Paxil (generic name: paroxetine) is a medication used to manage anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, post-traumatic stress disorder and premenstrual dysmorphic disorder (PMDD). According to Drugs.com, Paxil is a serotonin reuptake inhibitor that keeps serotonin (a chemical in your brain) readily available in your brain. This subsequently helps your mood. Typically, you will take a dose of 25 to 62.5mg of Paxil daily, depending on your condition, says the National Library of Medicine.
Common Side Effects
Paxil can cause vomiting, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, flatulence (gas), heartburn and changes in your weight, says MedlinePlus. Other routine side effects include a poor appetite, dry mouth, diaphoresis (sweating), a runny nose and cough. Paxil may affect your psychological state and cause trouble concentrating, nervousness, confusion, memory loss and strange dreams. It can cause light sensitivity, flushing of your skin, teeth problems, menstrual irregularities, and pain in your muscles and joints. Notify your physician if these symptoms occur for three or more days.
Harmful Side Effects
Drugs.com says that Paxil can cause such harmful side effects as muscle stiffness, unsteadiness, lack of coordination, tachycardia (a fast heartbeat), an irregular heartbeat, a high fever and convulsions. It may also cause headaches, hallucinations, irregular breathing, and unusual bleeding or bruising. The National Library of Medicine warns that Paxil may worsen your psychiatric symptoms and result in suicidal thoughts or actions. Paxil may also lead to potentially fatal conditions called serotonin syndrome or neuroleptic malignant-like syndrome. Some symptoms of serotonin syndrome include changes in your blood pressure, agitation, vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. Symptoms of neuroleptic malignant-like syndrome are the following: high body temperature (hyperthermia), muscle stiffness and changes in your mental status. Paxil can also cause hyponatremia (low sodium levels). Symptoms of hyponatremia include headache, confusion, weakness, fainting coma, respiratory arrest and even death.
Warnings
Do not take Paxil with monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) medications such as pimozide, isocarboxacid or phenilzine, says Drugs.com. Paxil can interact with MAOIs and cause the aforementioned side effects.
Avoid Paxil if you are allergic to Paxil or its ingredients. You can suffer from hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of your face or tongue.
Tell your doctor if you have liver, kidney, blood, epilepsy (a seizure disorder) or bipolar disorder. Paxil may worsen these conditions.
Drug.com warns that you should immediately discontinue Paxil if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Paxil can cause heart defects and potentially fatal lung problems in your baby.
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