paroxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed in the treatment of mental depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorders, and anxiety disorders, including social anxiety and general anxiety. Unlabeled uses include treatment of impulse control disorders, premenstrual syndrome, and vasomotor symptoms of menopause. ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: It should not be given to patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors. Caution is advised in administering the drug to patients with a history of drug abuse, mania, seizures, suicidal tendencies, or kidney or liver disease. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: The side effects most often reported include decreased libido and ejaculatory disturbances, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, abdominal pain, flatulence, changes in appetite, and muscle weakness. Paroxetine may also cause SIADH and/or hyponatremia and lead to or exacerbate coagulation disturbances because of impairment of platelet aggregation.
