Why Paxil Is Taken In Depression

The generic name of Paxil is Paroxetine. It is a popular antidepressant used for the treatment of depression along with anxiety disorders as well. Some of the anxiety disorders that can be treated using Paxil include:

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
• Social anxiety disorder
• Panic disorder

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also approved the use of Paxil to help women in managing hot flashes that is commonly observed along with menopause. Sometimes doctors also prescribe Paxil for treating some conditions that are “off label” which the FDA has approved. Some doctors use Paxil for treating chronic headaches and tingling feelings in the feet and hands that are commonly observed in people having diabetes.

In case of premature ejaculation as well, Paxil can be prescribed to patients. Women can also be relieved from the psychological and physical symptoms that they experience every month when on their menstrual cycle.

Paxil belong to the group of antidepressant medications known as the selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitor (SSRIs).

SSRIs mainly target the serotonin levels in the body, an important neurotransmitter used by neurons for communicating from one to the other. In most situations, Paxil is used along with other drugs in a combination therapy where other drugs are also used to bring out a desired outcome.

Paxil Use in Depression

As mentioned earlier, Paxil is one of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Serotonin is one of the most important neurotransmitters necessary for the positive feelings experienced by an individual. When there is a deficiency of serotonin in the body, it can result in depressive symptoms. Hence, SSRIs aim to elongate the duration of the withdrawal of serotonin from the synaptic cleft. This in turn, helps in elevating the feelings of happiness in the individual. Serotonin is quite helpful in releasing other conditions like anxiety, hot flashes, stress, and compulsions as well.

Side Effects of Paxil

Paxil is no doubt an effective drug for treating symptoms associated to depression and other conditions; it is bound to bring about certain bodily changes in the form of side effects as it crosses the Blood Brain Barrier (BBB). Some may experience drowsiness, and some may feel that are having difficulty in thinking or acting clearly. Their ability to make decisions can also be affected. As the drug is known to affect the individual, he/she should not be driving any vehicle, or operating any form of heavy machinery. Some of the commonly observed side effects are mentioned below:

• Constipation
• Delayed ejaculation
• Sleeplessness or anxiousness
• Impotence
• Nausea
• Weakness
• Vomiting headache
• Decreased appetite
• Shaking
• Restlessness, irritability, or anger
• Thoughts of suicide
• Worsened depressive symptoms
• Dangerous impulses
• Changes in vision
• Eye pain
• Redness or swelling around the eyes

These side effects are mild in their form and usually subside in a few days. If they seem to be severe, you must contact your doctor immediately.