What is the brand name for Paroxetine?
The brand name for Paroxetine is Paxil.
PTCE 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).
Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Drill Paroxetine the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. 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).