Fluoxetine HCl vs. Paroxetine
Compare Fluoxetine HCl and Paroxetine: mechanism of action, indications, side effects, cost, and which may be right for you.
Drug A
Fluoxetine HCl
Fluoxetine HCL
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
RxDrug B
Paroxetine
Paroxetine
SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)
RxQuick Comparison
| Category | Fluoxetine HCl | Paroxetine |
|---|---|---|
| Drug Class | SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) | SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) |
| Rx Status | Rx | Rx |
| Generic Available | No | No |
| Typical Cost | $4-$25/month | $15–$70/month |
Fluoxetine HCl Overview
FLUOXETINE HCL (brand name: Fluoxetine HCL) is a SSRIs. Fluoxetine is indicated for the treatment of: Acute and maintenance treatment of Major Depressive Disorder [see CLINICAL STUDIES (14.1)] . Acute and maintenance treatment of obsessions and compulsions in patients with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) [see CLINICAL STUDIES (14.2)] . Acute and…
Full Fluoxetine HCl guide →Paroxetine Overview
Paroxetine is a prescription medication used to help women manage moderate to severe hot flashes and night sweats (vasomotor symptoms) associated with menopause. While it belongs to a class of drugs that can affect brain chemicals, this specific formulation works differently and is not used to treat mental health conditions.
Full Paroxetine guide →How Each Drug Works
Paroxetine
Nonclinical studies have shown that paroxetine is an SSRI. Paroxetine capsules are not an estrogen, and its mechanism of action for the treatment of VMS is unknown.
Approved Uses (Indications)
Fluoxetine HCl
Fluoxetine is indicated for the treatment of: Acute and maintenance treatment of Major Depressive Disorder [see CLINICAL STUDIES ] . Acute and maintenance treatment of obsessions and compulsions in patients with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) [see CLINICAL STUDIES ] . Acute and maintenance treatment of binge-eating and vomiting behaviors in patients with moderate to severe Bulimia Nervosa [see CLINICAL STUDIES ] . Acute treatment of Panic Disorder, with or without agoraphobia [see CLINICAL STUDIES ] . Fluoxetine and Olanzapine in Combination is indicated for the tr…
Paroxetine
Paroxetine Capsules are indicated for the treatment of moderate to severe vasomotor symptoms (VMS) associated with menopause. Limitation of Use: Paroxetine capsules are not indicated for the treatment of any psychiatric condition. Paroxetine capsules contain a lower dose of paroxetine than that used to treat depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder. The safety and efficacy of this lower dose of paroxetine in paroxetine capsules have not been established for any ps…
Side Effects
Fluoxetine HCl
Paroxetine
Cost Comparison
Fluoxetine HCl
$4-$25/month
As a widely available generic, Fluoxetine HCl is very affordable. Patients can often find significant savings using discount cards or by checking prices at different pharmacies.
Paroxetine
$15–$70/month
Paroxetine is available as a generic, which is significantly more affordable than the brand-name versions. Always compare prices using discount cards like GoodRx to find the lowest cost at different pharmacies.
Drug Interaction: Moderate
Combining fluoxetine and paroxetine, both selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can lead to an increased risk of serotonin syndrome and additive serotonergic side effects. Patients may experience symptoms such as agitation, confusion, sweating, tremor, and diarrhea.
Mechanism: Both fluoxetine and paroxetine increase serotonin levels in the central nervous system by inhibiting its reuptake. Concurrent use leads to an additive effect on serotonin concentrations, potentially causing excessive serotonergic activity.
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Medical Disclaimer
The information on RxGuide is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.