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Compare Paxil vs. Nefazodone

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Paroxetine (Paxil) and nefazodone are both used to treat depression, but they have some key differences. Paroxetine, also known by its brand name Paxil, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that also treats various anxiety disorders. It is available in both brand and generic forms and comes in immediate-release and extended-release tablets, as well as an oral suspension. Common side effects include nausea, sexual problems, and weight gain, and it can cause withdrawal symptoms if stopped suddenly. On the other hand, nefazodone is an atypical antidepressant that raises serotonin and norepinephrine levels. It is only available as a generic since the brand name Serzone has been discontinued. Nefazodone typically does not cause weight changes and is taken twice daily. Both medications can worsen depression and increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in younger people. However, nefazodone has a risk of liver failure, making it less commonly prescribed.

  • Paroxetine (Paxil)
    Nefazodone
  • Paroxetine (Paxil)
    Nefazodone

  • Summary of Paxil vs. Nefazodone

    Summary for SSRI
    Prescription only

    Paroxetine (also known by it's brand name Paxil) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), used for different types of anxiety problems and depression. It's available as a brand name and generic version, and it comes as an immediate-release tablet, an oral suspension, and an extended-release tablet. Possible side effects include nausea, sexual side effects, and weight gain. It can also cause withdrawal symptoms (e.g., headache, trouble sleeping, anxiety) if you suddenly stop taking it.

    Summary for Atypical antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Nefazodone is used to treat depression, but it’s usually not a first-choice option because it can cause serious liver damage. Some side effects include headache, dry mouth, nausea, and drowsiness. But, it's not likely to cause weight gain or weight loss. Withdrawal symptoms aren't typically with this medication, but it still can't be ruled out. Nefazodone is only available as a generic medication since the brand name Serzone has been discontinued.

  • Indications of Paxil vs. Nefazodone

    Indications for
    •Depression
    •Panic disorder (PD)
    •Social anxiety disorder (SAD)
    •Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) (IR only)
    •Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) (IR only)
    •Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (IR only)
    •Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) (ER only)
    Indications for
    •Depression

  • Pros and Cons of Paxil vs. Nefazodone

    Pros and Const for SSRI
    Pros
    •Only needs to be taken once daily
    •Available as a tablet and oral liquid
    •Can be taken with or without food
    •Can be used for many different mental health conditions
    •Can be helpful for people who have both anxiety and depression
    Cons
    •Can take several weeks or months to achieve the full benefits
    •Might be more likely than other SSRIs to cause weight gain or sexual problems
    •Can interact with other medications, especially those affecting serotonin levels
    •Can cause withdrawal symptoms if you suddenly stop taking it
    Pros and Const for Atypical antidepressant
    Pros
    •Comes in different strengths, so your provider can adjust your dose if needed
    •Okay to use in people with kidney problems
    •Not associated with weight changes (weight gain or weight loss)
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Risk of life-threatening liver failure
    •Have to take it twice daily
    •Can take many weeks for the full effects to kick in
    •Interacts with many medications, such as carbamazepine (Tegretol) and alprazolam (Xanax)

  • Common Side Effects of Paxil vs. Nefazodone

    Common Side Effects for
    •Abnormal ejaculation (up to 28%)
    •Nausea (up to 25%)
    •Weakness (up to 22%)
    •Sleepiness or trouble sleeping (up to 24%)
    •Dry mouth (up to 18%)
    •Constipation (up to 16%)
    •Sweating (up to 14%)
    •Dizziness (up to 14%)
    •Diarrhea (up to 12%)
    •Low libido (up to 12%)
    •Shakiness (up to 11%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (36%)
    •Sleepiness (25%)
    •Dry mouth (25%)
    •Nausea (22%)
    •Dizziness (17%)
    •Constipation (14%)
    •Trouble sleeping (11%)
    •Weakness (11%)
    •Lightheadedness (10%)
    •Blurred vision (9%)
    •Indigestion (9%)

  • Warnings of Paxil vs. Nefazodone

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, and unusual behavior
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •Risk of harm to unborn babies
    •Sexual problems
    •Withdrawal
    •Risk factors: Stopping paroxetine (Paxil) suddenly
    •Risk of bleeding
    •Not for use alone in bipolar disorder
    •Glaucoma
    •Low blood sodium levels
    •Seizures
    •Risk of abnormal heart rhythm from interactions
    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression and suicidal thoughts and behavior
    •Liver problems
    •Bipolar disorder
    •Eye problems
    •Drop in blood pressure upon standing
    •Seizures
    •Heart conditions

  • Prices with our coupons for Paxil vs. Nefazodone

    Learn more about Paroxetine
    Learn more about Nefazodone

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