Manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, Paxil was the first medication approved for the treatment of social anxiety disorder (SAD). Paxil CR is the longer-acting, controlled-release version of Paxil. A selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor (SSRI), Paxil slows reabsorption of the chemical serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is believed to play a role in the regulation of mood and anxiety.
Usage
Paxil comes in tablet form and must be swallowed whole—not chewed or crushed. It is generally taken once per day in the morning, with or without food. If you forget to take a daily dose, take it when you remember. However, if it is close to the time of your next dose, it is better to skip the missed dose altogether. It is important to continue taking Paxil as long as your doctor instructs, even if you begin to feel better. If you abruptly stop taking Paxil, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, abnormal dreams, and tingly sensations. To avoid these symptoms, your doctor will slowly taper your dosage when you stop taking Paxil.
Dosage
For people with SAD, a typical dosage of Paxil CR starts at 12.5 mg, with increases of 12.5 mg weekly, although there can be variability in these doses and increases. In general, elderly people will be given a lower dose.
Safety
Paxil should be used with caution if you:
Have impaired liver or kidney functionHave a history of seizuresHave a history of maniaPregnant or planning to become pregnantBreastfeeding
The effectiveness of Paxil in children and adolescents has not been studied and the medication has not been approved for people under 18 years of age. There is some evidence to suggest an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children taking Paxil.
Interactions
Paxil should not be taken in combination with, or within weeks of taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), thioridazine, or pimozide. The result of such combinations can be fatal. Caution should be used when taking a number of other medications in combination with Paxil, such as anticoagulants and anti-inflammatories. Consumption of alcohol is also not advised while taking Paxil. In general, you should inform your doctor of any prescription or over-the-counter medications, or any other substances that you are taking or plan to take.
Side Effects
Side effects of Paxil generally appear early in the initiation of the drug, can often improve with time, and may include the following:
NauseaDrowsinessInsomniaSweatingTremorsWeakness/loss of strengthDizzinessDry mouthSexual dysfunctionConstipationDiarrheaGasNervousnessDecreased appetiteWeight gain
When first starting Paxil or when changing the dosage, watch for more serious side effects such as agitation, hostility, panic, extreme hyperactivity, and suicidal thoughts and behaviors. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is important to report these to your doctor immediately. For some people, Paxil may interfere with judgment, thinking, and motor skills. It is important not to operate dangerous machinery or participate in hazardous activities unless you are sure that Paxil is not affecting you in this way.
Risks
The risk of a fatal overdose of Paxil is very low. Symptoms of an overdose may include the following:
DizzinessDrowsinessFacial flushingNauseaSweatingVomitingComa
When combined with some medications, there is a risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially fatal condition. Symptoms of Serotonin Syndrome include the following:
AgitationConfusionSweatingHallucinationsAbnormal reflexesMuscle spasms Rapid heartbeat
If you’ve been prescribed Paxil, you may be worried and wondering what to expect. Take a deep breath, and know that your doctor has chosen this SSRI as the best form of treatment for your social anxiety. If you are still concerned or have further questions, don’t feel embarrassed to ask them or have a family member ask. The more informed you are about your medication treatment, the better of an experience it will be. Below is a list of other related anxiety medications that you could be prescribed.
Other Anxiety Medications
Ativan BuSpar Effexor XR Klonopin Lexapro Luvox CR Prozac Valium Vistaril Xanax Zoloft
For more mental health resources, see our National Helpline Database.
