Key facts about Paxil CR
What is Paxil CR?
Paxil CR is the brand name for paroxetine and is available as an extended-release oral tablet.
What dosages is Paxil CR available in?
Paxil CR is available as a : 12.5 mg, 25 mg, and 37.5 mg extended-release oral tablet.
What is Paxil CR used for?
Paxil CR is an SSRI and is used to treat:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
- Panic Disorder (PD)
- Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD)
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
How does Paxil CR work?
Paxil CR is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It works by raising the levels of serotonin, an important chemical in your brain that’s involved with regulating your mood.
How do I take Paxil CR?
Paxil CR is typically given in dose ranges from 12.5 mg to 75 mg by mouth once per day.
Is it safe for me to take Paxil CR?
Paxil CR is a safe and effective treatment when used for FDA licensed indications. However, like all medications, they may give you unwanted side effects. You should always discuss potential side effects with your physician to ensure the medication is suitable and right for you. You should not use this medication if you are currently taking pimozide or thioridazine or have taken an MAOI within the past 14 days.
Paxil CR Common Side Effects
Common side effects of Paxil CR:
- Abnormal ejaculation
- Nausea
- Weakness
- Sleepiness or trouble sleeping
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Diarrhea
- Low libido
- Shakiness
Paxil CR Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are rare with Paxil CR. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors
- Serotonin syndrome: fast heart rate, dizziness, sweating, flushing, tremor (shakiness), muscle stiffness, muscle twitching or spasms, uncoordinated movement, distress, seizures, distress, hallucinations, coma
- Seizures
- Abnormal heart rhythm (QT prolongation): chest pounding, short of breath, chest pain, feeling faint or lightheaded
- Severe bleeding: bruising that doesn’t improve, black-colored stools, pink or red-colored urine, coughing up or vomiting blood, or unusual bleeding from the nose or gums
- Low blood sodium levels: nausea, fatigue, headache, confusion, disoriented, hallucinations (seeing things that aren’t real), seizures, unconsciousness
Effects of other drugs, drug classes and over-the-counter products on Paxil CR
The following medications may interact with Paxil CR:
- Drugs Highly Bound to Plasma Protein: Monitor for adverse reactions and reduce dosage of Paxil CR or other protein-bound drugs (e.g., warfarin) as warrante
- Drugs Metabolized by CYP2D6: Reduce dosage of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 as warranted
- Concomitant use with Tamoxifen: Consider use of an alternative antidepressant with little or no CYP2D6 inhibition
Who makes Paxil CR?
GlaxoSmithKline
Is Paxil CR safe in pregnancy?
Paxil CR can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. If Paxil CR is used during pregnancy, or if you become pregnant while taking Paxil CR, you should talk to your provider about the risks.













