Antidepressant drug, Paxil (generic name, Paroxetine), is prescribed to patients who suffer a range of mood and mental disorders.  These disorders include: social anxiety disorder, major depressive disorder, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and generalized anxiety disorder.  Manufactured and introduced to the market by GlaxoSmithKline in 1992, Paxil is a best-selling antidepressant.  However, the manufacturer is facing allegations that Paxil is causing severe side effects among patients and birth defects such as Paxil spina bifida, among newborns of mothers who used this drug while pregnant.

Categorized as a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) drug, Paxil works by inhibiting the reabsorption of serotonin in a person's brain.   This in turn, would lessen a person's tendency to be depressed.  Most medications warn users of potential side effects and Paxil users have reported of experiencing several.

 The typical reported side effects of Paxil include:

•           Weakness

•           Weight gain

•           Sexual dysfunction

•           Drowsiness

•           Anxiety/nervousness

•           Insomnia

•           Constipation/diarrhea

•           Dry mouth

•           Headache

The frequency of these symptoms are said to lessen once a person stays on the medication.  If it persists, however, you speak with your physician and perhaps discuss other options.  The above mentioned are the more common side effects, you should call a doctor right away if you experience the more serious side effects mentioned below:

•           Agitation

•           Impulsiveness

•           Tremors

•           Memory problems

•           Hyperacidity

Extremely rare side effects have also been reported by users of Paxil and paroxetine.  Immediate medical attention is necessary if these symptoms are experienced:

•           Seizures

•           Allergic reactions

•           Confusion

•           Hallucinations

•           Abnormal heart rate

•           Fainting

•           Suicidal thoughts

 The FDA recommends that doctors refrain from prescribing Paxil to pregnant women as studies indicated that this medication could potentially cause birth defects in newborns. Even those patients who are not pregnant reported of side effects which make this drug even more risky for pregnant patients.  Before deciding to take or to stop taking this drug, a comprehensive consultation with a medical professional is always a wise option.