What exactly is the difference between Paxil and Paxil CR?
I'm looking for an SSRI to treat social anxiety disorder, GAD, and PMDD. I've tried Zoloft but the low dose did nothing and the higher doses gave me nasty side effects. I need to try something else and have come across Paxil, but can't figure out the difference between the regular and controlled release. Does CR treat my illnesses more effectively
I have taken both Paxil and now take the Paxil CR and I find that it's much more effective throughout the day. Continual Release meds are just that.they last all day long and can give you more even release. I like it.
retired nurse
The CR stand for continuous release meaning it releases small amount of the medication all day long. With the regular paxil you get the whole dose at one time.
It just means continuous release. It's the same medication, but Instead of dissolving quickly in your system after you take it, it dissolves slowly so you get an even dose all day long.
Well the immediate answer here would be Paxil CR is a "Controlled Release" version of Paxil. So yes, effective would be your answer.
I take Effexor XR which stands for "Extended Release", so it goes all-day. I can completely understand when it comes to being confused, but after 5 years, i'm begining to know WAY too much about these meds.
Good luck!
pxil cr realeses the drug evenly so it will be effective all day, whearas you might of hd a bad spot during your days on regualr paxil
The controlled release gives you a balanced amount in your system all day where the other single dose tapers off after a few hours.
the only difference is how often you take it. regular paxil you takes everyday on a schedule, and the time release one you only take once a week. other than that they are the same becuase the time release will release the same amount of medication into your system that taking the regular one does everyday
Paxil -CR is time released, this usually gives you a more controlled level of the drug in your system through the day, ie constant slow release as opposed to a quick sudden release. Some patients do better with one, others with the other type, If Zoloft is not working for you, talk to your Dr. there are many more antidepressants on the market other than Zoloft and Paxil.
Usually when you see abbreviations such as CR the difference is between fast acting and slow release of medication. Some deal with the fast acting better and some react better to the slow release. Ask your doctor which would be better to help control your disorder, sometimes taking one for a period of time and if it doesn't work taking the other your get the desired relief. I hope this helps. I know how frustrating it can be to keep trying different medications just to find which one is right for you! Good Luck!