Side Effects of Paroxetine Mesylate

Most people are able to take paroxetine mesylate without any problems. However, as with any medication, side effects are possible. In clinical studies, the most common paroxetine mesylate side effects included dry mouth, headache, and nausea. If you develop any serious problems during treatment, such as hallucinations or suicidal thoughts, notify your healthcare provider right away.

An Introduction to Side Effects of Paroxetine Mesylate

Just like any medicine, paroxetine mesylate (Pexeva®) can cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the medication will have problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in many cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or are treated easily by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible paroxetine mesylate side effects. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list with you.)
 

Serious Paroxetine Mesylate Side Effects

Some
 side effects of paroxetine mesylate are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include but are not limited to:
 
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior, such as thoughts of hurting yourself (see Pexeva and Suicide)
  • Anxiety, agitation, or restlessness
  • Seeing or hearing things that are not there (hallucinations)
  • Any other changes in mood or unusual behavior
  • Extreme feelings of happiness or elation, which may switch back and forth with a depressed or sad mood
  • Feelings of internal restlessness, jitteriness, or an inability to sit still
  • Signs of serotonin syndrome (a rare but dangerous problem associated with certain medications), such as:
     
    • Confusion or other mental changes
    • A rapid heart rate
    • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
    • Hallucinations
    • Blood pressure changes
    • An irregular heart rhythm
    • Muscle stiffness
    • Fever, sweating, or shivering
    • Shakiness
    • Seizures
 
  • A rapidly or forcefully beating heart (palpitations)
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Changes in how often or how much you urinate
  • A painful erection that will not go away (priapism)
  • Tremors, muscle twitching, or other movement problems
  • Any unusual bleeding or bruising
  • Signs of a bleeding stomach, such as:
     
    • Weakness
    • Shortness of breath
    • Stomach pains
    • Black, tarry stools
    • Bloody vomit, or vomit that looks like coffee grounds
 
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, such as:
     
    • Unexplained rash
    • Hives
    • Itching
    • Unexplained swelling
    • Wheezing
    • Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
 
Side Effects of Paroxetine Mesylate Article Continues on Next Page >
Written by/reviewed by: Susan Lakey, PharmD, MPH
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD
 
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