Generic Paxil Cr

Paxil CR, which is generically prescribed paroxetine, is commonly used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, anxiety disorders, post traumatic stress disorders, and premenstrual dysphoric disorders. Paxil CR is a member of the family of medications known as SSRIs, or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.

Paxil CR is not appropriate for everyone. A thorough medical history should be assessed prior to prescribing this medication. Patients with a history of seizures, epilepsy, liver disease, kidney disease, bipolar disorder, drug addiction, or self harm and suicidal ideation may not be able to take Paxil CR or may require careful monitoring while undergoing drug therapy with this medication, depending on the condition and the severity of the condition.

The American Food and Drug Administration has give Paxil CR a pregnancy risk rating of category D. Paxil CR has been proven to cause serious harm and birth defects in newborns who were exposed to Paxil CR while in the uterus. Paxil CR does pass through the mother’s breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. The prescribing physician should avoid prescribing this medication to pregnant or nursing women or women who are likely to become pregnant. Paxil CR has been known to cause heart and lung defects in newborn babies.

There is a risk of side effects associated with Paxil CR, some of which are severe. A patient experiencing a serious side effect or an allergic reaction should seek immediate emergency medical intervention. An allergic reaction will present with symptoms that include facial swelling, including swelling of the lips, mouth, tongue, or throat, hives, and difficulty breathing. Other serious side effects which require emergency medical care include symptoms such as tremors, shivering, convulsions, muscle twitching or stiffness, loss of balance or coordination, agitation, confusion, sweating, and rapid heart rate.

Some patients who take Paxil CR are known to endure worsening symptoms. Patients who experience irritability, trouble sleeping, agitation, worsening depression, self harm, mania, aggressiveness, uncharacteristic behaviors, or thoughts of suicide should be taken to the nearest emergency room. This is especially true in patients under the age of 25. This medication is not recommended for children under the age of 18.

Other less serious side effects typically do not require emergency medical attention but should be reported to the prescribing physician. Patients should be encouraged to report all side effects. Less serious side effects include symptoms such as nervousness, restlessness, drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, insomnia constipation, loss of appetite, weight changes, dry mouth, yawning, ringing in the ears, and sexual dysfunction. Less serious side effects can often be reduced to a tolerable level by reducing the dosage of Paxil CR.

Paxil CR should be taken exactly as it has been prescribed. If the patient misses a dose, the dose should be taken as soon as it is remembered. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped to avoid a potential overdose. If an overdose is suspected, the patient should seek immediate medical intervention. An overdose will present with symptoms that include nausea, tremor, vomiting, sweating, blurry vision, rapid heart beat, decreased urination, confusion, aggression, seizures, coma, and death.

There is a risk of drug interactions associated with Paxil CR. A thorough medical history should be understood prior to prescribing this medication. Patients should be urged to inquire with the prescribing physician before taking any new medications, including over the counter medications and herbal remedies. Medications that are known to have a negative interaction include atomoxetine, blood thinners, heart rhythm medications, phenothiazine, almotripan, and other antidepressants. Pimozide, thioridizine, and MAO inhibitors are likely to cause serious interactions that may include death if taken with Paxil CR.