Paxil Side Effects
From Pharmacy Drug Guide
Paxil and Paxil CR (Controlled Release) are SSRI antidepressants prescribed to treat depression, anxiety disorders, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, post traumatic stress disorder and other mood disorders. Paxil is manufactured by the drug company GlaxoSmithKline, and contains the active ingredient paroxetine hydrochloride.[1]
Common side effects of Paxil include headache, weakness, trouble concentrating or remembering things, abdominal pain, changes in taste, light sensitivity, and sexual side effects like reduced desire and ability to perform.[2]
As a selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor, Paxil works by balancing the levels of a key neurotransmitter in the brain known as serotonin. The drug often helps improve mood and energy levels while decreasing anxiety, compulsions, and panic attack symptoms. For women with severe premenstrual syndrome, Paxil may help increase appetite, decrease depression, and minimize irritability.[2]
 PhotoBucket: GrapeApe1990 | |
| Brand name for | Paroxetine hydrochloride[1] |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | GlaxoSmithKline[1] |
| Generics available? | Yes |
| Uses | Treats depression, anxiety, premenstrual syndrome, and other mood disorders |
| Common side effects | Dizziness, dry mouth, nausea, loss of appetite, drowsiness, decreased sexual function |
| Who should not take Paxil | Individuals taking MAOIs or thioridazine or with a sensitivity to paroxetine[1] |
| Disclaimer | The information provided by PharmacyDrugGuide.com is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Do not take any action based on the information on this page without consulting a physician. |
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Common Paxil Side Effects
Common side effects Paxil include agitation, headache, abdominal pain, dizziness, dry mouth, trouble sleeping, yawning, weakness, drowsiness and sweating. Serious side effects of the medication can include mental or mood changes, restlessness, blurred vision, tremors, numbness or tingling and changes in sexual interest or abilities.[3]
Paxil has been linked to serotonin syndrome which causes loss of coordination, unexplained fevers, twitchy muscles, hallucinations and fast heartbeat.[3]
About Drug Side Effects
Paxil Allergic Reactions
Paxil does not often cause allergies, but symptoms such as a rash, severe dizziness, difficulty breathing or swelling indicate the need for immediate medical attention.[4] Allergic reactions to Paxil can be caused by sensitivity to Paroxetine or to one of the inactive ingredients in Paxil. These include hypromelloses, magnesium stearate, sodium starch glycolate type a potato, dibasic calcium phosphate dihydrate, polysorbate 80, and titanium dioxide.[1]
Paxil Warnings and Precautions
- Elderly patients are at higher risk of having side effects with Paxil, and are at risk of expelling too much salt. The risk is higher among those taking diuretics, or water pills.[4]
- In 2005, the FDA issued a warning that Paxil can cause birth defects in the fetuses of pregnant women in the first trimester.[5] A 2006 study showed an increased incidence of persistent pulmonary hypertension in babies born to women taking Paxil. PPHN is a life-threatening lung disorder that shows up up immediately after after birth.[6] However, it is possible that the risks to babies born to depressed mothers may, in some cases, be worse than the risks of babies born to Paxil users. Women are advised not to discontinue use on their own, but rather to discuss the matter with a physician if they are planning to become pregnant, or have learned that they are pregnant.[4]
- Patients on Paxil may be at increased risk for suicide, especially younger individuals being treated for major depressive disorder. Monitoring by family members and doctors is suggested, especially during the early phases of treatment. Signs to watch for include anxiety, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, unusual changes in behavior, and worsening of depression.[2]
Also See: Paxil Coupons, Paxil and Pregnancy, Lithium Coupons, Lithium Side Effects, Adderall Side Effects, Zoloft Side Effects, Lexapro, Lexapro Side Effects, Trazodone Side Effects, Prozac Side Effects
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References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 http://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm?id=48098
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001037/
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 http://us.gsk.com/products/assets/us_paxil.pdf
- ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 http://www.webmd.com/drugs/drug-32900-Paxil+CR+Oral.aspx?drugid=32900&drugname=Paxil+CR+Oral
- ↑ http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/PostmarketDrugSafetyInformationforPatientsandProviders/DrugSafetyInformationforHeathcareProfessionals/PublicHealthAdvisories/ucm051731.htm
- ↑ http://www.fda.gov/Drugs/DrugSafety/PostmarketDrugSafetyInformationforPatientsandProviders/DrugSafetyInformationforHeathcareProfessionals/PublicHealthAdvisories/ucm124348.htm
