Seroxat
In brief
- In our pharmacy you can buy Seroxat (paroxetine) without a prescription, with delivery in 9–21 days throughout the United Kingdom and discreet, anonymous packaging.
- Seroxat is used to treat major depressive disorder, panic disorder, generalised anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, obsessive‑compulsive disorder (OCD) and post‑traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that increases serotonin levels by blocking the serotonin transporter (SERT).
- The usual dose for adults is 20 mg once daily for depression and many anxiety disorders (maintenance range 20–50 mg/day); panic disorder often starts at 10 mg and is titrated up to 40 mg; OCD commonly starts at 20 mg and may be increased to 40–60 mg/day. Elderly or those with hepatic/renal impairment typically start at 10 mg.
- Administered orally as tablets (10, 20, 30 mg) or oral suspension (10 mg/5 ml); usually taken once daily.
- Some patients notice initial symptom improvement within 1–2 weeks, but meaningful clinical benefit typically takes 4–6 weeks.
- Paroxetine has a plasma half‑life of about 21–24 hours, so its effect is maintained with once‑daily dosing (steady state reached in roughly one week); therapeutic benefit persists while treatment continues.
- Avoid or limit alcohol while taking Seroxat — alcohol can increase drowsiness, impair coordination and worsen side effects or mood symptoms.
- The most common side effect is nausea.
- Would you like to try Seroxat without a prescription?
Basic Seroxat information
- INN (international nonproprietary name): Paroxetine
- Brand names available in the United Kingdom: Seroxat (tablets, liquid oral suspension); generic paroxetine
- ATC code: N06AB05
- Forms and dosages: tablets 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg; oral suspension 20 mg/10 ml (10 mg/5 ml)
- Manufacturers in the United Kingdom: GSK (originator) and generic manufacturers
- Registration status in the United Kingdom: authorised by the MHRA; prescription-only medicine (POM)
- OTC / Rx classification: Prescription-only medicine (POM)
Legal status and availability in the UK
Seroxat is a prescription-only medicine (POM) in the UK.
In our online pharmacy, Seroxat is available without a prescription, with discreet delivery to the United Kingdom in 9–21 days.
Product basics
The INN for Seroxat is paroxetine. It belongs to the SSRI class (ATC code N06AB05). GSK is the original manufacturer; generic paroxetine is supplied by several manufacturers.
| Form | Dose strengths |
|---|---|
| Tablet | 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg |
| Oral suspension | 10 mg/5 ml |
The oral suspension is useful for patients with swallowing difficulties.
Indications and standard dosing for each condition
Licensed indications
Paroxetine is licensed for depression, panic disorder, generalised anxiety disorder, social anxiety, obsessive‑compulsive disorder and PTSD.
Starting and maintenance doses
| Indication | Typical start dose | Usual maintenance/max |
|---|---|---|
| Major depressive disorder | 20 mg once daily | 20–50 mg/day |
| Panic disorder | 10 mg once daily, titrate | 40 mg/day usual; 60 mg/day (max) |
| Generalised anxiety, social anxiety, PTSD | 20 mg once daily | 20–50 mg/day (max); follow prescriber |
| OCD | 20 mg once daily | 40 mg/day usual; 60 mg/day (max) |
Treatment duration
Treatment duration for depression and many anxiety disorders is typically a minimum of six to twelve months to reduce relapse risk.
OCD and panic disorder often require longer courses and careful review before dose reduction.
Paroxetine is not recommended for children and adolescents under 18 because of increased suicidality risk.
Dosage adjustments and special regimens
Elderly considerations
Start elderly patients at a lower dose, often 10 mg once daily.
Up‑titrate slowly and consider lower maximum doses because of hyponatraemia and reduced clearance risks.
Hepatic/renal impairment
Begin at a low dose such as 10 mg/day and titrate cautiously.
Maximum doses are commonly capped at 40 mg/day in significant liver or kidney impairment.
Paediatrics and titration
Use in children and adolescents is not routine; specialist supervision is required if considered.
When switching between SSRIs or from MAOIs ensure washout guidance is followed; allow a minimum two‑week gap after MAOI use.
Controlled‑release formulations can reduce early gastrointestinal side effects and may be considered when nausea is troublesome.
Contraindications and cautions
Absolute contraindications
Paroxetine must not be taken with pimozide or thioridazine due to serious cardiac risks.
Avoid concomitant or recent MAOI therapy within 14 days.
Known hypersensitivity to paroxetine or excipients is an absolute contraindication.
Relative cautions
Use caution in patients with epilepsy or a history of seizures.
Monitor patients with bipolar disorder for any switch to mania when on antidepressants.
Bleeding risk is increased when SSRIs are combined with NSAIDs or anticoagulants.
Elderly patients and those on diuretics have higher hyponatraemia risk.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding require an informed risk–benefit discussion with prescribers.
Drug interactions, CYP effects and monitoring
Major hazardous interactions
Concurrent MAOI use risks serotonin syndrome and is contraindicated.
Combining paroxetine with pimozide or thioridazine risks QT prolongation and arrhythmia and must be avoided.
SSRIs increase bleeding risk when taken with NSAIDs, antiplatelets or anticoagulants.
CYP2D6 inhibition and implications
Paroxetine is a moderate inhibitor of CYP2D6.
