Depression and anxiety disorders are complex conditions that affect each individual differently, so choosing the right medication is important. You deserve to find relief, but where do you start? Klarity can help. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you\u2019re taking Celexa<\/a> or Paxil or are wondering about switching from one to the other, we\u2019ve got you covered. In this comparison guide, we\u2019ll identify the similarities and differences between the two so you can have an informed discussion with your healthcare provider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n At Klarity, we understand that finding the right treatment for anxiety<\/a> and depression<\/a> can be overwhelming, which is why we offer access to convenient telehealth services to make it easier. Schedule an appointment<\/a>, and we\u2019ll connect you with a licensed healthcare professional who will determine the best medication for your symptoms. <\/p>\n\n\n\n This article discusses suicide, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or is in crisis, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline immediately at 800-273-8255.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n Paroxetine, sold under the brand name Paxil, is a medication used for treating depression. It is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which means it blocks certain brain receptors from reabsorbing serotonin. <\/p>\n\n\n\n By increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, SSRIs like Paxil can help to regulate mood, sleep, appetite, and energy levels. They can also improve overall well-being by reducing the symptoms of depression, such as low mood, difficulty concentrating, and low energy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Paxil is available in three forms: tablets, extended-release tablets, and a liquid suspension. Extended-release tablets are taken just once a day, differentiating them from standard tablets, which usually require multiple doses throughout the day. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Your provider will help you determine which form is right for you, depending on your condition and how you react to the potential side effects of Paxil. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The tablets come in 4 color-coded dosages as follows:<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you are prescribed the liquid suspension, it usually comes in a bottle that is 10mg\/5ml. The liquid is orange-flavored and can make taking Paxil easier if you often struggle with the taste of medicine. The normal dose of Paxil usually starts at 20 mg a day and increases to a maximum of 50 mg a day, based on your provider\u2019s advice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Paxil is classified by the FDA as an antidepressant. However, it can be effective in treating the following conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Generalized anxiety disorder can cause excessive worry, fear, or nervousness that is difficult to control. By increasing serotonin levels in the brain, Paxil can help regulate mood and reduce anxiety symptoms. It may also help improve sleep and reduce physical anxiety symptoms, such as rapid heartbeat, tremors, and muscle tension.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Depression is a mental health disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyable. It can also cause physical symptoms such as fatigue, changes in appetite and sleep patterns, and difficulty concentrating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Paxil works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, a chemical messenger that helps regulate mood and other functions in the body. By increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, Paxil can help to regulate mood and reduce depression symptoms.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a mental health condition that often results in intrusive thoughts and behaviors that disrupt daily life. Paxil can increase the levels of serotonin in the brain, which reduces these obsessive thoughts and compulsions by improving overall mood. <\/p>\n\n\n\n The cost of a 30-day supply of brand-name Paxil can be as high as $300, while a generic version of the medication, paroxetine, typically costs between $16 and $40 for the same amount. The exact cost may vary depending on your insurance coverage and the pharmacy you use. <\/p>\n\n\n\n It is common for Paxil to cause some moderate side effects, which can fade in just a few days or continue intermittently as you continue taking the medication. If your symptoms worsen or persist, contact your healthcare provider to discuss adjusting your dose or switching medications.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Here are some of the most common mild to moderate side effects:<\/p>\n\n\n\n In some rare cases, Paxil can cause more severe side effects. If you begin to experience any of the following symptoms, it is important to immediately contact your provider. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Because Paxil is an SSRI, individuals who take it are at risk for a very rare condition known as serotonin syndrome, which occurs when a person has too much serotonin in their body. If left untreated, serotonin syndrome can lead to more serious complications such as high fever, seizures, coma, and even death. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you experience any of these symptoms, you must contact your provider or seek medical attention immediately. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, there are some conditions that put you at a higher risk when you take Paxil. If you have any of the following conditions, speak to your provider before taking Paxil. <\/p>\n\n\n\n If you experience an increase in suicidal thoughts or impulses, seek help immediately by calling the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n Medications like Paxil can have adverse reactions to certain medications, so it is important to make your provider aware of any medications you already take, especially if they are one or more of the following. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Additionally, individuals who have had an addiction to narcotics should discuss alternatives to Paxil with their provider. <\/p>\n\n\n\t\t\n\n
