What class of drug is Paroxetine?

Paroxetine is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). This type of medication works primarily by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which helps improve mood and reduce anxiety. SSRIs like Paroxetine are commonly prescribed to treat various mental health conditions, including depression and anxiety disorders. The mechanism involves inhibiting the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin in the synapses, allowing for more serotonin to be available to bind to receptors and exert its positive effects.

In the context of other classifications, antipsychotics target different neurotransmitter systems primarily for treating psychosis and mood disorders. Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are an older class of antidepressants that require dietary restrictions due to interactions with tyramine. Tricyclic antidepressants, while also used to treat depression, have a different mechanism of action compared to SSRIs and tend to have more side effects. Understanding that Paroxetine's predominant action is as an SSRI clarifies its therapeutic use and distinct classification within the broader forest of psychiatric medications.