FDA-approved

Generic for Paxil^®

Paroxetine

Starting at $49/mo

Getting psychiatric care for anxiety and depression has never been more convenient. Consult with a healthcare provider through our platform to determine whether a medication like paroxetine could be right for you.

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Prescribed by a healthcare provider experienced in treating anxiety & depression, if appropriate
Unlimited provider messaging
Free dosage adjustments

What is paroxetine?

Paroxetine is an antidepressant medication in the SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) family. It works by balancing chemicals naturally found in the brain. The Food and Drug Administration first approved paroxetine in 1992 and it is marketed under the brand names Paxil®, Paxil CR®, Pexeva®, and Brisdelle®.

Paroxetine uses

Paroxetine is approved by the FDA to treat generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and major depressive disorder (MDD). It is also indicated for social anxiety disorder (social phobia), panic disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Paroxetine may also be prescribed for hot flashes in some cases. Not all mental health conditions can be treated by a provider through our platform. Those who are not candidates for treatment through our platform should consider seeking care from a medical provider in person to evaluate potential options for treatment.

How paroxetine works

Like other SSRIs, paroxetine lowers the amount of serotonin that your neurons reabsorb, which results in more free serotonin in your brain.

Only available if prescribed after an online consultation with a healthcare provider.

Controlled substances such as Xanax and Adderall are not available through our platform.

This page has been medically reviewed by Sylvia Valadez, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC.

How to get paroxetine online with Hers

1. Simple consultation

Complete an online mental health assessment and intake form, then connect with a healthcare provider through our platform.

2. Free delivery

Get paroxetine shipped to you for free, if prescribed.

3. Ongoing support

Enjoy secure, ongoing support 100% online—including refills and unlimited dosage adjustments.

What’s an SSRI?

Paroxetine

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a type of antidepressant that work by increasing levels of a mood-affecting chemical called serotonin in the brain which helps to improve your symptoms. Nice, right?

The science of paroxetine

Your brain naturally produces chemicals that make you feel good, like serotonin. Paroxetine keeps neurons from reabsorbing this chemical so that you have more of it available in your brain. Long story short? This can help to relieve symptoms of depression.

Good to know

Potential paroxetine side effects

The most common side effects of paroxetine include nausea, sleepiness, weakness, dizziness, feeling anxious or trouble sleeping, sexual dysfunction, blurred vision, sweating, shaking, not feeling hungry, dry mouth, constipation, infection, and yawning or drowsiness. Discuss any side effects you experience with your provider.

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I have been subscribed for 6 months and I can honestly say I’m doing so much better.

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Since my session I have still experienced some anxiety, but I feel like I am able to handle it and calm myself down now.

Gabriela

With Hims & Hers I paid 3x less for appointment & medication, with the certainty of a trustful and professional service.

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It was easier and more affordable than I ever imagined to get my medication.

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I got the help I needed, from the comfort of my couch...If you are struggling, Hers is the perfect place to begin your mental wellness journey.

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Results vary. Data were self-reported between 11/26/2021 and 08/01/2022 by Hers customers who 1) signed up between 11/04/2021 and 05/04/2022; 2) were prescribed antidepressant medication by a provider after their first consultation on the Hers platform; and 3) had an active subscription for such antidepressant medication through the Hers platform within 90 days after signing up.

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How Does Paroxetine Work?

A Guide to Paxil (Paroxetine) Side Effects

Frequently asked questions about paroxetine

How long does it take for paroxetine to work?

It takes about one to two weeks for paroxetine to kick in and start working, but sometimes can take a few months to reach its fullest effect. Sometimes, healthcare providers will start you on a lower dose and work the dosages up until they are fully effective over time.

How can I tell if paroxetine is working?

When taking an antidepressant like paroxetine, it is important to have regular check-ins with your healthcare to ensure that paroxetine is the right antidepressant for you. If you are having bothersome side effects or are not feeling any improvement in your condition, you should discuss if paroxetine is right with your healthcare provider. Do not try to determine on your own if paroxetine is working and do not stop taking your medication without consulting your healthcare provider.

Does paroxetine make you sleepy?

Paroxetine can cause you to feel sleepy because, in addition to mood, serotonin is an important neurotransmitter for regulating sleep and appetite. Paroxetine’s effect on serotonin may result in sleepiness or other changes in sleep. If you feel severe fatigue, consult your healthcare provider.

Does paroxetine cause weight gain?

In some cases, paroxetine may cause weight gain in both long-term and short-term use.

What are paroxetine’s known serious side effects?

Rare but serious adverse effects of paroxetine include worsening depression, suicidal thoughts or suicide, mania, seizures, risk of serotonin syndrome, toxic epidermal necrolysis (extreme blistering or peeling of the skin), hyponatremia (a condition that occurs when levels of sodium are too low in the blood), abnormal bleeding, acute hepatitis, and Stevens-Johnson syndrome.

What are some drug interactions with paroxetine?

Interactions with paroxetine include MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors such as methylene blue injection), pimozide, thioridazine, buspirone, lithium, tryptophan, St. John’s wort, amphetamines, warfarin, fluoxetine, tamoxifen, sertraline, citalopram, duloxetine, atomoxetine, diuretics, certain NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen), and more. This list is non-exhaustive.

Talk to a healthcare professional about any current medications before you use paroxetine.