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NCI Drug Dictionary


paroxetine hydrochloride 
The hydrochloride salt form of paroxetine, a phenylpiperidine derivative and a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) with antidepressant and anxiolytic properties. Paroxetine binds to the pre-synaptic serotonin transporter complex resulting in negative allosteric modulation of the complex thereby blocking reuptake of serotonin by the pre-synaptic transporter. Inhibition of serotonin recycling enhances serotonergic function through serotonin accumulation in the synaptic cleft, resulting in long-term desensitization and downregulation of 5HT1 (serotonin) receptors and leading to symptomatic relief of depressive illness. Check for active clinical trials or closed clinical trials using this agent. (NCI Thesaurus)
US brand name:Paxil