Paroxetine 7.5 mg Capsule, 30-count — NDC 43547-409-03 (Billing 43547-0409-03)
This is a package of 30 capsules of Paroxetine 7.5 mg Capsule from Solco Healthcare LLC, marketed since Aug 2017 and currently FDA-listed; retail pharmacies pay about $2.62 per capsule (NADAC). It is this product's only package size.
Identity & classification
Regulatory identifiers FDA, NLM and CMS codes for this package
Drug-database identifiers Medi-Span GPI and First Databank GCN / HICL / AHFS classification
- GSN (GCN sequence number): 071167
- GCN: 34876
- GPI-14 (Medi-Span): 62226060300110
- HICL (First Databank): 025796
- AHFS class code: 28:16.04.20
- RxCUI (RxNorm): 1430122
Where does this data come from?
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 1, 2026
- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 1, 2026
- RxNorm (NLM RxNav) · catalog refreshed Oct 1, 2026
- Medi-Span GPI (licensed)
- First Databank (licensed) · refreshed Oct 1, 2026
RxNorm drug class
This medicine belongs to the Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor class.
Where does this data come from?
- RxClass (NLM) · catalog refreshed Oct 1, 2026
Clinical
Paroxetine is used to treat depression, panic disorder (sudden, unexpected attacks of extreme fear and worry about these attacks), social anxiety disorder (extreme fear of interacting with others or performing in front of others that interferes with normal life), obsessive-compulsive disorder (bothersome thoughts that won't go away and the need to perform certain actions over and over), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD; excessive worrying that is difficult to control), and posttraumatic stress disorder (disturbing psychological symptoms that develop after a frightening experience). Paroxetine...
Read the full MedlinePlus article ↗- It depends on the product. Tablets and oral suspension treat depression, OCD, panic disorder, social anxiety, generalized anxiety, and PTSD in adults. Extended-release tablets trea...
- Take it once a day, usually in the morning, with or without food. The menopause capsule is taken at bedtime. Swallow extended-release tablets whole, and shake the suspension well....
- The most common are nausea, sleepiness, dry mouth, sweating, constipation or diarrhea, dizziness, trouble sleeping, and sexual side effects. Tell me or your doctor if they're bothe...
- Yes. Never combine it with MAOIs, thioridazine, or pimozide. Be careful with other serotonin-affecting drugs like triptans, tramadol, or St. John's Wort, and with aspirin, NSAIDs,...
Patient education
Supplement & herbal interactions
Some supplements/herbs that may interact with Paroxetine — tap one for details:
Paroxetine may be associated with lower levels of 1 nutrient — worth a chat with your pharmacist, not a cause for alarm.
Where does this data come from?
- MedlinePlus (NLM) · refreshed Oct 1, 2026
- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 1, 2026
Ask a licensed pharmacist directly — free, answered by our team.
Pricing
A drug doesn't have one price. Each row is a different public payment system, and none is what you'd pay at the counter — that depends on your insurance. The ⓘ on each row explains what it measures.
| Price system | Per ea | Per package |
|---|---|---|
| Retail pharmacies payNADAC · weekly | $2.622 | $78.67 / 30 capsules |
| Medicaid paysCMS SDUD · 12 mo | $2.87 | $85.97 / 30 capsules |
| Medicare drug plans payPart D · Q2 2026 | $3.68 | $110.54 / 30 capsules |
Where does this data come from?
- CMS NADAC weekly file · file of Sep 30, 2026
- CMS ASP pricing files · refreshed Sep 20, 2026
- CMS Medicaid State Drug Utilization Data · through Q1 2026
- CMS Part D plan pricing files · refreshed Sep 24, 2026
- VA National Acquisition Center price file
Packaging — all sizes for this product
| Package NDC | Description | Marketing start | Marketing end | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 43547-0409-03 You're viewing this Main listing | 30 CAPSULE in 1 BOTTLE | 2017-08-15 | — | Active |
Therapeutic equivalents
| Product | Labeler | Pack | NADAC/unit | TE | Status | Price vs. this |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Paroxetine 7.5 mg 00574-0279-30 | Padagis | 30 capsules | $2.622 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Paroxetine 7.5 mgthis 43547-0409-03 | Solco | 30 capsules | $2.622 | AB | Availability likely | — |
| Brisdelle 7.5 mg 83107-0027-30 | Legacy | 30 capsules | — | AB | FDA listed | — |
Where does this data come from?
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 1, 2026
- FDA Orange Book · refreshed Sep 3, 2026
- CMS NADAC weekly file · file of Sep 30, 2026
Availability & generic status
This product is an FDA-approved generic. Other versions of the same drug are listed under Therapeutic equivalents, least expensive first.
Where does this data come from?
- FDA Orange Book · refreshed Sep 3, 2026
What it looks like
Where does this data come from?
- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 1, 2026
Inactive Ingredients / Excipients
Inactive ingredients, also called excipients, are components of the drug product other than the active ingredient. They may include fillers, dyes, coatings, preservatives, flavors, or other formulation ingredients.
💡 Tap an ingredient (hover on desktop) to see what it is and why it’s used.
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UNII L11K75P92J
A mineral salt made from calcium and phosphate. It acts as a filler and binder in tablets to add bulk and help hold the medicine together in solid form.
