Paroxetine

Paroxetine is a chemical compound that works as an antidepressant belonging to a group of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors(SSRIs). It is a benzodioxole, that consists of piperidine bearing 1,3-benzodioxol-5-yloxymethyl and 4-fluorophenyl substituents at positions 3, 4.

Index

Structure & Formula

Paroxetine has the IUPAC name (3S, 4R)-3-(1,3-benzodioxol-5-yloxymethyl)-4-(4-fluorophenyl)piperidine and it has chemical formula as C₁₉H₂OFNO₃.

The 2D structure of paroxetine is shown below.

Chemical & Physical Properties

The following are the chemical and physical properties of paroxetine.

Molecular Weight	329.4
Hydrogen Bond Donor Count	1
Hydrogen Bond Acceptor Count	5
Rotatable Bond Count	4
Exact Mass of the compound	329.14272166
Topological Polar Surface Area	39.7 Å²
Heavy Atom Count	24
Formal Charge	0
Complexity	402
Isotope Atom Count	0
Is it Canonicaliized?	Yes
Defined Atom Stereocenter Count	2
Undefined Atom Stereocenter Count	0
Defined Bond Stereocenter Count	0
Undefined Bond Stereocenter Count	0
Covalently Bonded Unit Count	1
Physical appearance	Solid
Boiling Point	451.7 ± 45.0℃
Melting Point	120-138℃
Solubility	5.4 mg/mL
Vapor Pressure	4.79 × 10^-8 mm Hg at 25℃

Applications

Paroxetine uses can be found in several situation in our lives, some of the uses are discussed below.

The chemical compound finds major applications in the treatment of canine and feline behavioral disorders.
The compound is used to treat depression, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety disorders.
It is also used to treat post-traumatic stress disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
It helps improve a person’s mood, sleep, appetite, energy levels, and also restore interest in daily living.

Hazards

Following are the hazards of the compound

The compound is harmful if swallowed in higher dosages
It may damage fertility or unborn child.
Paroxetine has been found to be very toxic to aquatic life.
It may cause skin & eye irritation, and respiratory issues.

Side Effects

Some of the paroxetine side effects as medicine are:

Sickness (feeling weak or tired)
Nausea
Headaches
Diarrhea
Restlessness
Chest pains
Blurred vision
Unexpected weight gain or loss
Allergic reactions

FAQs

How is Paroxetine stored?

The chemical compound is stored in a tightly closed container in a dry and well-ventilated environment, with tablets stored at a temperature between 15-30℃ and suspension at or below temperatures 25℃.

What are the most common side-effects of paroxetine?

Some of the most common side effects are nausea, drowsiness, loss of appetite, blurred vision, headaches, etc.

Can paroxetine make a person feel sleepy?

Yes, it may make a person feel sleepy.