Paxil Withdrawal Symptoms
Antidepressants in the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) class of drugs can be some of the most difficult to discontinue. A person being treated for depression cannot stop taking a medication like Paxil “cold turkey” without experiencing withdrawal symptoms. In fact, some antidepressants have such a short lifespan in some patients’ bodies, that withdrawal can sometimes start if the recommended dose is not taken at the same time each day. Not every patient will experience the same symptoms, but unless the patient is gradually weaned off the medication, he or she is sure to experience some Paxil withdrawal symptoms.
What are Some Paxil Withdrawl Symptoms?
There is varying data and opinions about what happens when a patient attempts to discontinue his or her antidepressants. Symptoms will typically present themselves within days of stopping the medication, and will consist of gastrointestinal distress, faintness, flu-like symptoms, headache and strange sensations of vision or touch. Additionally, depression could worsen and be accompanied by anxiety and irritability. About 20 percent of patients will experience these symptoms, with 15 percent describing their symptoms as moderate, and 5 percent as severe.Experts claim these symptoms can occur with all types of antidepressants, but they are most prevalent when a patient is taking an SSRI.
Constant Communication With Your Doctor is Important
Discontinuation must be a collaborative effort between patient and doctor. The timing of it is important as well as the steps taken to stop the medication. There are many factors to consider, including preventing a relapse of depression. The first few weeks after discontinuation will indicate whether or not any symptoms represent depression, or if there is a new cause for anxiety.
Taking Paxil or another SSRI can pose serious risks to the individual, especially if it is taken by women who are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant. For most people, the benefits outweigh the risks, but it is important to be informed about how difficult stopping the medication can be. It is always best to speak to a qualified medical professional before embarking on a course of treatment that includes Paxil, or another SSRI. Paxil is known to cause severe birth defects in infants born to mothers who took the drug while pregnant.
Protect Your Rights as a Consumer
The Paxil lawyers at the Rottenstein Law Group have over 25 years of collective experience advocating for individuals in consumer product injury and mass tort cases. If you want compensation because you believe your medication injured you or your child, and you believe you have cause to sue GlaxoSmithKline, then fill out our contact form and one of our lawyers will be in touch.
For more information about whether filing a Paxil lawsuit is the best course of action for you, download our free brochure.