By affecting a certain brain chemical, paroxetine hydrochloride (Paxil^®) can help treat the symptoms of several conditions. Paroxetine is approved to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social anxiety disorder, and several other conditions. However, paroxetine is not suitable for everyone. Before taking paroxetine, make sure to talk to your healthcare provider about any other medical conditions you have and any medications you are taking (including vitamins and herbal supplements).