Paxil went on the market in 1992 at the height of antidepressant drug popularity
There are a number of ways to get rid of panic attacks. While some opt for more natural techniques such as relaxation and breathing exercises, others may prefer a more direct head on solution using medication. Below are some of the more common drugs for panic attacks that can be used to minimise the symptoms, be sure to understand the nature of your attacks before consulting your doctor about a prescription.
Serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SRI's) are by far the most common drug available; one name you may have heard of for this drug is Paxil. These are usually prescribed for depression but also aid in anxiety. They are particularly useful for social anxiety and generalized anxiety disorders and are often prescribed first as unlike many others there is minimal risk of drug dependency and side effects.
Paxil went on the market in 1992 at the height of antidepressant drug popularity.
Paxil grew successful very quickly by gaining FDA approval for very specific conditions like social anxiety disorder and general anxiety disorder, which were very rare conditions at the time.
Paxil insist that the drug has no side effects and is not addicting
Commercials for Paxil insist that the drug has no side effects and is not addicting, major selling point. Many doctors and pharmacies will tell you the same thing, that Paxil is not addictive. To the contrary, many patients using Paxil have found it very difficult to quit. Even slowly reducing doses and coming off the drug, many patients have complained of intense stomach pains, diarrhea, intense anxiety, anger, migraines, and an odd electrical zapping whenever they move their heads or eyes. These symptoms are often written off as temporary illness due to discontinuity. After a few months, the symptoms will be diagnosed as a relapse of depression, and what could be prescribed for that? Paxil.
A recent independent study found that as many as 50% of Paxil users experience intense withdrawal from the drug. While some other drugs in the same class, like Prozac and Zoloft, cause similar withdrawal reactions none of them cause reactions this intense. This could be because Paxil has a much shorter half-life than the other antidepressants, and more addicting substances often have short half-lives. The brain likes slow adjustments and cannot handle rapidly changing chemicals.
PAXIL AND WHY ITS SO POPULAR ?
When Paxil ( paroxetine) first hit the market, doctors and patients have turned it into one of the most successful prescriptions antidepressants in history. Doctors regularly prescribe it to patients suffering from depression, panic attacks and phobias.
When and How to Take Paxil ?
General considerations for when and how to take Paxil include the following:
Paxil comes in tablet and suspension (liquid) form. You take it by mouth, usually once a day.
Make sure to shake the liquid form well before each dose.
If the medication makes you drowsy, try taking it before bedtime. If Paxil causes insomnia , try taking it in the morning. Most people take Paxil in the morning.
You can take Paxil with or without food. If the medication bothers your stomach, try taking it with food.
Take Paxil at the same time each day. This will help maintain an even level in your blood.
For Paxil to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. The medicine will not work if you stop taking it.
Dosing Information
The dose of Paxil you are prescribed will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
Your age
The medical condition being treated
Other medical conditions you may have
Other medications you may be taking.
In general, the recommended starting dosage is Paxil 20 mg once daily (usually in the morning). However, the starting dose for treating panic disorder and for elderly people or people with liver or kidney problems is lower: Paxil 10 mg once daily. Your healthcare provider may choose to increase the dosage if symptoms continue, or decrease the dose if Paxil side effects occur.
The maximum Paxil dosage is 50 mg (for depression, generalized anxiety disorder, or post-traumatic stress disorder) or 60 mg (for social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, or obsessive-compulsive disorder).
Side Effects of Paxil
The most common side effects include:
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Nausea
Insomnia
Drowsiness
Weakness
Dry mouth
Headache
Constipation
What If I Take an Overdose?
People who take too much Paxil may have overdose symptoms that could include:
Nausea and vomiting
Shakiness (tremor)
Rapid heart rate (tachycardia) or slow heart rate (bradycardia)
Confusion
Dizziness
Seizures
Irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
High blood pressure (hypertension) or low blood pressure (hypotension)
Aggressiveness
Fainting
Muscle pain or muscle stiffness
Liver problems, including hepatitis
Kidney failure
Coma
Loss of life.
Proper storage of Paxil :
Paxil should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture or heat. It should be kept in an airtight container.
Keep Paxil and all medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Paxil as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Disclaimer
This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.