This can raise levels of tricyclic antidepressants and certain antipsychotics.
Paroxetine reduces conversion of tamoxifen to its active metabolite and may affect tamoxifen efficacy.
High-risk co-medicines
| High‑risk co‑med | Recommended action |
|---|---|
| MAOI | Do not co‑prescribe; allow 14‑day washout |
| Warfarin / INR‑influencing drugs | Monitor INR more frequently after starting or stopping paroxetine |
| Tamoxifen | Discuss alternative antidepressant if clinically possible |
Side effects profile and practical management
Common mild/moderate effects
Typical adverse effects include nausea, drowsiness, dry mouth and sweating.
Patients also commonly report dizziness, insomnia or daytime somnolence.
Sexual dysfunction, appetite changes and weight fluctuation are frequent longer‑term effects.
Serious adverse events
Hyponatraemia may present in elderly patients and requires prompt assessment.
Severe bleeding, serotonin syndrome, manic switch or emergent suicidal ideation are serious events needing urgent review.
Managing side effects
- Taking tablets with food may help if nausea occurs.
- Slow titration may help; discuss sexual side effects with the prescriber.
- Elderly patients should be watched for signs of hyponatraemia such as confusion or unsteadiness.
- Encourage Yellow Card reporting for suspected adverse reactions.
Comparative effectiveness and alternatives
How paroxetine compares
Paroxetine is an established SSRI with evidence across depression, panic disorder and OCD.
It is associated with a higher risk of discontinuation and withdrawal symptoms compared with some other SSRIs.
Sexual side effects are relatively common and may influence choice of alternative treatment.
When to choose alternatives
Sertraline is often preferred on NHS formularies for its tolerability and is commonly first line.
Fluoxetine has a longer half‑life and may be easier to discontinue without withdrawal.
Citalopram and escitalopram have fewer clinically significant CYP interactions.
Generic paroxetine is widely available; local formularies may recommend alternatives based on tolerability. Individual history and previous response matter when considering switching agents.
Storage and disposal
Store paroxetine at normal room temperature and protect from moisture and heat. Keep medicines in their original packaging to preserve batch and expiry information.
Returns and disposal
Return unused medicines to a pharmacy for safe disposal. Do not flush medicines down the toilet or sink.
Key counselling points
Essential points
Purpose: this medicine treats depression and certain anxiety disorders.
Expectations: benefit often appears in two to six weeks for mood and anxiety symptoms.
How to take it: once daily, at a consistent time, with or without food.
Missed dose instructions: take as soon as possible the same day; skip if close to the next dose; do not double up.
Overdose advice: seek urgent medical help; supportive care is the mainstay.
Lifestyle advice
- Limit alcohol, and avoid driving or using machinery until the effects are known.
- Discuss contraception and pregnancy planning with the prescriber if relevant.
Emergency red flags to advise
- New or worsening suicidal thoughts or behaviour — seek urgent review.
- Signs of serotonin syndrome (high temperature, agitation, rapid heart rate, muscle rigidity) — emergency care required.
- Severe allergic reaction, severe bleeding, or seizures — contact emergency services.
Special populations: pregnancy, breastfeeding, elderly, adolescents
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Paroxetine has been associated with teratogenicity signals in some reports; an informed risk–benefit discussion with the prescriber and obstetric services is required.
Breastfeeding decisions should balance drug transfer into milk against maternal need for treatment.
Elderly risks and monitoring
Elderly patients have increased risk of hyponatraemia and falls.
Start at low doses (for example 10 mg daily), up‑titrate slowly and monitor sodium and clinical status.
Children/adolescents
Not routinely recommended for children and adolescents because of increased suicidality risk.
If paroxetine is considered in this group, specialist oversight and close monitoring are mandatory.
Frequently asked questions
How long until it works? Expect mood or anxiety improvement in two to six weeks for most patients.
Can I drink alcohol? It is best to limit alcohol while taking paroxetine because of additive sedation.
What if I miss a dose? Take it the same day if remembered; skip if close to the next dose and do not double up.
What are serious side effects? Seek urgent care for severe allergic reactions, signs of serotonin syndrome, seizures or significant bleeding.
Can I switch to/from another SSRI? Discuss with the prescriber; observe appropriate washout periods for MAOIs and follow switching guidance.
Quick reference tables
| Indication | Start dose | Expected onset |
|---|---|---|
| Depression | 20 mg once daily | 2–6 weeks |
| Panic disorder | 10 mg once daily, titrate | 4–12 weeks |
| OCD | 20 mg once daily | Longer; may take several months |
Report suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card scheme.
Delivery across the United Kingdom
| City | Region | Delivery time |
|---|---|---|
| London | England | 9–21 days |
| Birmingham | West Midlands | 9–21 days |
| Manchester | Greater Manchester | 9–21 days |
| Glasgow | Scotland | 9–21 days |
| Leeds | West Yorkshire | 9–21 days |
| Liverpool | Merseyside | 9–21 days |
| Sheffield | South Yorkshire | 9–21 days |
| Edinburgh | Scotland | 9–21 days |
| Bristol | South West England | 9–21 days |
| Newcastle Upon Tyne | North East England | 9–21 days |
| Belfast | Northern Ireland | 9–21 days |
| Cardiff | Wales | 9–21 days |
| Norwich | East of England | 9–21 days |
