Paxil CR (Paroxetine HCl)

Type

Product

Manufacturer

Country

Dosage

Qty-Price (USD)

Type:

Product: Paxil CR Tablet

Manufacturer: GSK

Country: Canada

Dosage: 12.5 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Paxil CR Tablet

Manufacturer: GSK

Country: Canada

Dosage: 25 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Generic Equivalent of Paxil CR

Type

Product

Manufacturer

Country

Dosage

Qty-Price (USD)

Type:

Product: Paroxetine HCl Tablet

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: India

Dosage: 12.5 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Paroxetine HCl Tablet

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: India

Dosage: 25 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Type:

Product: Paroxetine HCl Tablet (Pexep CR - Intas)

Manufacturer: Generic

Country: India

Dosage: 37.5 mg

Qty-Price (USD):

Paxil CR Information

medically reviewed by Carol Hou (BSc. Pharm) on August 22, 2025.

A licensed pharmacist (Licensed Community Pharmacies Directory | College of Pharmacists of British Columbia) with over 20 years of experience in medication management, specifically medication safety, she has reviewed the information for accuracy and completeness.

Paxil CR and Paroxetine at CanadaPharmacyOnline

The brand name Paxil CR, manufactured by GSK, is available in Canada.

Generic paroxetine hydrochloride is sourced from manufacturers that meet applicable regulatory standards. The specific manufacturers of your dispensed medication may vary.

Important Information about Generic Paroxetine

Generic paroxetine hydrochloride contains the same active ingredients as brand-name Paxil CR and is required to meet the same safety, effectiveness, and quality standards. This means that it is designed to work in the same way as Paxil CR. Studies have shown that generic paroxetine is bioequivalent to brand-name Paxil CR, meaning they have similar absorption rates and reach similar concentrations in the bloodstream. However, individual responses to medication can vary due to factors such as metabolism, genetics, and other health conditions.

For more information about generic drug approval and bioequivalence, you can visit the FDA website: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/generic-drugs/generic-drug-facts.

Dosage:

The brand-name medication Paxil CR (paroxetine hydrochloride), an extended-release formulation, is available in the following strengths: 12.5 mg, 25 mg, and 37.5 mg.

The generic drug, paroxetine, is also widely available. It is important to note that the generic comes in two separate formulations:
• Immediate-release (IR), which is typically available in different strengths (e.g., 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg).
• Extended-release (ER), which is the direct generic equivalent of Paxil CR. These extended-release generic tablets are available in the same strengths as the brand name: 12.5 mg, 25 mg, and 37.5 mg.

Your doctor will determine the appropriate dose based on your individual needs and medical conditions.

Usage:

Paxil CR (paroxetine hydrochloride) is a controlled-release medication belonging to the class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is prescribed to treat various mood and anxiety disorders, including major depressive disorder (MDD), panic disorder (PD), premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and social anxiety disorder (SAD).

Mechanism of Action:
Paxil CR works by targeting a key neurotransmitter in the brain called serotonin, which plays a critical role in regulating mood. Nerve cells typically reabsorb serotonin after using it to transmit signals. As an SSRI, Paxil CR inhibits this reabsorption, thereby increasing the amount of serotonin available in the synaptic cleft (the space between nerve cells). This enhanced serotonin activity helps to improve mood and reduce the symptoms of conditions it is prescribed to treat. The controlled-release formulation ensures a gradual and steady delivery of the medication over 24 hours.

Take Paxil CR exactly as prescribed by your doctor, following the instructions in the product monograph in Canada. Consult your doctor for personalized guidance and safe use.

The information below summarizes some, but not all, potential side effects, risks, and interactions. Before taking Paxil CR, it is essential to discuss all possible side effects, risks, and interactions with your doctor or pharmacist.

Side Effects:

The information below outlines potential side effects of Paxil CR (paroxetine). It is not an exhaustive list, and individual reactions can vary.

Common side effects – The following are some common side effects of Paxil CR; other side effects may also occur. Contact your doctor promptly if any side effects are persistent, worsening, or concerning, or if you experience any other concerning symptoms.
• Decreased sex drive or sexual dysfunction (e.g., difficulty with orgasm or ejaculation)
• Diarrhea or Constipation
• Dizziness or Weakness
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Increased sweating
• Insomnia (trouble sleeping)
• Nausea
• Yawning

Other Potential Side Effects (less common):
• Blurred vision
• Changes in appetite or weight
• Heartburn or belching
• Nervousness or anxiety
• Pain or tenderness around the eyes and cheekbones
• Tremor (shaking)

Serious Side Effects: These are rare but potentially severe side effects. Seek immediate medical attention or call emergency services if you experience any signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
• Abnormal Bleeding or Bruising: Including nosebleeds or bleeding from the gums.
• Activation of Mania or Hypomania: Uncontrollable, racing thoughts, increased energy, and impulsive behavior.
• Allergic Reactions: Symptoms such as hives, rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Bone Fractures: Long-term use of SSRIs may be associated with an increased risk of bone fractures.
• Increased Risk of Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors: Especially in young adults (under 25), particularly at the beginning of treatment or after a change in dose.
• Low Sodium Levels (Hyponatremia): Symptoms may include confusion, weakness, or muscle cramps.
• Seizures
• Serotonin Syndrome: A potentially life-threatening condition that may include symptoms like agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, fever, muscle rigidity, and incoordination.

Contraindications:

The following is not an exhaustive list of contraindications. Before taking Paxil CR, it is crucial to discuss all your medical conditions, past and present, and all medications you are taking with your doctor or pharmacist.

