Paxil
Paxil (Paroxetine) is an
antidepressant that is classified as a
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). It is used in the treatment of depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (
OCD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD),
panic disorder (PD), social anxiety disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Paxil was the fourth most commonly prescribed antidepressant in 2006, with more than 19.7 million prescriptions (
Drug Topics, March 5th, 2007). The prescription of Paxil has become controversial because of serious withdrawal symptoms and studies that have linked it to increased risk of suicide.
The side effects of Paxil are similar to those of other Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). Side effects may include:
- Headache
- Nausea
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Sweating
- Changes in weight (gain or loss)
- Changes in appetite
- Constipation
- Tremor
- Dizziness
- Increased feelings of depression and anxiety in the beginning of treatment
- Sexual Dysfunction
Sexual dysfunction is one of the most common reasons people discontinue treatment with Paxil. Sexual side effects usually resolve after discontinuation of the drug, although cases of ‘Post-SSRI sexual dysfunction’ are being reported more frequently. If a person wants to stop taking Paxil because of sexual side effects, they should discuss other antidepressants with a doctor. Some antidepressant drugs, such as Bupropion (
Wellbutrin), are much less likely to cause sexual side effects. Sexual side effects of Paxil affect both sexes and may include:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Loss of libido
- Difficulty or inability to achieve orgasm
Much of the controversy over the prescription of Paxil is over its tendency to cause significant dependency and withdrawal symptoms. For 10 years, GlaxoKleinSmith has falsely claimed that Paxil is ‘non-habit forming’. It has been found, however, to have one of the highest incidence rates of severe withdrawal symptoms among all SSRIs
drugs. Depending on dose and length of treatment, Paxil may cause withdrawal symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Higher dosage and longer treatment make severe withdrawal symptoms more likely. Abrupt discontinuation also increases the risk of SSRI’s withdrawal symptoms. Symptoms can last several weeks and gradually disappear as the brain readjusts itself. Paxil withdrawal symptoms may include:
- Electric shock sensations in the neck and head
- Flu-like symptoms (especially nausea)
- Dizziness
- Irritability
- Fatigue
- Depression
- Sexual dysfunction
- Suicidal thoughts
Withdrawal symptoms can be minimized by tapering off of Paxil gradually by direction of a doctor. Fluoxtine (
Prozac) is often used for a short period of time to treat more severe cases of SSRIs withdrawal. It is very important to talk to your doctor if you want to stop taking Paxil.
Paxil has recently been associated with birth defects. If you are pregnant or may become pregnant, talk to your doctor about switching to another SSRI.