Side
Effects of Paxil
Bethany Jordin - 1/28/2009
-
Understanding the Side Effects of Paxil
Paxil is an SSRI, which stands for selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor that is often effective for treating
conditions such as depression, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), anxiety disorders, panic attacks, a severe form
of PMS known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder). Taking Paxil may result
in increased energy, improved moods, the ability to sleep, improved appetite, or renewing your zest for life. The
problem is that there are quite a few side effects of Paxil that may counteract the potential benefits.
One of the side effects of Paxil is one that is shared by all antidepressant medications. That is the risk for an
increase in depression and possible thoughts of suicide. If you begin taking Paxil, adjust the dosage, or miss
doses you may notice these symptoms more acutely. If you experience a deepening sense of depression or additional
problems that include violent mood swings, excessive anger, overriding sense of despair, or thoughts of suicide or
of hurting others you should contact your physician immediately.
It is also important to understand that there are some side effects of Paxil that exacerbate pre existing
conditions. If you have a history (or a family history) of certain conditions such as suicide attempts, bipolar or
manic depressive disorder, liver and kidney problems, low blood sodium, dehydration, glaucoma, stomach ulcers, or
seizures you should discuss carefully with your physician whether or not Paxil may be the best choice for you. It
should also be avoided while pregnant in order to avoid the potential for withdrawals once the baby is born.
Physical side effects you may experience with Paxil that aren't exactly severe but may be annoying include: dry
mouth, excessive yawning, loss of appetite, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, and nausea. A decreased
interest in sex, numbness, restlessness, agitations, shakiness, and blurred vision are other side effects of Paxil
that you will want to notify your doctor about. You will also want to make sure he or she is aware of any side
effects of Paxil that include seizures, fast or irregular heartbeat, easy bruising, or vomit that hs the
consistency of coffee grounds.
Drug interactions are not necessarily side effects of Paxil but they should be avoided at all costs. Be open and
honest with your physician about any drugs (legal or not), vitamins, prescribed or over the counter medications,
and herbal supplements you are taking. Even something as simple as an aspirin can have a profound impact on your
health when taken in combination with Paxil. Aspirin, specifically, will increase your risk of bleeding when taken
in combination with Paxil. Other medications have very real and potentially fatal risks when taken along with Paxil
so open discussion is critical.
About the author:
Bethany Jordin is an Information Technology professional and aspiring writer who was clinically diagnosed with SAD
(Social Anxiety Disorder) in 2007.
Source: http://www.naturalantidepressants.info
Back to
Top
| 
Digg
Reddit
Stumbleupon
Spurl
BlinkList