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UNII XM0M87F357
A dark iron oxide compound that gives medicines their black or dark color. It's used as a colorant in tablets and capsules to help identify the product and make it visually distinctive.
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UNII 2G86QN327L
Gelatin is a protein derived from animal collagen, commonly used in medicines as a gelling agent and capsule material. It helps create soft or hard capsule shells that hold and release medication, and can also thicken liquid formulations.
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UNII 70097M6I30
Magnesium stearate is a salt made from magnesium and stearic acid, a fatty substance. It's used in tablets and capsules as a lubricant and glidant to help ingredients flow smoothly during manufacturing and prevent sticking.
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UNII WZH3C48M4T
Potassium hydroxide is a strong alkaline chemical used in medicines to adjust and maintain the pH level of liquid formulations, helping keep the product stable and the active ingredients effective.
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UNII 6DC9Q167V3
Propylene glycol is a clear liquid derived from petroleum or vegetable sources. It acts as a solvent, humectant, and preservative in medicines, helping dissolve active ingredients and maintain product stability.
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UNII 46N107B71O
Shellac is a natural resin secreted by the lac beetle. It's used as a coating on tablets and capsules to control how quickly the medicine dissolves and to improve appearance and stability.
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UNII 5856J3G2A2
A starch-based powder made from potatoes and processed with sodium. It acts as a disintegrant, helping the tablet or capsule break apart quickly in the stomach so the medicine can be absorbed.
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UNII 15FIX9V2JP
Titanium dioxide is a bright white mineral powder commonly used as a colorant and opacifying agent. It makes pills and tablets white or lighter in color and helps make coatings non-transparent.
9 inactive ingredients listed in the exact product block matched to this NDC.
Where does this data come from?
ingredient classCode="IACT" elements from the exact product block matched by this NDC. Label-section narrative from DailyMed / the openFDA label index is shown separately when available.- FDA label on DailyMed · label index refreshed Oct 1, 2026
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 1, 2026
Inactive ingredient FAQ
Are inactive ingredients the same for every manufacturer?
Why might an inactive ingredient be missing?
Can inactive ingredients matter?
Manufacturer & labeler
Where does this data come from?
- FDA openFDA NDC Directory · synced Oct 1, 2026
- Drugs@FDA
Full prescribing information FDA SPL
🚨 Boxed Warning ▾
WARNING: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in pediatric and young adult patients in short-term trials for the treatment of major depressive disorder and other psychiatric disorders. Because paroxetine is an SSRI, closely monitor paroxetine-treated patients closely for emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] . Paroxetine is not approved for use in any psychiatric condition or in pediatric and young adult patients [see Indications and Usage ( 1 ) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 )] .
WARNING: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Antidepressants, including selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in pediatric and young adult patients with major depressive disorder and other psychiatric disorder. Because paroxetine is an SSRI, closely monitor patients for clinical worsening and for emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Paroxetine is not approved for use in pediatric and young adult patients ( 5.1 ).
🎯 Indications and Usage ▾
1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Paroxetine capsules are indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms (VMS) associated with menopause. Limitations of Use : Paroxetine capsules are not indicated for the treatment of any psychiatric condition. Paroxetine capsules have a lower recommended paroxetine dosage than that used to treat major depressive disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
The safety and effectiveness of the lower paroxetine capsules dosage have not been established for any psychiatric condition. Patients who require paroxetine for treatment of a psychiatric condition should discontinue paroxetine capsules and initiate a paroxetine-containing product that is indicated for such use. Paroxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause (VMS) ( 1 ) Limitations of Use : Paroxetine capsules are not indicated for the treatment of any psychiatric condition ( 1 )
⏱️ Dosage and Administration ▾
2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • The recommended dosage of paroxetine capsules is 7.5 mg once daily, at bedtime ( 2.1 )
2.1Recommended Dosage The recommended oral dosage of paroxetine capsules for the treatment of moderate to severe VMS associated with menopause is 7.5 mg once daily, at bedtime, with or without food [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] .
2.2Use of Paroxetine Capsules Before or After a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor Wait at least 14 days after discontinuation of a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) before initiating therapy with paroxetine capsules. Conversely, allow at least 14 days after stopping paroxetine capsules before starting an MAOI [see Contraindications ( 4.1 ), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) and Drug Interactions ( 7.3 )] .
💊 Dosage Forms and Strengths ▾
3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Paroxetine capsules are available as 7.5 mg white opaque capsules printed with “544” in black ink on the cap and “7.5 mg” in black ink on the body. Each capsule contains 9.69 mg of paroxetine mesylate equivalent to 7.5 mg paroxetine base. Capsules: 7.5 mg ( 3 )
⛔ Contraindications ▾
4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Paroxetine capsules are contraindicated in patients: • Taking, or within 14 days of stopping, MAOIs (including the MAOIs linezolid and intravenous methylene blue) because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ), Drug Interaction ( 7 )] . • Taking thioridazine because of risk of QT prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ), Drug Interaction ( 7 )] . • Taking pimozide because of risk of QT prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 ), Drug Interaction ( 7 )] . • With known hypersensitivity (e.g., anaphylaxis, angioedema, Stevens-Johnson syndrome) to paroxetine or to any of the inactive ingredients in paroxetine capsules [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] .
