Paroxetine (Paxil) is an anti-depressant drug prescribed in case of general anxiety or depression. Paroxetine (Paxil) affects the chemicals which nerves in the brain use to communicate with each other. If there is an imbalance in the amounts of the different neurotransmitters that are released, depression may be caused. Paroxetine (Paxil) works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin which allows more serotonin for the nerves to be taken up. This drug belongs to the category of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Some other drugs of the same category are fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft).
Paroxetine (Paxil) is mainly prescribed for people who are suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorders, panic disorders, depression or premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Paroxetine is given as a single daily dose which is administered to patients in the morning. It takes a few weeks to note the effect of the drug. In case of obsessive- compulsive disorder and panic disorder, the dosage may be higher than that for depression. Doses can be adjusted according to the age of the patient as well as his or her medical history.
Paroxetine (Paxil) is approved for continuous as well as intermittent therapy for premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Women generally take Pacil CR once daily for a two-week period prior to the onset of their menstrual cycle.
Pregnant and nursing mothers should avoid this medicine as most of the antidepressants have side effects, though no studies have been conducted on this. Some of the common side effects of Paroxetine (Paxil) are anxiety, sweating, nausea, decreased appetite, somnolence, dizziness, insomnia and male sexual disturbances. A dry mouth may also be caused in some cases.
Sudden withdrawal of treatment with Paroxetine (Paxil) has been associated with troublesome symptoms. Some people experience symptoms like dizziness, tiredness, tingling of the extremities, nausea, vivid dreams, irritability, and a poor mood. Apart from this, visual disturbances and headaches may also be noticed.
There have been cases where it was noticed that Paroxetine (Paxil) increased depression and worsened the situation. This drug may increase suicidal thoughts. It may also result into various other complications. Thus, the patients who are prescribed this medicine should be constantly monitored. The doctors should immediately be informed about the behavioral changes and suicidal tendencies.
To know more about antidepressants, have a look at the pages of anxietyxl.com.
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