Paroxetine

It is an orally administered serotonin selective reuptake inhibitor. Antidepressant action of drugs. This is presumed to be linked to potentiation of serotonergic activity in the CNS resulting from inhibition of neuronal re uptake of 5-hydroxytryptamine.

Indications: Treatment of depression, obsessive compulsive disorders and panic disorders.

Contradictions: Concomitant use in patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI’s).

Safety Profile: Patients with history of mania and seizures, high risk patients with suicidal tendencies in close supervision. With severe hepatic and severe renal impairment. Avoid operating hazardous machinery including automobiles.

Adverse Effects: Asthenia, sweating, nausea, decreased appetite somnolence, dizziness, insomnia, tremor, nervousness, constipation ejaculatory disturbance and impotence.

Drug Interactions: These drugs should not be used in combination with a MAOI’s or within 14 days of discontinuing treatment with MAOI. Monoamine-oxidase inhibitors: avoid concomitant use since serious, some times fatal reactions have been reported. Warfarin – Concomitant administration should be under taken caution. Tricyclic antidepressants – May inhibit TCA metabolism, alcohol- avoid while taking the drug.

Dosage: Depression – Initially 20mg/daily, increased gradually, if necessary, by increments of 10mg to a maximum of 50mg daily. Obsessive – compulsive disorders: Initially 20mg daily increase weekly in10mg increments according to clinical response, the usual recommended maintenance dose is 40mg daily although some patients may benefit from 60mg daily. Elderly, debilitated and/or severe renal or hepatic impairment patients: initially 10mg daily increases may be made is indicated.