Who are or become pregnant because menopausal VMS does not occur during pregnancy and paroxetine capsules may cause fetal harm [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.1 )] . • Concurrent use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) or use within 14 days of MAOI use ( 2.2 , 4.1 , 5.2 , 7.3 ) • Use with thioridazine ( 4.2 , 7.1 ) • Use with pimozide ( 4.3 , 7.1 ) • Hypersensitivity to any ingredient in paroxetine capsules ( 4.4 ) • Pregnancy ( 4.5 , 8.1 )
⚠️ Warnings and Cautions ▾
5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Suicidality: Monitor for suicidality or unusual changes in behavior ( 5.1 ) • Serotonin Syndrome: Paroxetine capsules can cause serotonin syndrome with increased risk when co-administered with other serotonergic agents, but also when taken alone. If it occurs, discontinue paroxetine capsules and serotonergic agents and initiate supportive measures ( 5.2 , 7.3 ) • Tamoxifen: Efficacy of tamoxifen may be reduced when administered concomitantly with paroxetine capsules ( 5.3 , 7.1 ) • Abnormal Bleeding: Caution patients about the risk of bleeding associated with the concomitant use of paroxetine capsules and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), aspirin, or other drugs that affect coagulation ( 5.4 , 7.1 ) • Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Angle closure glaucoma has occurred in patients who have untreated anatomically narrow angles and who are treated with antidepressants.
( 5.5 ) • Hyponatremia: Can occur in association with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) (5.6) • Bone Fracture: Epidemiological studies have reported an association between SSRI treatment and fractures (5.7) • Activation of Mania/Hypomania: Screen for bipolar disorder and monitor for mania/ hypomania (5.8) • Seizures: Use cautiously in patients with a history of seizures or with conditions that potentially lower the seizure threshold (5.9) • Sexual Dysfunction: Paroxetine use may cause symptoms of sexual dysfunction.
( 5.10 )
5.1Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Adolescents and Young Adults SSRIs increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in pediatric and young adult patients in short-term trials for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders - paroxetine capsules are not approved for use in any psychiatric condition or in pediatric and young adult patients [see Indications and Usage ( 1 ) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4 )] . There is limited information regarding suicidal thoughts and behaviors in females who use paroxetine capsules for treatment of moderate to severe VMS associated with menopause.
The paroxetine capsules trials excluded females with a presence or history of previous psychiatric disorders. Monitor all paroxetine capsules-treated patients for any emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially during the initial few months of paroxetine capsules therapy. Counsel family members to monitor for changes in behavior and to alert the health care provider if such changes occur.
Consider discontinuing paroxetine capsules in patients who experience emergent suicidal thoughts or behaviors or symptoms that might be precursors to suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially if these symptoms are severe, abrupt in onset, or were not part of the patient’s presenting symptoms.
5.2Serotonin Syndrome Paroxetine capsules can precipitate serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. The risk is increased with concomitant use of other serotonergic agents (including triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, tramadol, meperidine, methadone, lithium, tryptophan, buspirone, amphetamines, and St. John’s Wort) and with drugs that impair metabolism of serotonin, i.e., monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) [see Contraindications ( 4 ), Drug Interactions ( 7.3 )] .
Serotonin syndrome can also occur when paroxetine capsules are used alone. Serotonin syndrome symptoms may include mental status changes (e.g., agitation, hallucinations, delirium, and coma), autonomic instability (e.g., tachycardia, labile blood pressure, dizziness, diaphoresis, flushing, hyperthermia), neuromuscular symptoms (e.g., tremor, rigidity, myoclonus, hyperreflexia, incoordination), and/or gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea). The concomitant use of paroxetine capsules with MAOIs is contraindicated.
Do not start paroxetine capsules in a patient who is being treated with MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue. All reports… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🤒 Adverse Reactions ▾
6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following serious adverse reactions are discussed elsewhere in labeling: • Suicidality [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] • Serotonin syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 )] • Abnormal bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] • Angle-Closure Glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] • Hyponatremia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] • Bone Fracture [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] • Mania/Hypomania [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] • Seizure [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9 )] The most common adverse reactions (≥ 2%) reported in clinical trials were: headache, fatigue, and nausea/vomiting (6.1) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Solco Healthcare LLC at 1-866-257-2597 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch.
6.1Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot directly be compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The data described below reflect exposure to paroxetine in the following randomized, placebo-controlled trials for the treatment of moderate to severe VMS associated with menopause [see Clinical Studies ( 14 )]: (1) one 8-week Phase 2 trial, (2) one 12-week Phase 3 trial and (3) one 24-week Phase 3 trial.
In these trials, a total of 635 postmenopausal females received paroxetine 7.5 mg administered orally once daily and 641 postmenopausal females received placebo. In these trials, 68% were White, 30% were Black or African American (30%), and 2% were other races, with a mean age of 55 years (range 40 to 73 years). Postmenopausal females with a history of suicidal ideation or suicidal behavior were excluded from these trials.
Serious Adverse Reactions: In the pooled Phase 2 and Phase 3 trials, three paroxetine-treated patients reported a serious adverse reaction of suicidal ideation and one paroxetine-treated patient reported a serious adverse reaction of suicide attempt. There were no serious adverse reactions of suicidal ideation or suicide attempt reported among the placebo-treated patients. Adverse Reactions Leading to Study Discontinuation : A total of 4.7% of females taking paroxetine capsules discontinued from the clinical trials due to an adverse reaction, compared to 3.7% of females on placebo; the most frequent adverse reactions leading to discontinuation among paroxetine-treated females were: abdominal pain (0.3%), attention disturbances (0.3%), headache (0.3%), and suicidal ideation (0.3%).
