Seroxat (Paxil) Use

Seroxat is a prescription medication that helps relieve symptoms of depression or anxiety.

How Seroxat (Paxil) works

Seroxat works by increasing the availability of serotonin. Serotonin is an important chemical in the brain that helps transmit messages from one nerve cell to another. Studies have shown that lowered levels of this chemical can often times lead to depression.

How to take Seroxat (Paxil)

Seroxat should be taken exactly as prescribed. The normal recommended starting dose for most patients is 20 mg a day.

Seroxat (Paxil) precautions

Do not take Seroxat if you are taking a type of medication known as monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). Serious complications can occur. Also, use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other potentially hazardous activities until you are absolutely certain how your body will react to this medication. If you drink alcohol let your doctor know before you begin treatment. Alcohol may increase the effects of dizziness and drowsiness.

What to tell your doctor

Before you begin treatment, it's important that you let your doctor know if you are pregnant or nursing, have liver or kidney disease, seizure disorder, suffer from mania, or have thoughts of suicide. You may not be able to take Seroxat or you may require a special adjustment to your dose if you have any of these conditions.

Seroxat (Paxil) side effects

During your treatment you may experience side effects. In clinical studies, the most common side effects reported with this medication were nausea, infection, diarrhea, constipation, decreased appetite, sleepiness, dizziness, yawning, sweating, abnormal vision, and sexual side effects. These side effects were mild to moderate and in most cases disappeared over a period of time. If you experience any of these side effects be sure to report them to your health provider. If more severe side effects occur, such as allergic reaction, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure (dizziness or weakness), high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision), unusual bleeding or bruising, or fever or chills stop taking this medicine and seek medical help immediately.