People need to watch out for the side effects of the medicine that they are taking.   Side effects of antidepressants can vary with each person.  Paxil has a lot of serious side effects besides being a useful antidepressant.   In every drug or medicine, there is a pregnancy risk category and Paxil went from C to D.    Combination of antidepressants and antipsychotics in a study shows that there is an increase risk of cardiac death among its participants, which makes it dangerous to mix it together.

Antidepressants like Paxil are making depressed people vulnerable to committing suicide.  A high risk of suicide is seen in ages below 24 when they are taking Paxil.   Any signs of suicide like a change in the behavior of someone taking Paxil should be reported to their doctor for proper intervention.  Contact a physician for any changes of behavior like being more irritable.

Less serious side effects of Paxil are tolerable for some.  Examples of these are yawning or drowsiness, sleep problems like insomnia, dizziness and nervousness.  Some also complained about dry mouth, nausea, diarrhea and constipation with minimal weight changes.   Impotence and decrease libido are also noted for Paxil users. Ringing in the ears is also one common side effect for Paxil.

All of the following severe side effects of Paxil need to be consulted to a doctor the soonest possible time.   Be on guard for bruising that may also indicate bleeding, weakness, confusion, fainting, memory problems and especially seizures.  One might also experience severe allergic reactions like swelling of face, lips or tongue, difficulty in breathing, difficulty swallowing and fever.   Some may have tremors, rigid muscles, overactive reflexes, irregular and fast heartbeat and sweating.

Birth defects are the major concern of women that are pregnant while taking Paxil, however to put an end to Paxil may let them have a relapse into depression. It is better to consult with a physician first if one is taking Paxil and has plans in getting pregnant.  Many mothers who have babies with Paxil birth defects have taken a step in filing a case against the manufacturer.


URL References:

  • rxlist.com/paxil-drug-patient.htm
  • panicdisorder.about.com/od/treatments/a/paxil.htm
  • bipolar.about.com/cs/sfx/a/sfx_paxil.htm