My Depression Medication

Paxil, one of the well-known SSRIs on the market today, has actually many uses. Basically, it works on a chemical on the brain called serotonin, that is considered very vital in controlling moods.

Normally, Paxil slows down the process of reabsorption associated with serotonin to eventually maintain balanced chemical levels and prevent some disorders like depression.

Uses of Paxil

As what aforementioned, Paxil has many uses. Basically, it can be prescribed for some emotional problems and disorders just like:

• Major depression that interferes with your daily functioning.
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) which is an illness that is marked by unwanted, persistent thoughts and repeated behaviors.
• Panic disorder that is a degrading emotional problem.
• Generalized anxiety disorder which is an illness that is marked by severe anxiety and worry.
• Social anxiety disorder or social phobia which is a condition marked by unusual, intense shyness in social events or gatherings.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder which is a disabling condition that is caused by a particular horrifying experience in the past.

  * In case of Paxil CR, the controlled-released version:

• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder which is a condition that has something to do with a woman’s menstrual period.

Possible Side Effects

Paxil, just like most potent drugs, when taken has some side effects that may last for a period of time. Normally, the side effects include:

• Nausea
• Nervousness
• Abnormal ejaculation
• Abnormal orgasm
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Weakness
• Vertigo
• Drowsiness
• Decreased appetite
• Decreased sex drive
• Diarrhea
• Dry mouth
• Impotence
• Sweating
• Tremor
• Male and female genital disorders
• Sleeplessness

Special Consideration and Warning

Paxil, when used together with some thioridazine or some other drugs classified as monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors like Nardil and Parnate, can cause some serious, life-threatening effects.

Thus, if in case you are taking any of the medications (MAO inhibitors or thioridazine), consult a doctor about it for you to have a proper advice and prescription.

Paxil on Pregnancy Issues

Women who are pregnant and still planning to be pregnant soon are actually not advised to take Paxil because indeed of some possible unlikely effects and complications that may take place, most especially on the part of the baby.

This also goes the same with the case of nursing mothers as Paxil may appear in breast milk and eventually could badly affect a nursing infant.