the same time each day.

The pill should be swallowed whole, without being chewed, broken or crushed. If you crush the pill, too much of the medication will be released at once, and it can be harmful for your body.

If Paxil CR comes in a liquid form, shake it before using. Take a marked measuring spoon or a medical cup to make sure your dose is correct.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the dose you missed as soon as possible. Do not use an extra dose to make up for the missed one.

What happens if I overdose?

If you detect such overdose symptoms as coma, seizure, decreased urination, aggression, rapid heartbeat, sweating, nausea, vomiting, confusion, blurred vision or tremor, you should seek immediate medical assistance.