Paxil CR should not be used if you have any of the following conditions or circumstances:
• Hypersensitivity: A known allergy or hypersensitivity to paroxetine or any other ingredient in Paxil CR.
• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): You must not take Paxil CR within 14 days of taking an MAOI. This includes MAOIs used for psychiatric conditions (e.g., phenelzine, isocarboxazid) and others like linezolid or methylene blue. Likewise, do not take an MAOI within 14 days of stopping Paxil CR.
• Pimozide or Thioridazine: Concurrent use with these medications is strictly contraindicated due to the risk of serious heart-related side effects.

Tell your doctor about all of your medical conditions, past and present, before starting Paxil CR. This is crucial because conditions can affect whether Paxil CR is right for you. These conditions may include, but are not limited to:
• A history of bleeding problems.
• A history of seizures or epilepsy.
• A personal or family history of bipolar disorder, mania, or hypomania.
• Angle-closure glaucoma.
• Kidney or liver impairment.

Drug Interactions:

Before taking Paxil CR, it is essential to discuss all potential risks and interactions with your doctor or pharmacist. For complete and up-to-date information, refer to the Paxil CR prescribing information | GSK at https://ca.gsk.com/media/6207/paxil-cr-pm-en.pdf.

Provide your doctor with a complete list of all your medications, including prescriptions, over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

Key Drug Interactions to be Aware Of:
• Increased Risk of Bleeding: Combining Paxil CR with medications that increase bleeding risk, such as blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and aspirin, can significantly raise your risk of bleeding or bruising.
• Reduced Drug Effectiveness: Paxil CR can interfere with how your body metabolizes other medications. For example, it may reduce the effectiveness of some cancer treatments, such as tamoxifen.
• Serious Heart-Related Interactions: Paxil CR should not be taken with certain medications due to the risk of serious side effects. This includes drugs like thioridazine and pimozide, which can cause severe heart rhythm problems.
• Serotonin Syndrome: The risk of a potentially life-threatening condition called Serotonin Syndrome is elevated when Paxil CR is used with other serotonin-increasing drugs. These include other antidepressants (especially MAOIs), certain opioids (e.g., tramadol), and the herbal supplement St. John's wort.

Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:

The use of Paxil CR during pregnancy or while breastfeeding requires a careful discussion with your doctor. This choice must weigh the potential risks to the fetus or infant against the significant risks of untreated maternal depression or anxiety.

Use during Pregnancy:
• First Trimester: Some studies have suggested a small, potential increase in the risk of certain fetal heart defects if the medication is taken in the first trimester. However, the overall absolute risk remains very low, and the evidence is not entirely conclusive.
• Late Pregnancy: Taking Paxil CR in the late stages of pregnancy can lead to a condition in the newborn called Neonatal Adaptation Syndrome, with temporary symptoms such as irritability, jitteriness, and feeding issues. There is also a slightly increased risk of a rare but serious lung condition in the newborn called Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn (PPHN).

Use during Breastfeeding:
Paroxetine is excreted into breast milk in small amounts. It is important to monitor the breastfed infant for potential adverse effects, such as irritability, poor feeding, drowsiness, or poor weight gain. While paroxetine may be considered in some cases, many healthcare providers prefer other antidepressants with lower milk transfer, such as sertraline or fluoxetine. The decision to use any medication while breastfeeding should be a shared one with your healthcare provider.

Frequently Asked Questions about Paxil CR at Canada Pharmacy Online:

Why is Paxil CR more affordable in Canada than in the United States?

Prescription drug prices, including Paxil CR, are generally lower in Canada than in the US due to a combination of factors, primarily government price regulations, differing market dynamics, and other economic considerations. In Canada, provincial and federal governments negotiate drug prices with pharmaceutical companies, which often results in lower costs compared to the U.S., where market forces play a more significant role. For more information, see the FAQs on Prescription Drug Importation from the Kaiser Family Foundation (KFF): https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/faqs-on-prescription-drug-importation/.

How much is the shipping?

Our shipping fee is a flat rate of $10.00 per order. Our pharmacy is committed to offering you the lowest prices on high-quality products.

How do I place an order with your pharmacy?

Ordering from us is very simple. You can purchase online or call Customer Service at 1866.920.3784; for more information or to learn about the ordering process, visit our How to Order page.

What is the difference between Paxil and Paxil CR?

Paxil CR is the longer-acting, controlled-release version of Paxil.

Is there a limit on the number of Paxil CR tablets I can order at one time?

CanadaPharmacyOnline.com can only dispense a maximum of a three-month supply of Paxil CR at one time, as per your doctor's prescription.

Can I buy Paxil CR over the counter from you?

No, Paxil CR requires a valid prescription from your doctor. We do not sell this product without a valid prescription.

Is there a generic for Paxil CR?

Yes, there is a generic alternative for this product, called Paroxetine HCI.

Blog Post:

7 Natural Anti-Depressants That Might Surprise You

Latest News:

Help improve antidepressant treatment for children and youth: Join a UM research study (article published on August 21, 2025)

Similar Drugs in the category of Antidepressant Drugs:

Wellbutrin XL Trintellix Lexapro Effexor XR Cymbalta

The information on this page is sourced from independent third parties contracted by CanadaPharmacyOnline. While we cannot guarantee its medical accuracy, we strongly recommend consulting a healthcare professional for personalized advice regarding medications or medical conditions.

Reviews From Real Customers