Common Adverse Reactions : Overall, based on investigators’ determinations about what events were likely to be drug-related, about 20% of postmenopausal females treated with paroxetine capsules reported at least 1 adverse reaction in the three controlled trials. The most common adverse reactions (≥ 2% and at a higher incidence in paroxetine capsules-treated females compared to placebo-treated females) reported in these trials were headache, fatigue/malaise/lethargy, and nausea/vomiting. Of these commonly reported adverse reactions, nausea occurred primarily within the first 4 weeks of paroxetine treatment and fatigue occurred primarily within the first week of paroxetine treatment, and decreased in frequency with continued therapy.
The adverse reactions that occurred in ≥ 2% of paroxetine-treated patients and at a higher incidence in paroxetine-treated females compared to placebo-treated females are shown in Table 1 for the pooled Phase 2 and Phase 3 trials. Table 1: Incidence of Common Adverse Reactions in the Phase 2 and Phase 3 Trials of Postmenopausal Females with Moderate to Severe VMS 1 Incidence n (%) Paroxetine Capsules (n = 635) Placebo (n = 641) Headache 40 (6.3) 31 (4.8) Fatigue, malaise, lethargy 31 (4.9) 18 (2.8) Nausea, vomiting 27 (4.3) 15 (2.3) 1 ≥ 2% Paroxetine-treated patients and at a higher incidence in paroxetine-treated females com… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🔄 Drug Interactions ▾
7 DRUG INTERACTIONS Paroxetine is a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor. Co-administration of paroxetine capsules can alter concentrations of other drugs that are metabolized by CYP2D6. Consider potential drug interactions prior to and during therapy ( 5.3 , 7.1 , 7.3 ). See Full Prescribing Information for a list of clinically significant drug interactions ( 7.1 , 7.2 , 7.3 )
7.1Potential for Paroxetine Capsules to Affect Other Drugs Paroxetine is a strong CYP2D6 inhibitor. Clinical drug interaction studies have been performed with substrates of CYP2D6 and show that paroxetine can inhibit the metabolism of drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Table 2 contains examples of drugs with a metabolism that may be affected by concomitant use with paroxetine capsules.
Table 2 Effects of Paroxetine on Other Drugs Concomitant Drug Name Effect of Paroxetine on Other Drugs Clinical Recommendations Thioridazine Increased plasma concentrations of thioridazine Potential QTc prolongation Concomitant use of thioridazine and paroxetine capsules is contraindicated. Pimozide Increased plasma concentrations of pimozide. Potential QTc prolongation Concomitant use of pimozide and paroxetine capsules is contraindicated.
Tamoxifen Reduced plasma concentrations of active tamoxifen metabolite Consider avoiding concomitant use of tamoxifen and paroxetine capsules. Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCA) (e.g., Desipramine) Increased plasma concentrations and elimination half-life Plasma TCA concentrations may need to be monitored and the TCA dosage may need to be reduced if a TCA is used concomitantly with paroxetine capsules. Monitor tolerability.
Risperidone Increased plasma concentrations of risperidone A lower risperidone dosage may be necessary (see the risperidone Prescribing Information for). Monitor tolerability. Atomoxetine Increased exposure of atomoxetine A lower atomoxetine dosage of may be necessary (see atomoxetine Prescribing Information for).
Monitor tolerability. Drugs Highly Bound to Plasma Protein (e.g., Warfarin) Increased free plasma concentrations The warfarin dosage may need to be reduced. Monitor tolerability and the International Normalized Ratio.
Digoxin Decreased plasma concentrations of digoxin The digoxin dosage of may need to be increased. Monitor digoxin concentrations and clinical effect. Theophylline Increased plasma concentrations of theophylline The theophylline dosage of may need to be decreased.
Monitor theophylline concentrations and tolerability. Use caution with concomitant use of paroxetine capsules with other drugs that are metabolized by CYP2D6, including nortriptyline, amitriptyline, imipramine, desipramine, fluoxetine, phenothiazines, risperidone, and Type 1C antiarrhythmics (e.g., propafenone, flecainide, and encainide).
7.2Potential for Other Drugs to Affect Paroxetine Capsules The metabolism and pharmacokinetics of paroxetine may be affected by the induction and inhibition of drug metabolizing enzymes such as CYP2D6. Table 3 contains a list of drugs that may affect the pharmacokinetics of paroxetine capsules when administered concomitantly [see Clinical Pharmacology ( 12.3 )] . Table 3 Effects of Other Drugs on Paroxetine Concomitant Drug Name Effect of Concomitant Drug on Paroxetine Clinical Recommendations Phenobarbital Decreased paroxetine exposure Monitor clinical effect of paroxetine capsules.
No paroxetine capsules dosage adjustment is needed. Phenytoin Decreased paroxetine exposure Fosamprenavir/ Ritonavir Decreased plasma concentration of paroxetine Cimetidine Increased plasma concentration of paroxetine Use caution if paroxetine capsules are used concomitantly with other drugs that inhibit CYP2D6 (e.g., quinidine).
