People's Pharmacy

Paxil

Generic Name:paroxetine

Revised:4/1/2000

Table of Contents

Special Precautions

Some people may need very close monitoring if the doctor prescribes Paxil.

For people who have had an episode of mania, there is a risk that manic symptoms could be triggered by Paxil.

Patients who have had seizures also need to followed carefully, since Paxil, like most other antidepressants, may provoke seizures in susceptible individuals.

Because Paxil may cause drowsiness or dizziness, people taking this medicine should not drive or use dangerous machines unless an objective evaluation shows they are not impaired.

Older people and those with kidney disease or liver problems may need to start on a reduced dose, as they may eliminate Paxil less efficiently than otherwise healthy people.

Anyone with a history of suicide attempts must also be extremely vigilant. There have been reports that some people may develop a preoccupation with suicide or violence while taking Prozac.

It is still not certain whether this is caused by the underlying mental condition or is in some way related to the drug. If Prozac were responsible for any of these incidents, there might also be a risk with Paxil.

Family members must help monitor people on Paxil for suicidal thoughts or self-destructive behaviors. The doctor must be notified immediately in such cases.