Definition

Noun: 1. A selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed as an antidepressant: Paroxetine is a medication used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and other mental health conditions by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, in the brain.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • Her doctor prescribed paroxetine to help manage her generalized anxiety disorder.
  • Common side effects of paroxetine can include nausea and drowsiness.
  • The generic version of the drug is called paroxetine, while a well-known brand name is Paxil.

Advanced Usage

• "To be on paroxetine": To be taking paroxetine as a prescribed medication.
  • He has been on paroxetine for six months and reports a significant improvement in his mood.
• "To start/taper off paroxetine": To begin taking or to gradually reduce the dosage of the medication under medical supervision.
  • It is important not to stop taking paroxetine abruptly; you must taper off it slowly.

Variants and Related Words

• Paxil (n): A common brand name for paroxetine.
• SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor) (n): The class of drugs to which paroxetine belongs. Other SSRIs include fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft).
• Antidepressant (n): A broader category of medications used to treat depression, which includes paroxetine.

Synonyms

• Antidepressant: A general term for medications that alleviate depression.
• SSRI: The specific drug class designation.

Notes on Meaning

The word paroxetine refers specifically to the chemical compound and medication. Its meaning is highly technical and context-specific, used almost exclusively in medical, pharmaceutical, and patient-care contexts. It does not have figurative or idiomatic meanings.

Noun

1. a selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor commonly prescribed as an antidepressant (trade name Paxil)