Paxil (paroxetine) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) type antidepressant approved for prescription use in the United States.
Studies have indicated that SSRI antidepressants can increase the risk of suicidal thinking in young adults. These findings have also shown that that risk appears to decline in older adults.
The drugs carry a "black-box" warning about the increased risk in suicidal thinking and behavior in children and adolescents. Doctors and caregivers are advised to carefully watch for any changes in patient behavior after starting treatment with an antidepressant.