Paroxetine

Indications & formulation #

Major depressive disorder in adults; CR formulation only. This reference covers the selected formulation; other indications and products need their own evidence.

Dose reference #

Adult educational reference · PAXIL CR oral extended-release tablet · United States. The clinician selects treatment after assessment; this page does not calculate or change a prescription.

Start 25 mg each morning; increments of 12.5 mg at weekly intervals if needed, up to 62.5 mg/day. Swallow whole.

Contraindications & important cautions #

Avoid MAOIs and contraindicated QT-prolonging CYP2D6 substrates. CYP2D6 inhibition matters for tamoxifen and co-medication.

Selected important cautions; consult the full product information for all contraindications and warnings.

Adverse effects #

Sexual effects, weight change, anticholinergic burden and discontinuation symptoms can affect ongoing use.

Interactions #

CYP2D6 inhibition can alter co-medication exposure, including activation of some prodrugs; review serotonergic combinations.

Monitoring #

Review tolerability, interactions, reproductive context and discontinuation planning against the exact formulation.

Special populations #

Older adults or severe renal/hepatic impairment: start CR 12.5 mg/day; maximum CR 50 mg/day. Review reproductive risks before treatment.

Adult scope. Pregnancy, breastfeeding and pediatric use require the exact product’s population-specific guidance and individual assessment.

Discontinuation, restarting & counseling #

Plan gradual withdrawal. Do not substitute CR and immediate-release dosing schedules.

Brands & products #

Reference coverage #

Structured summary of selected adult uses, not an exhaustive monograph. Indian product authorization and local prescribing requirements have not been reconciled.