Paxil

Paxil is one of the leading prescription drugs in the United States. It is also known as the drug paroxetine HCI, a popular antidepressant. This medication has a number of uses approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

Paxil is approved for use in persons with several types of mental health conditions. They include:

• Major depressive disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Social anxiety disorder (SAD)
• Panic disorder
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

These depression and anxiety disorders may overlap in some people. The medication is useful in treating persons with multiple symptoms.

The CR version is approved for use in people with social anxiety disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and panic disorder.

Paxil is considered a serotonin reuptake inhibitor drug (SSRI). Serotonin is a chemical in the brain that sends electrical signals to and from nerve cells. People who experience depression or anxiety disorders might have problems with the serotonin levels in their brains. The medication works by keeping serotonin from being reabsorbed back into a signal-sending cell. This increases the amount absorbed by the receiving cell and helps messages better transmit from cell to cell.

Paxil CR works in a similar fashion. The CR stands for “controlled release.” The same benefits are achieved with this form of the drug, but the “Geomatrix” tablet controls the rate of absorption of the drug. The CR version has shown to have fewer side effects than the original, perhaps due to the controlled release and absorption of the drug.

Paroxetine HCI is meant to be taken one time daily, either in the morning or afternoon. It can be taken in liquid or tablet form. Standard dosage is between 10 and 20 milligrams. Based on individual needs, doctors can start with a lower dose and raise it up to 50 or 60 milligrams if needed. This medication has been shown to be especially effective for people aged 65 and over in doses of 10 milligrams.

Side effects of paroxetine HCI may include the following:

• Nausea
• Infection
• Dry mouth
• Diarrhea
• Yawing
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Sexual side effects
• Nervousness
• Decreased appetite
• Sleepiness
• Sweating

Additional side effects may be experienced when discontinuing use of the drug. Anyone considering Paxil withdrawal should speak with their doctor before stopping treatment. Most antidepressants are made to be used over a long period of time. Just because a person may start feeling “better” does not mean he/she is ready to stop antidepressant treatment.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should take use of any antidepressant under careful consideration, due to the risk of birth defects and possible transmission through breast milk. Paroxetine HCI, like many other antidepressants, has also been shown to increase suicidal thoughts in children or teenagers. To prevent harmful drug interactions, always inform your physician and pharmacist of any other prescription drugs or over-the-counter drugs you are taking.

Although the Food and Drug Administration does not consider paroxetine HCI to be addicting, conflicting reports and rumors abound. Currently, an Internet petition is circulating to force the makers of Paxil to admit more side effects and addicting qualities of the drug. Personal experiences and opinions on this medication are numerous. Anyone seeking to begin taking any antidepressant should speak with their doctor for advice.

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