• Paxil is an antidepressant in a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Paxil is used to treat depression, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety disorders and post-traumatic stress disorder.

How should you take this medication?

• Paxil may be taken with or without food or on a full or empty stomach. Try to take the medicine at the same time each day.
   
• Do not crush, chew, or break a controlled-release tablet. Swallow the pill whole. Shake the liquid form of paxil well just before you measure a dose. Use a small measuring cup or a measuring spoon to measure each dose. The teaspoons and tablespoons that are used for serving and eating food do not measure exact amounts.

• You may have to take paxil for several weeks before you begin to feel better . Your doctor should check your progress at regular visits during this time. Also, if you are taking paroxetine for depression, you will probably need to continue taking it for at least 6 months to help prevent the depression from returning.

General Precautions with Paxil

• Tell your doctor if you have ever had any unusual or allergic reaction to paroxetine.
   
• Paxil may impair your judgment, thinking, or motor skills. Do not drive, operate dangerous machinery, or participate in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you are sure the medication is not affecting you in this way.
   
• Paxil has been shown to cause heart and other problems in infants of mothers who took Paxil. Before taking this medicine, make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or if you may become pregnant.
   
• Paxil should be used cautiously by people with a history of manic disorders and those with high pressure in the eyes.

What are the possible side effects of Paxil?

• Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
  seizure, muscle pain, problems with balance or coordination, trouble swallowing, sweating, fast heartbeat.

• Other less serious side effects are more likely to occur, such as: dry mouth, yawning, dizziness, sleep problems, nausea, constipation, loss of appetite, decreased sex drive, or ringing in your ears.