Paxil

Treat Depression and Anxiety Disorders with Paxil

Paxil is a medication that may be prescribed for the treatment of clinical depression, a debilitating mental disorder that causes feelings of prolonged sadness and hopelessness because of certain brain chemical imbalances. The drug may also be prescribed if you are living with other mental disorders (such as generalized anxiety disorder, post traumatic stress disorder, or obsessive compulsive disorder), which tend to have similar origins.

Paxil is available as a pill that is to be taken orally. It can also be found in its generic form, as Paroxetine. To purchase Paxil, you must obtain a valid prescription from your doctor. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

How Paxil Improves the Symptoms of Depression

Paxil is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which means that it affects the way your brain uses the mood-boosting brain chemical serotonin. When taken as directed, Paxil works to inhibit the re-uptake (absorption) of serotonin so there is more of this neurotransmitter circulating in your brain. This action stabilizes your mood so you will feel more like yourself and be able to function better.

Other Conditions Treated by Paxil

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is characterized by unreasonable thoughts and fears (obsessions) that lead you to perform repetitive behaviors (compulsions). OCD obsessions are repeated, persistent and unwanted urges or images that cause distress or anxiety. OCD compulsions are repetitive behaviors that you feel driven to perform in an effort to prevent or reduce anxiety related to your obsessions or prevent something bad from happening. Symptoms usually begin gradually and tend to vary in severity throughout your life. Symptoms generally worsen when you’re experiencing more stress. OCD can be so severe and time-consuming that it becomes disabling.

Paxil is not a cure for clinical depression, OCD, or other anxiety disorders or conditions, but it will minimize your symptoms by increasing the amount of serotonin available to your brain.

Before You Begin Treatment with Paxil

Ask your doctor if Paxil is safe to take during pregnancy, while breast feeding, or if you become pregnant during your treatment. Tell your healthcare provider about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Paxil. Advise your doctor of other medical conditions you have so it can be determined if Paxil is right for your situation.

Precautions for Paxil

Refrain from driving or other activities that may be unsafe until you know how your body will react to Paxil. Keep all medications out of children’s reach and never share any meds with others. Avoid drinking alcohol, which may worsen potential side effects of Paxil. Do not stop taking Paxil suddenly without talking to your doctor first.

Possible Paxil Side Effects

Nausea
Drowsiness, weakness, or dizziness
Dry mouth
Sweating
Blurred vision
Yawning

Drugs Similar to Paxil

Prozac
Lexapro Oral Solution
Zoloft