People's Pharmacy

Paxil

Generic Name:paroxetine

Revised:4/1/2000

Table of Contents

Overview

Paxil, like the earlier antidepressant Prozac, apparently works by enhancing the action of a brain chemical called serotonin.

This medication is prescribed to treat major depression, and has been shown to be effective for up to one year.

Like Prozac, Paxil is less likely to cause typical side effects associated with older medications.

Tricyclic antidepressants like Elavil, Tofranil, Sinequan and Pamelor often produce dry mouth, dizziness, weight gain, and a sluggish or lethargic feeling. Paxil may not have these effects, and may have a slight stimulant action.