Paxil Side Effects

Paxil – An Antidepressant in the SSRI Family

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Paxil (paroxetine, Paxil CR) is an antidepressant belonging to the class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI). It has been available for the treatment of depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, panic disorder and social anxiety disorder since 1992.

Some Common Side Effects of Paxil

SSRIs have been very successful in treating depression without the severe side effects associated with their predecessors. However, there are still some significant side effects associated with SSRIs; in particular Paxil, which has been known to cause significant weight gain in some patients. Other Paxil side effects may include the following:

  • Sexual dysfunction
  • Nausea
  • Insomnia
  • Constipation
  • High blood pressure
  • Headache
  • Agitation

Paxil Modified Its Warning Label

Several years ago, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) modified its warning labeling of Paxil and other SSRIs to include words of caution regarding the occurrence of suicidal thoughts and tendencies among some users of the drugs. Paxil in particular may increase instances of suicidal ideation or behavior when prescribed to children or adolescents.

Birth Defects and Pregnancy

Pregnant women need to be especially careful when taking Paxil or another SSRI, as they have been proven to cause significant birth defects. Included among these abnormalities are serious cardiac and pulmonary defects, as well as cranial and spinal malformations, and instances of cleft lip/palate and limb deformities. Women who are considering becoming pregnant, or who are taking Paxil during pregnancy should consult their gynecologists and mental health professionals to determine whether continuing treatment for depression is a prudent course of action, given the risk of having a baby born with one or more potential defects.

Drinking Alcohol While on Paxil is Discouraged

Consumption of alcohol while taking SSRIs is generally discouraged, although some physicians believe that “moderate” consumption (1 or 2 drinks per day) is not harmful.

The side effects listed here are just a few of the many potential difficulties that can occur when taking Paxil. It is always best to speak to a physician or mental health professional about whether or not benefits of taking an SSRI to treat depression or anxiety outweigh the risks of experiencing one or more of these side effects.

First, Get the Facts

Even when all the proper precautions are taken, it is still possible for you or a loved one to sustain an injury from taking Paxil. If you believe you have been harmed by Paxil, the Rottenstein Law Group can advocate on your behalf to help obtain compensation for pain and suffering, lost wages and unforeseen medical costs. Our Paxil lawyers have over 25 years of experience handling consumer product injury and mass tort cases.

Speak to a Lawyer

Contact us to receive a free and confidential evaluation, including whether or not you are eligible for compensation from GlaxoSmithKline, the manufacturer of Paxil.

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