RxSideEffect.org: The effects of drugs vary depending upon the drug taken

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Take the time to learn about the potential benefits, the health risks and the many unknowns regarding generic paxil. It can be frightening to read a list of the side effects of Paroxetine. More than a few of my patients have immediately assumed that they would suffer from all of them. The truth is that most people will experience none of them, just the benefits of Paroxetine. Side effects vary from person to person and it is impossible to predict exactly how each individual will be affected. Some characteristics and pre-existing conditions are known to increase the risk from certain side effects. Doctors should assess these factors before advising patients on which drugs to choose. The FDA monitors reports of adverse drug reactions and has found no difference in the rates between generic and brand name drugs.

Paxil or paroxetine hydrochloride is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). In addition to its use in the treatment of depression, it is also prescribed for a number of anxiety disorders such as panic attacks and phobias, as well as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). This antidepressant formally approved for treating social anxiety disorder (SAD), lending to the somewhat inaccurate referral as an anti-shyness drug and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

How and When to Take Paxil

The generally accepted wisdom with all SSRIs is that if you don't feel any positive benefit after four to six weeks, then you should talk to your doctor about either another SSRI or trying a med that hits another neurotransmitter.

How to Stop Taking Paxil

Your doctor should be recommending that you reduce your dosage by 12.5 mg every four days. You should probably make it five days because Paxil's discontinuation syndrome is so harsh. Four to five days is the fastest you can step down the dosage. Before starting to withdraw, it should be noted that many people will have no problems. Some will have minimal problems, which may peak after a few days before diminishing. Symptoms can remain for some weeks or months.

Adverse reactions and side effects

Commonly reported adverse reactions associated with Paxil overdose include nausea, tremor, tachycardia, confusion, vomiting, dizziness, somnolence, and coma. Patients taking either monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or thioridazine should not take Paxil, and it is contraindicated in patients with a hypersensitivity to paroxetine or any of the inactive ingredients found in Paxil. As well, paroxetine should not be used within 2 weeks of discontinuing MAOI treatment. MAOIs should not be taken until 2 weeks after stopping treatment with Paxil.