7.3Other Potentially Significant Drug Interactions Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors Serious adverse reactions such as serotonin syndrome have been reported in patients treated with a SSRI and a concomitant monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI), in patients started on an SSRI who re… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
👥 Use in Specific Populations ▾
8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS
8.1Pregnancy Risk Summary Paroxetine capsules are contraindicated in pregnant females and not indicated for use in pre-menopausal females. Based on epidemiologic and animal studies, paroxetine can cause fetal harm. Based on data from published observational studies, exposure to SSRIs, particularly in the month before delivery, has been associated with a less than 2-fold increase in the risk of postpartum hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] .
Paroxetine is associated with a less than 2-fold increase in cardiovascular malformations when administered to a pregnant female during the first trimester. While individual epidemiological studies on the association between paroxetine use and cardiovascular malformations have reported inconsistent findings, some meta-analyses of epidemiological studies have identified an increased risk of cardiovascular malformations (see Data ). There are risks of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) (see Data) and/or poor neonatal adaptation with exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), including paroxetine capsules, during pregnancy.
No evidence of treatment related malformations was observed in animal reproduction studies, when paroxetine was administered during the period of organogenesis at doses up to 50 mg/kg/day in rats and 6 mg/kg/day in rabbits. These doses are approximately 64 times (rat) and less than 16 times (rabbit) the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of paroxetine capsules (7.5 mg) on an mg/m 2 basis. When paroxetine was administered to female rats during the last trimester of gestation and continued through lactation, there was an increase in the number of pup deaths during the first four days of lactation.
This effect occurred at a dose of 1 mg/kg/day which is 1.3 times the MRHD on an mg/m 2 basis ( see Data ). Data Human Data: Published epidemiological studies on the association between first trimester paroxetine use and cardiovascular malformations have reported inconsistent results; however, meta-analyses of population-based cohort studies published between 1996-2017 indicate a less than 2-fold increased risk for overall cardiovascular malformations. Specific cardiac malformations identified in two meta-analyses include approximately 2 to 2.5-fold increased risk for right ventricular outflow tract defects.
One meta-analysis also identified an increased risk (less than 2-fold) for bulbus cordis anomalies and anomalies of cardiac septal closure, and an increased risk for atrial septal defects (pooled OR 2.38, 95% CI 1.14-4.97). Important limitations of the studies included in these meta-analyses include potential confounding by indication, depression severity, and potential exposure misclassification. Exposure to SSRIs, particularly later in pregnancy, may have an increased risk for PPHN.
PPHN occurs in 1-2 per 1,000 live births in the general population and is associated with substantial neonatal morbidity and mortality. Animal Data : Reproduction studies were performed at doses up to 50 mg/kg/day in rats and 6 mg/kg/day in rabbits administered during organogenesis. These doses are approximately 64 times (rat) and less than 16 times (rabbit) MRHD of paroxetine capsules (7.5 mg) on an mg/m 2 basis.
These studies have revealed no evidence of malformations. However, in rats, there was an increase in pup deaths during the first 4 days of lactation when dosing occurred during the last trimester of gestation and continued throughout lactation. This effect occurred at a dose of 1 mg/kg/day which is 1.3 times the MRHD on an mg/m 2 basis.
The no effect dose for rat pup mortality was not determined. The cause of these deaths is not known.
8.4Pediatric Use Safety and effectiveness of paroxetine capsules in pediatric patients have not been established; paroxetine capsules are not indicated in the pediatric population.
8.5Geriatric Use Clinical trials of paroxetine capsules did not include sufficient number… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🆘 Overdosage ▾
10 OVERDOSAGE The following have been reported with paroxetine tablets overdose: • Seizures, which may be delayed, and altered mental status including coma. • Cardiovascular toxicity, which may be delayed, including QRS and QTc interval prolongation. Hypertension most commonly seen, but rarely can see hypotension alone or with co-ingestants including alcohol. • Serotonin syndrome (patients with a multiple drug overdosage with other pro-serotonergic drugs may have a higher risk). Consider contacting the Poison Help Line (1-800-221-2222) or a medical toxicologist for overdose management recommendations.
🧬 Clinical Pharmacology ▾
11 DESCRIPTION Paroxetine is an orally administered selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) for the treatment of moderate to severe VMS associated with menopause. It is identified chemically as (-)- trans -4R- (4’-fluorophenyl) - 3S - [(3’, 4’-methylenedioxyphenoxy) methyl] piperidine mesylate and has the empirical formula of C 19 H 20 FNO 3 •CH 3 SO 3 H. The molecular weight is 425.5 (329.4 as free base).
The structural formula is: The mesylate salt of paroxetine is an odorless, white to off-white crystalline powder, having a melting point range of 148 o to 149 o C and a solubility of more than 1 g/mL in water. Each white opaque capsule contains 9.69 mg of paroxetine mesylate equivalent to 7.5 mg paroxetine base. Inactive ingredients consist of: anhydrous dibasic calcium phosphate, black iron oxide, gelatin, magnesium stearate, potassium hydroxide, propylene glycol, shellac, sodium starch glycolate, and titanium dioxide.
Figure 1 structural formula
📦 How Supplied / Storage and Handling ▾
16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING Paroxetine capsules are available as 7.5 mg white opaque capsules printed with “544” in black ink on the cap and “7.5 mg” in black ink on the body. NDC 43547-409-03, bottle of 30 Store at 20 o C to 25 o C (68 o F to 77 o F); excursions permitted to 15 o C to 30 o C (59 o F to 86 o F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Protect from light and humidity.
