Optimal dose regimen for paroxetine.

The dose regimen for paroxetine in the treatment of depression has been well established through a number of individual dosing studies and analyses from the worldwide clinical data base. The starting dose, which is also the minimal effective dose, is 20 mg/day. For most patients, 20 mg/day will also be the optimal dose. For patients who do not show an adequate therapeutic response within 1 to 3 weeks of initiating therapy, the dose of paroxetine should be increased in 10-mg increments no more often than at weekly intervals to a maximum of 50 mg/day. Medication should be given as a single daily dose, usually in the morning. The therapeutic dose range in the elderly is 20 mg to 40 mg of paroxetine.