Structural Biochemistry/Paxil

Introduction

Paxil (also recognized by the names Sereupin, Seroxat, Aropax, and Paroxetine) is an antidepressant drug belonging to a class of molecules called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI's). It can be used to treat depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric stress disorder. Paraxil is an orally administered psychotropic drug found in tablet form with the molecular formula of C19H20FNO3•HCl•1/2H2O and a molecular weight of 374.8.

Instructions

Paxil should be administered for depression as a single daily morning dose for of 20 mg/day. Dose ranges may range from 10 mg to 50 mg and should be reviewed weekly. This drug is known to be effective up to a year of administration. Paxil tablets exist in different concentrations marked by color: 10 mg- yellow, 20 mg- pink, 30 mg- blue, 40 mg- green. They should be stored at or under 25°C. This drug has proven to have teratogenic effects on pregnant women, so prior consideration should be given before being taken. Studies have discovered detrimental lung and heart disorders in newborns whose mothers took Paxil. It is designated as a black box warning by the Food and Drug Administration as minors younger than age 18 are discouraged from using it. Paxil should not be taken in conjuction with Orap, Mellaril, Zyvox, Urolene Blue, MAOI, Furoxone, Marlplan, Nardil, Azilect, Eldepryl, or Parnat to avoid adverse drug interactions. In addition, the doctor must be notified of any liver or kidney disease, blood clotting disorders, a history of depression, and prior suicidal thoughts.

Side Effects

Contact your doctor if your display any of these side effects.

• Bone pain, swelling, tenderness
• Agitation, hallucinations,
• Stiff muscles
• Headache
• Decreased sex drive
• Mild nausea, constipation
• Weight Change
• Dry mouth, yawning, ringing in ears
• Suicidal behavior

References

"Home Drugs A-z List Paxil (paroxetine Hydrochloride) Side Effects Drug Center Paxil (paroxetine Hydrochloride) Drug - Medication Guide and Patient Information." Paxil (Paroxetine Hydrochloride) Drug Information: Medication Guide and Patient Information. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 Dec. 2012.

"Paroxetine." Wikipedia. Wikimedia Foundation, 12 June 2012. Web. 07 Dec. 2012.

"Paxil." Information from Drugs.com. N.p., n.d. Web. 07 Dec. 2012.