📋 Description ▾
12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY
12.1Mechanism of Action Nonclinical studies have shown that paroxetine is an SSRI; paroxetine is not an estrogen. The mechanism of action of paroxetine for the treatment of moderate to severe VMS associated with menopause is unknown. Studies at clinically relevant paroxetine doses in humans have demonstrated that paroxetine blocks the uptake of serotonin into human platelets.
Paroxetine is a neuronal serotonin reuptake inhibitor with weak effects on norepinephrine and dopamine neuronal reuptake in vitro. Paroxetine also has low affinity for muscarinic alpha 1 -, alpha 2 -, beta-adrenergic, dopamine (D 2 )-, 5-HT 1 -, 5-HT 2 -, and histamine (H 1 )-receptors.
12.2Pharmacodynamics The exposure-response relationship and time course of pharmacodynamic response for the safety and effectiveness of paroxetine for the treatment of moderate to severe VMS associated with menopause have not been fully characterized.
12.3Pharmacokinetics Absorption Paroxetine is completely absorbed after oral dosing. In a study in which healthy postmenopausal females (n=24) received paroxetine capsules 7.5 mg once daily for 14 days, steady-state paroxetine concentrations were achieved by approximately 12 days of dosing for most subjects, although it may take substantially longer in an occasional patient. Peak concentrations were reached at a median of 6 hours (3 to 8 hours range).
Steady-state mean values of C max , C min , and AUC 0-last were 13.10 ng/mL (CV 91%), 7.17 ng/mL (CV 99%), and 237 hr * ng/mL (CV 94%), respectively. Steady-state AUC 0-24 values were about 3 times those of AUC 0-inf following a single paroxetine dose, indicating non-linear pharmacokinetics. Steady-state C max values were approximately 5 times greater than those attained after a single paroxetine dose and steady-state exposure based on AUC 0-24 was about 10 times greater than AUC 0-24 after a single dose.
The nonlinear kinetics and excess accumulation are due to the fact that CYP2D6, an enzyme that is in part responsible for paroxetine metabolism, is readily saturable. Effect of Food: The effects of food on the bioavailability of paroxetine were studied after administration of another paroxetine product with a dosage higher than paroxetine. AUC was slightly increased (6%) when paroxetine was administered with food and the C max was 29% greater, while the time to reach peak plasma concentration decreased from 6.4 hours post-dosing to 4.9 hours.
These changes are not clinically significant [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.1 )] . Distribution Paroxetine distributes throughout the body, including the central nervous system, with only 1% remaining in the plasma. Approximately 95% and 93% of paroxetine is bound to plasma protein at 100 ng/mL and 400 ng/mL, respectively.
Paroxetine does not alter the in vitro protein binding of phenytoin or warfarin. Elimination Metabolism: Paroxetine is extensively metabolized after oral administration. The principal metabolites are polar and conjugated products of oxidation and methylation, which are readily cleared.
Conjugates with glucuronic acid and sulfate predominate, and major metabolites have been isolated and identified. Data indicate that the metabolites have no more than 1/50 the potency of the parent compound at inhibiting serotonin uptake. The metabolism of paroxetine is accomplished in part by cytochrome CYP2D6.
The role of this enzyme in paroxetine metabolism also suggests potential drug interactions [see Drug Interactions ( 7 )] . At steady state, when the CYP2D6 pathway is essentially saturated, paroxetine clearance is governed by alternative P450 isozymes, which, unlike CYP2D6, show no evidence of saturation. Excretion: Approximately 64% of a 30 mg oral solution of another paroxetine product (four times the recommended paroxetine capsules dosage) was excreted in the urine with 2% as the parent compound and 62% as metabolites over a 10-day post-dosing period.
About 36% of the dose was excreted in the fece… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
💬 Information for Patients ▾
17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide). Instruct patients to read the Medication Guide before starting therapy with paroxetine capsules and to reread it each time the prescription is renewed. Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors Advise patients, their families, and their caregivers to look for the emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially early during treatment and to alert the health care provider if such changes occur [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1 )] .
Serotonin Syndrome Caution patients about the risk of serotonin syndrome, particularly with the concomitant use of paroxetine capsules with triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, opioids, linezolid, tramadol, amphetamines, St. John’s Wort, lithium, tryptophan supplements, other serotonergic agents, or antipsychotic drugs. Instruct patients to contact their health care provider, or report to the emergency room, should they experience signs or symptoms of serotonin syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2 ) and Drug Interactions ( 7.3 )] .
Potential Impact on Tamoxifen Efficacy Caution patients that efficacy of tamoxifen may be reduced when administered concomitantly and counsel them about the likely benefit of paroxetine for treating VMS vs. the risk of possible decreased tamoxifen effectiveness [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3 )] . Increased Risk of Bleeding Caution patients about the concomitant use of paroxetine capsules and NSAIDs, aspirin, warfarin, and other anticoagulants because combined use of drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake has been associated with an increased risk of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4 )] .
