Helpful Paxil Information

After my blog yesterday describing my struggles with Paxil I thought it would be helpful to go over some basic info about Paxil as well as known side effects and withdrawal symptoms.

Paxil was released onto the United States market by GlaxoSmithKline in 1992. This drug was developed in hopes of creating a superior Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) anti-depressant, which could be used in both children and adults. I was prescribed Paxil to help with my depression that comes with my bipolar. Paxil and other Paroxetine medications are primarily prescribed to treat depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social phobia and social anxiety disorders, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

Side Effects
Unfortunately, potent SSRI drugs offer a wide array of frightening side effects, including: increase in depression and/or anxiety, paranoia, apathy, impulsive behaviors, emotional instability, mood swings, nightmares or vivid dreams, weight gain, weight loss, headache, nausea, diarrhea, vomiting, constipation, dry mouth, sleepiness, insomnia, heavy sweating, muscle ache, muscle weakness, vertigo, motion sickness, loss of sexual drive, inability to achieve orgasm, teeth grinding, dilated pupils, and even suicidal thoughts.

I experienced emotional instability, mood swings, uncontrollable crying, hot flashes, and an irregular period. I know, tmi lol.

Withdrawal
Withdrawal symptoms of Paxil include: feelings of electric shock and "zaps" in the brain and throughout the body, hot flashes, vertigo, extreme anxiety, loss of concentration, confusion, paranoia, emotional instability, mood swings, forgetfulness, irrational thoughts and behaviors, insomnia, rebound of depression symptoms, and even suicidal thoughts and tendencies.

Since I've weaned off Paxil I've experienced suicidal thoughts, mood swings, loss of concentration, anxiety, and heart palpitations. Today, however these seem to be lessening. Thank God. I hope this information has been helpful to you.

Source 1 for Paxil info    Source 2 for Paxil info