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Paroxetine

SSRI • Brands: Paxil, Paxil CR

Last reviewed: 2025-09-26

General information

Indicated for: Major depressive disorder; obsessive-compulsive disorder; panic disorder; social anxiety disorder; generalized anxiety disorder; posttraumatic stress disorder; premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

Dosing & forms

  • Forms/strengths: —
  • Frequency: —
  • Food: —
  • Typical range: 20–50 mg/day (IR); 25–62.5 mg/day (CR)

Mechanism (brief)

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).

Metabolism & Half‑life

  • Metabolism: Extensive CYP2D6 metabolism, potent CYP2D6 inhibitor.
  • Half‑life: ~21 h (nonlinear kinetics).

Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM)

Recommended: No

View labelExact

Monitoring highlights

  • Weight, BMI, and metabolic labs — Baseline and periodically
  • Monitor for anticholinergic effects (constipation, dry mouth) — During titration

Sources