Angle-Closure Claucoma Advise patients that taking paroxetine capsules can cause mild pupillary dilation, which in susceptible individuals, can lead to an episode of angle-closure glaucoma existing [See Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5 )] . Hyponatremia Caution patients about the risk of hyponatremia, particularly elderly patients and those who are taking diuretics or are volume-depleted [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6 )] . Bone Fracture Inform patients that there is the possibility for an increased risk of fracture [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 )] .
Screening Patients for Bipolar Disorder and Monitoring for Mania/Hypomania Advise patients, their families, and their caregivers to observe for signs of activation of mania/hypomania [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8 )] . Pregnancy Advise patients to notify their physician if they become pregnant during therapy [see Contraindications ( 4.5 ) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.1 )] . Drug Interactions Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider if they are taking, or plan to take, any prescription or over-the-counter drugs, including herbal supplements, because there is a potential for interaction with paroxetine [see Drug Interactions ( 7 )] .
Sexual Dysfunction Advise patients that use of paroxetine capsules may cause symptoms of sexual dysfunction in female patients. Inform patients that they should discuss any changes in sexual function and potential management strategies with their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10 )]. Allergic Reactions Advise patients to seek medical attention if they develop an allergic reaction such as rash, hives, swelling, or difficulty breathing [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.2 )] .
Distributed by: Solco Healthcare US, LLC Somerset, NJ 08873, USA Manufactured by: Zhejiang Huahai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Xunqiao, Linhai, Zhejiang, 317024, China Revised: 12/2025 200468-04
💬 Medication Guide ▾
MEDICATION GUIDE MEDICATION GUIDE Paroxetine Capsules (PA-rox-eh-tine) Read this Medication Guide that comes with paroxetine capsules before you start taking it and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.
Talk with your healthcare provider if there is something you do not understand or want to learn more about. What is the most important information I should know about paroxetine capsules? Paroxetine capsules may cause serious side effects, including: • Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or actions.
Paroxetine capsules and related antidepressant medicines may increase suicidal thoughts or actions within the first few months of treatment. o Depression or other serious mental illnesses are the most important causes of suicidal thoughts or actions. o Watch for these changes and call your healthcare provider right away if you notice: ▪ New or sudden changes in mood, behavior, actions, thoughts, or feelings, especially if severe. ▪ Pay close attention to any changes when paroxetine capsules are started. o Keep all follow-up visits with your healthcare provider and call between visits if you are worried about symptoms.
Call your healthcare provider right away or go to the nearest emergency room if you have any of the following symptoms, especially if they are new, worse, or worry you: o attempts to commit suicide o acting on dangerous impulses o acting aggressive or violent o thoughts about suicide or dying o new or worse depression o new or worse anxiety or panic attacks o feeling agitated, restless, angry or irritable o trouble sleeping o an increase in activity or talking more than what is normal for you o other unusual changes in behavior or mood.
What are paroxetine capsules? • Paroxetine capsules are prescription medicine used to treat moderate to severe hot flashes associated with menopause. • Paroxetine capsules are not any for psychiatric problems such as depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. • Paroxetine capsules are not for use in children. Who should not take paroxetine capsules? Do not take paroxetine capsules if you: • take a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI).
Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you are not sure if you take an MAOI, including the antibiotic linezolid or the intravenous methylene blue. o Do not take an MAOI within 14 days of stopping paroxetine capsules unless directed to do so by your healthcare provider. o Do not start paroxetine capsules if you stopped taking an MAOI in the last 14 days unless directed to do so by your healthcare provider. o People who take paroxetine capsules close in time to an MAOI may have a serious or life-threatening side effect called serotonin syndrome.
Get medical help right away if you have any of these symptoms: ▪ high fever ▪ uncontrolled muscle spasms ▪ stiff muscles ▪ rapid changes in heart rate or blood pressure ▪ confusion ▪ loss of consciousness (pass out) ▪ nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea • take thioridazine. Do not take thioridazine together with paroxetine capsules because this can cause serious heart rhythm problems or sudden death. • take the antipsychotic medicine pimozide. Do not take pimozide together with paroxetine capsules because this can cause serious heart problems. • are allergic to paroxetine or any of the ingredients in paroxetine capsules.
See the end of this Medication Guide for a complete list of ingredients in paroxetine capsules. • are pregnant or become pregnant. Paroxetine capsules can harm your unborn baby. Call your healthcare provider if you become pregnant while taking paroxetine capsules.
What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking paroxetine capsules? Before taking paroxetine capsules, tell your healthcare provider about all of your medical conditions, including if yo… [Excerpted — this section continues on DailyMed.]
🔬 Clinical Studies ▾
14 CLINICAL STUDIES The effectiveness of paroxetine capsules as a treatment for moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms (VMS) associated with menopause was established in two Phase 3 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials in 1,174 postmenopausal females. In these trials, patients must have had a minimum of 7-8 moderate to severe VMS per day at baseline (≥ 50 per week) for 30 days prior to receiving study drug. Patients were randomized to paroxetine capsules 7.5 mg orally once daily or daily placebo: • Trial 1 was a 12-week trial with a total of 606 postmenopausal females (average age 55 years; 65% White, 33% Black or African American, and 2% other races; 10.6% were Hispanic/Latina and 89.4% were not Hispanic/Latina; 18% surgically menopausal and 82% naturally menopausal). • Trial 2 was a 24-week trial with a total of 568 postmenopausal females (average age 54 years; 76% White, 22% Black or African American, and 2% other races; 6.5% were Hispanic/Latina and 93.5% were not Hispanic/Latina; 20% surgically menopausal and 81% naturally menopausal).
