Clinical uses of Paroxetine: an underutilized drug by Physicians

Paroxetine has been introduced in 1993 used for the treatment of depression, panic, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD) and other related disorders. Paroxetine has the strongest inhibition of serotonin uptake but is less specific than other SSRIs. The FDA approval in adult population are Major depressive disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, posttraumatic stress disorder. The systemic review with literatures about the clinical uses, pharmacokoinetic properties has been discussed. Its safety especially in paediatric population, various adverse effects, ACOG guidelines, FDA black box warnings are reviewed. Discontinuation reaction of Paroxetine and various adverse reactions are largely unknown to general practioners. In India this drug has been restricted to prescriptions of specialists only which limit the beneficial effects of this molecule to larger population. More awareness is required to extend benefits to general population as it is getting newer approval including use to reduce post menopausal hot flashes.