Brisdelle (paroxetine) is a brand-name drug that’s prescribed for vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes) in adults going through menopause. Brisdelle comes as a capsule that’s typically taken once per day at bedtime.

Brisdelle belongs to a drug class called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Brisdelle is available in a generic version.

It’s important to note that Brisdelle does have a limitation of use. Brisdelle isn’t for depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric disorders. In some cases, paroxetine (the active drug in Brisdelle) may be used to treat psychiatric conditions, but Brisdelle contains a lower dose of the drug. So, it’s not known at this time whether this low dose of paroxetine may be safe or effective in people treating psychiatric conditions. It’s not recommended to take Brisdelle for psychiatric conditions.

Keep reading for specific information about the dosage of Brisdelle, including its strength and how to take the medication. For a comprehensive look at Brisdelle, see this article.

Note: This article describes typical dosages for Brisdelle provided by the drug’s manufacturer. When taking Brisdelle, always follow the dosage prescribed by your doctor.

For more information, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

The information below describes Brisdelle’s dose for vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes) and other details about the drug.

Brisdelle form

Brisdelle comes as an oral capsule that’s taken by mouth.

Brisdelle strength

Brisdelle comes in one strength of 7.5 milligrams (mg).

Typical dosages

The following information describes dosages that are commonly prescribed in adults. However, be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. Your doctor will determine the best dosage to fit your needs.

Dosage for vasomotor symptoms

Doctors may prescribe Brisdelle to treat vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes) related to menopause.

If your doctor prescribes this medication, you’ll likely take one Brisdelle 7.5-mg capsule once per day. Typically, you’ll take this at bedtime each night.

For more information about your specific dosage, talk with your doctor.

How to take Brisdelle

Brisdelle comes as an oral capsule that you swallow whole. Do not divide, crush, chew, or place the capsule in water. You may take your dose with or without food.

It may be helpful to take Brisdelle around the same time of day, at bedtime. This helps maintain a steady level of the drug in your body so Brisdelle can work effectively.

If you have trouble swallowing capsules, see this article for tips on how to take this form of medication. You can also talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

If you have questions about how to take Brisdelle, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Long-term treatment

Brisdelle is meant to be taken as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that Brisdelle is safe and effective for you, you’ll likely take it long term.

Before you start taking Brisdelle, your doctor will discuss your treatment plan with you.

ACCESSIBLE DRUG LABELS AND CONTAINERS

Some pharmacies offer labels with large print, braille, or a code you scan with a smartphone to convert text to speech. If your local pharmacy doesn’t have these options, your doctor or pharmacist might be able to recommend a pharmacy that does.

If you’re having trouble opening medication bottles, ask your pharmacist about putting Brisdelle in an easy-open container. They also may recommend tools that can make it easier to open bottles.

Do not take more Brisdelle than your doctor prescribes. For some medications, taking more than the recommended amount may lead to harmful effects or overdose.

Symptoms of an overdose

Overdose symptoms of Brisdelle can include:

If you take more than the recommended amount of Brisdelle

Call your doctor right away if you believe you’ve taken too much Brisdelle. Another option is to call America’s Poison Centers at 800-222-1222 or use its online tool. If you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number, or go to the nearest emergency room.

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.