\n\t \n<\/th> Paxil<\/th> Celexa<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n \n\t Drug Class<\/strong><\/td> Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)<\/td> Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n\t Brand \/ Generic Status<\/strong><\/td> Brand name for paroxetine
\n
\n<\/td>Brand name for citalopram<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n\t Form(s) of the Drug<\/strong><\/td> \u2022 Color-coded tablets
\n\u2022 Time-release tablets
\n\u2022 Orange-colored and flavored liquid suspension
\n<\/td>\u2022 Oval capsules
\n\u2022 Round tablets
\n\u2022 Clear, peppermint-flavored liquid suspension
\n
\nAll forms are immediate-release
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\t Standard Dosage<\/strong><\/td> Time-release tablets:
\n\u2022 37.5mg of paroxetine
\n
\nColor-coded tablets:
\n\u2022 Yellow: 10 mg
\n\u2022 Pink: 20 mg
\n\u2022 Blue: 30 mg
\n\u2022 Green: 40 mg
\n
\nLiquid suspension:
\n\u2022 5mg of suspension contains 10mg of paroxetine
\n<\/td>Capsules:
\n\u2022 30mg dose
\n
\nTablets:
\n\u2022 10 mg
\n\u2022 20 mg
\n\u2022 40 mg
\n
\nLiquid suspension:
\n\u2022 10mg of citalopram per dose
\n
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\t Conditions Treated<\/strong><\/td> FDA-approved uses:
\n\u2022 Major depression
\n
\nOff-label uses:
\n\u2022 Anxiety
\n\u2022 Panic disorder
\n\u2022 Insomnia
\n<\/td>FDA-approved uses:
\n\u2022 Major depressive disorder (MDD)
\n
\nOff-label uses:
\n\u2022 Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
\n\u2022 Binge eating disorder
\n\u2022 Alcohol use disorder
\n\u2022 Generalized anxiety disorder
\n\u2022 Panic disorder or PTSD
\n\u2022 Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
\n\u2022 Postmenopausal flushing
\n\u2022 Premature ejaculation
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\t Cost<\/strong><\/td> Generic form (paroxetine):
\n\u2022 $4 to $25 for a 30-day supply
\n
\nBrand-name:
\n\u2022 $280 for a 30-day supply
\n<\/td>Generic form (citalopram):
\n\u2022 $4.50 to $19 for a 30-day supply
\n
\nBrand-name:
\n\u2022 $4 for 30-day supply*
\n
\n*With coupon codes or insurance
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\t Side-Effects<\/strong><\/td> Common side effects:
\n\u2022 Changes in vision
\n\u2022 Weakness, drowsiness, or dizziness
\n\u2022 Sweating or shaking
\n\u2022 Anxiety
\n\u2022 Insomnia
\n\u2022 Loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting
\n\u2022 Diarrhea or constipation
\n\u2022 Dry mouth
\n\u2022 Infections
\n\u2022 Headaches
\n\u2022 Decreased sex drive or impotence
\n\u2022 Abnormal ejaculation or difficulty orgasming
\n
\nSerious side effects:
\n\u2022 Racing thoughts
\n\u2022 Decreased need for sleep
\n\u2022 Unusual risk-taking behaviors
\n\u2022 Extreme feelings of happiness or sadness
\n\u2022 Being more talkative than usual
\n\u2022 Blurred vision or tunnel vision
\n\u2022 Eye pain, swelling, or seeing halos around lights
\n\u2022 Bone pain, tenderness, swelling, or bruising
\n\u2022 Changes in weight or appetite
\n\u2022 Coughing up blood or bleeding from your nose, mouth, or rectum
\n\u2022 Unusual vaginal bleeding
\n\u2022 Stiff or rigid muscles
\n\u2022 High fever, sweating, tremors, or fainting
\n\u2022 Fast, uneven heartbeat
\n\u2022 Headaches
\n\u2022 Confusion or slurred speech
\n\u2022 Severe weakness, lost coordination, or feeling unsteady
\n
\n<\/td>Common side effects:
\n\u2022 Nausea or GI upset
\n\u2022 Dry mouth
\n\u2022 Changes in appetite
\n\u2022 Drowsiness or fatigue
\n\u2022 Increased sweating
\n\u2022 Blurred vision
\n
\nSerious side effects:
\n\u2022 Worsening depression
\n\u2022 Suicidal ideation
\n\u2022 Serotonin syndrome
\n\u2022 Rapid heart rate and high blood pressure
\n\u2022 High fever, resulting in increased sweating, shivering, or goosebumps
\n\u2022 Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
\n\u2022 Agitation or restlessness
\n\u2022 Loss of muscle coordination or uncontrollable muscle twitching or rigidity
\n\u2022 Diarrhea
\n\u2022 Headache
\n\u2022 Dilated pupils
\n\u2022 Confusion or altered consciousness
\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n\n\t Warnings For Use<\/strong><\/td> Contraindicated conditions:
\n\u2022 Bipolar disorder
\n\u2022 History of suicide attempts
\n\u2022 Liver or kidney problems
\n\u2022 Bleeding problems
\n\u2022 Low sodium in the blood
\n\u2022 Peptic ulcer disease
\n\u2022 Seizure disorders
\n\u2022 Thyroid disease
\n\u2022 Angle-closure type glaucoma
\n\u2022 Pregnancy or breastfeeding
\n
\nAdverse drug interactions:
\n\u2022 Thioridazine
\n\u2022 Clopidogrel
\n\u2022 NSAIDs
\n\u2022 Warfarin
\n\u2022 Aspirin
\n\u2022 Atomoxetine
\n\u2022 Phenothiazines
\n\u2022 Pimozide,
\n\u2022 Risperidone
\n\u2022 Tamoxifen
\n\u2022 Tetrabenazine
\n\u2022 Antiarrhythmic medications
\n\u2022 TCA antidepressants
\n\u2022 Antihistamines
\n\u2022 Sleep aids
\n\u2022 Muscle relaxants
\n\u2022 Opiate-based pain relievers or cough suppressants
\n\u2022 Water pills (may cause salt imbalance)
\n\u2022 MAOIs may cause a fatal reaction
\n\u2022 Alcohol
\n\u2022 Marijuana
\n
\n<\/td>Adverse drug reactions:
\n\u2022 MDMA
\n\u2022 St. John's Wort
\n\u2022 ADHD medications, such as Adderall
\n\u2022 Antipsychotic medications
\n\u2022 Tricyclic antidepressants
\n\u2022 Buspar
\n\u2022 Some migraine medications
\n\u2022 Lithium
\n\u2022 Antiplatelet and anticoagulant medications
\n\u2022 MAOIs
\n\u2022 Drugs that affect heart rhythm
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\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nWhat is Paxil?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Paxil Forms and Doses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Conditions Paxil Treats<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Anxiety<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Depression<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
OCD<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Paxil Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Paxil Side Effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Paxil Warnings For Use<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Paxil Interactions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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