The co-primary efficacy endpoints for both trials were the reduction from baseline in VMS frequency and VMS severity at Weeks 4 and 12. • Data from Trial 1 showed a statistically significant reduction from baseline in the frequency of moderate to severe VMS at Week 4 and Week 12 and a statistically significant reduction in the severity of moderate to severe VMS at Week 4 in the paroxetine capsules group compared to the placebo group (Table 4). • Data from Trial 2 showed a statistically significant reduction from baseline in the frequency and severity of moderate to severe VMS at Week 4 and Week 12 in the paroxetine capsules group compared to placebo group (Table 5).
Table 4: Trial 1: Changes in the Daily Frequency and Daily Severity of VMS at Weeks 4 and 12 in Postmenopausal Females with Moderate to Severe VMS (MITT Population) Frequency Severity Paroxetine Capsules Placebo Paroxetine Capsules Placebo Baseline n 301 305 301 305 Median 10.4 10.4 2.5
2.5Change from baseline at Week 4 n 289 293 281 289 Median -4.3 -3.1 -0.05
0.00Treatment Difference * -1.2 -0.05 P -value # <0.01 <0.01 Change from baseline at Week 12 n 264 274 236 253 Median -5.9 -5.0 -0.06 -0.02 Treatment Difference * -0.9 -0.04 P -value # <0.01
0.17MITT population: all consented and randomized patients with valid baseline daily hot flash diary data who had taken at least 1 dose of study drug and had at least 1 day of on-treatment daily hot flash diary data. * Treatment Difference: the difference between the median changes from baseline. # P -value was obtained from rank-ANCOVA model. Table 5: Trial 2: Changes in the Daily Frequency and Daily Severity of VMS at Weeks 4 and 12 in Postmenopausal Females with Moderate to Severe VMS (MITT Population) Frequency Severity Paroxetine Capsules Placebo Paroxetine Capsules Placebo Baseline n 284 284 284 284 Median 9.9 9.6 2.5
2.5Change from baseline at Week 4 n 276 274 268 271 Median -3.8 -2.5 -0.04 -0.01 Treatment Difference * -1.3 -0.03 P -value # <0.01
0.04Change from baseline at Week 12 n 257 244 245 236 Median -5.6 -3.9 -0.05
0.00Treatment Difference * -1.7 -0.05 P -value # <0.01 <0.01 MITT population: all consented and randomized patients with valid baseline daily hot flash diary data who had taken at least 1 dose of study drug and had at least 1 day of on-treatment daily hot flash diary data. * Treatment Difference: the difference between the median changes from baseline. # P -value is obtained from rank-ANCOVA model. Persistence of benefit at 24 weeks in Trial 2 was evaluated with a responder analysis where responders were defined as those patients who achieved ≥ 50% reduction from baseline in the frequency of moderate to severe VMS at Week 24.
The proportion of patients who achieved a ≥ 50% reduction in the frequency of moderate to severe VMS from baseline to Week 24 was 48% in the paroxetine capsules group and 36% in the placebo group at Week 24.
🧪 Nonclinical Toxicology ▾
13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY
13.1Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility Carcinogenesis Two-year carcinogenicity studies were conducted in rodents given paroxetine in the diet at 1, 5, and 25 mg/kg/day (mice) and 1, 5, and 20 mg/kg/day (rats). The doses used in these carcinogenicity studies were approximately 16 (mouse) and 26 (rat) times the MHRD for paroxetine for the treatment of moderate to severe VMS associated with menopause. There was a significantly greater number of male rats in the high-dose group with reticulum cell sarcomas (1/100, 0/50, 0/50, and 4/50 for control, low-, middle-, and high-dose groups, respectively) and a significantly increased linear trend across groups for the occurrence of lymphoreticular tumors in male rats.
Female rats were not affected. Although there was a dose-related increase in the number of tumors in mice, there was no paroxetine -related increase in the number of mice with tumors. The relevance of these findings to humans is unknown.
Mutagenesis Paroxetine produced no genotoxic effect in a battery of 5 in vitro and 2 in vivo assays that included the following: bacterial mutation assay, mouse lymphoma mutation assay, unscheduled DNA synthesis assay, and tests for cytogenetic aberrations in vivo in mouse bone marrow and in vitro in human lymphocytes and in a dominant lethal test in rats.
📄 Package Label / Principal Display Panel ▾
PACKAGE LABEL.PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL Container Label-7.5 mg-30 capsules NDC 43547-409-03 Paroxetine Capsules Rx only PHARMACIST: Dispense the accompanying Medication Guide to each patient. Each capsule contains paroxetine mesylate equivalent to 7.5 mg of paroxetine. Dosing: Take one capsule (7.5 mg) once a day, at bedtime, as prescribed by your doctor.
Dispense in a tight container with child-resistant closure. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children. Store at 20°-25°C (68°-77°F); excursions permitted to 15°-30°C (59°-86°F) [See USP Controlled Room Temperature].
Protect from light and humidity. Manufactured by: Zhejiang Huahai Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd. Xunqiao, Linhai, Zhejiang 317024, China Distributed by: Solco Healthcare US, LLC.
Somerset, NJ 08873, USA Rev: 12/2021 200467-02 Figure 2 label 7.5 mg