What is the brand name for Paroxetine?
The brand name for Paroxetine is Paxil.
PTCB TOP 200 · #72
Paroxetine
Paxil
Paroxetine is the generic name for the brand-name drug Paxil. It is a ssri antidepressant used to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Paroxetine ranks #72 and is one of the most frequently tested cns/psych medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Paroxetine |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Paxil |
| Drug class | SSRI antidepressant |
| Class group | CNS/Psych |
| Common use | depression, anxiety, PTSD |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Paroxetine used for?
• Major depressive disorder (MDD). • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, PTSD, GAD (depending on approval).
What drug class is Paroxetine?
Paroxetine is a SSRI antidepressant in the CNS/Psych group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Paroxetine
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightSomnolence or insomnia
- arrow_rightSexual dysfunction
- arrow_rightDry mouth
- arrow_rightSweating
Major interactions
- arrow_rightMAO inhibitors (contraindicated) → serotonin syndrome
- arrow_rightOther serotonergic drugs → serotonin syndrome
- arrow_rightPotent CYP2D6 inhibition: may increase levels of certain drugs (e.g., some beta-blockers, TCAs)
- arrow_rightNSAIDs/anticoagulants: ↑ bleeding risk
Is Paroxetine a controlled substance?
No. Paroxetine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
warning Boxed warning
Antidepressants increase risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults; monitor closely.
How to remember Paroxetine (PTCE mnemonic)
PAX-il PAYS the most withdrawal price — paroxe-TINE is the 'worst' SSRI: anticholinergic, sedation, weight gain, brutal discontinuation; NO pregnancy.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Paroxetine (Paxil) is an SSRI with strong discontinuation symptoms and the most anticholinergic effects of the class — taper when stopping.
Paroxetine FAQ
What is Paroxetine used for?
Paroxetine is used to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD. • Major depressive disorder (MDD). • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, PTSD, GAD (depending on approval).
What drug class is Paroxetine?
Paroxetine is a SSRI antidepressant (CNS/Psych group).
Is Paroxetine a controlled substance?
No. Paroxetine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Study guides that cover Paroxetine
Free, in-depth guides to the patterns behind this drug — no app needed.
Drug suffix cheat sheetthe suffix that gives away this drug's class
How to memorize the Top 200 drugsa method for locking in brand↔generic pairs
How to read a prescriptionevery field on a prescription, decoded
Pharmacy math cheat sheetthe five calculation types the PTCE asksSee all PTCE study guides or browse the full Top 200 drug list.
Drill Paroxetine the way the PTCE asks it
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Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Written and reviewed by the RxReflex Content Team. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).