paroxetine

noun

par·​ox·​e·​tine pa-ˈräk-sə-ˌtēn 

: a drug C₁₉H₂₀FNO₃ that enhances serotonin activity and is usually administered in the form of its hydrochloride to treat depression

Examples of paroxetine in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Paxil, also known by the generic name paroxetine, and Lexapro, also known by the generic name escitalopram, are members of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) medication class. —Alex Yampolsky, Verywell Health, 9 Sep. 2024

For instance, a patient might be dissuaded from taking paroxetine over sertraline due to a greater short-term risk of weight gain. —Don Rauf, EverydayHealth.com, 5 July 2024

Meanwhile, those on Paxil (paroxetine), Cymbalta (duloxetine), and Celexa (citalopram) gained a bit more on average. —Sherri Gordon, Health, 23 July 2024

By 24 months, weight had risen by 3.6 pounds (1.63 kilograms) for escitalopram and nearly 3 pounds (1.33 kilograms) for paroxetine. —Sandee Lamotte, CNN, 2 July 2024

Word History

Etymology

perhaps from International Scientific Vocabulary par- (alteration of piperidine) + ox- + methyl + -ine entry 2

First Known Use

1977, in the meaning defined above

Medical Definition

paroxetine

noun

par·​ox·​e·​tine par-ˈäk-sə-ˌtēn 

: a drug that functions as an SSRI and is usually taken orally in the form of its hydrochloride C₁₉H₂₀FNO₃·HCl or mesylate C₁₉H₂₀FNO₃·CH₄O₃S to treat depression, anxiety, panic disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder and to relieve symptoms (such as hot flashes) of menopause

Note: Trademarks for paroxetine include Brisdelle, Paxil, and Pexeva.