Paroxetine Hydrochloride

Also sold as PAROXETINE HYDROCHLORIDE, Paroxetine, PAROXETINE, paroxetine hydrochloride

Medicine summary · from official FDA labels · Oct 19, 2026

Serious warning: WARNING: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in pediatric and young adult patients in short-term studies. Closely monitor all antidepressant-treated patients for clinical worsening, and for emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.

8 recalls on record — a recall affects specific batches; check with your pharmacist.

What it’s used for

Paroxetine tablets are indicated in adults for the treatment of: Major depressive disorder (MDD) Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) Panic disorder (PD) Social anxiety disorder (SAD) Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) indicated in adults for the treatment of ( 1 ): Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) Panic Disorder (PD) Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

How to take it

Recommended starting and maximum daily dosage for MDD, OCD, PD, and PTSD: ( 2. 2 ) Indication Starting Daily Dose Maximum Daily Dose MDD 20 mg 50 mg OCD 20 mg 60 mg PD 10 mg 60 mg PTSD 20 mg 50 mg Recommended starting dosage for SAD and GAD is 20 mg daily.

Important warnings

Serotonin Syndrome: Increased risk when co-administered with other serotonergic agents, but also when taken alone. If occurs, discontinue paroxetine and serotonergic agents and initiate supportive measures.

Common side effects

The following adverse reactions are included in more detail in other sections of the prescribing information: Hypersensitivity reactions to paroxetine [see Contraindications (4) ] Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors [see Warnings and Precautions (5. 1) ] Serotonin Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.

Interactions

Table 9 presents clinically significant drug interactions with paroxetine.

If pregnant or breastfeeding

Forms & strengths

7.5 MG Oral Capsule · 10 MG Oral Tablet · 20 MG Oral Tablet · 30 MG Oral Tablet · 40 MG Oral Tablet · 2 MG/ML Oral Suspension

Questions to ask your doctor or pharmacist

Is this the right medicine for my condition, and how long should I take it?
What side effects should I watch for, and which need urgent attention?
Does this interact with my other medicines, supplements, or alcohol?
What should I do if I miss a dose or take too much?