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Paroxetine is a prescription-only medicine for depression. This preparation is recommended for people who struggle with severe depressive episodes, obsessive-compulsive disorders and social phobias. What is the mechanism of action of paroxetine? What precautions should I take when using paroxetine?
Paroxetine – mechanism of action
According to the principles of the functioning of the human body, symptoms of depression are most often caused by a decrease in the level of norepinephrine or a change in the sensitivity of norepinephrine and serotonin receptors. The drug paroxetine is one of the strongest serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Paroxetine prolongs the action of serotonin in the synaptic cleft. The effect of increasing excitability is a significant improvement in mood, which usually occurs after a few days of using this preparation.
Paroxetine – when to use?
Paroxetine is a prescription medicine. Therefore, in order to start using it, you should first seek specialist psychiatric advice. This drug is used to treat depression, anxiety-depressive, obsessive-compulsive disorders, social phobia, panic disorder with or without agoraphobia. Paroxetine is prescribed to patients who struggle with moderate to severe depressive disorders. It is also a safe drug for the elderly.
Side effects of paroxetine
Paroxetine is a potent drug and can therefore cause various side effects. The most common side effects of paroxetine use are nausea, decreased libido, vomiting, dry mouth, reduced sleep, drowsiness, anxiety and persistent headaches. Permanent sexual dysfunction may occur in some cases.
Paroxetine – contraindications
The contraindication to the use of paroxetine is hypersensitivity to this compound or any other ingredient in this preparation. In addition, paroxetine can not be used in parallel with MAO inhibitors, as well as with thioridazine. Treatment with MAO inhibitors and paroxetine must be clearly separated in time. During a medical visit, it is important to specify exactly when and in what doses other medications were taken.
Precautions when using paroxetine
When using paroxetine, several precautions should be taken. This preparation should not be used in children and adolescents under 18 years of age. In this age group, an increased risk of suicidal behavior and an increased hostility were observed in clinical trials. Caution in the use of paroxetine is also recommended in patients who are struggling with severe renal or hepatic insufficiency, diabetes, epilepsy or heart disorders. You should also inform your doctor about all the medicines you take regularly, as their simultaneous use with paroxetine may cause additional, undesirable side effects. Paroxetine cannot be discontinued overnight. It is recommended to gradually reduce the dose or extend the intervals between their administration.