DRUG	SUPPLIED	DOSE	COMMENTS
PAROXETINE (Paeds) (Paxil) Mechanism of action: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. Ref: 4, 44, 83, 238 Last update: 2021-08-03	Tablet: 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg Controlled release (CR) tablets: 12.5 mg, 25 mg	Children/Adolescents: Initial dose: 10 mg PO daily Increment: increase by 5 to 10 mg at weekly intervals Usual dose: 10 to 40 mg PO daily. Maximum: 60 mg daily	Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Effective in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Also used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder and depression. Randomized controlled trials failed to show paroxetine is superior to placebo in treatment of pediatric depression and treatment-emergent suicidality rates are higher than with other SSRIs in children/adolescents.   Children metabolize SSRIs more rapidly than adults and may require doses in the higher end of the dosing range. May take 4 weeks to see therapeutic effects. Common adverse effects: headache, nausea, dry mouth, sweating, tremor and impaired sexual function (adolescents/adults) Strong CYP 2D6 inhibitor. Do not suddenly stop long-term treatment due to risk of discontinuation syndrome (flu-like symptoms, dizziness, "electric-shock"� sensations). It is recommended to taper dose by ~25%/week. See fluoxetine for more information. Prescribers must be aware of warnings issued by Health Canada regarding the use of antidepressants in pediatric patients. Refer to the Health Canada website. Standard Prescription: paroxetine __mg PO ___ (frequency)