Anxiety and Stress Disorders

Side Effects of Paxil Reduction

05/28/2003 10:12AM

Question:

I have been on Paxil for several years. I have had trouble getting off of it. The first time I felt like a short curcit occured every once in a while. I was told to reduce my dosage on a plan but I could not continue as the same thing occured I now have problems with the tingling all over, feeling like pins and needles sticking me, with half a dose. I would like to get off all together but don`t know how.

Answer:

Paxil (or paroxetine)is a commonly used antidepressant in the selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor (SSRI) class of drugs. It has a relatively short half-life, meaning the body more quickly metabolizes this medication and clears it from the body, compared to other SSRI`s. Because of this, Paxil is more prone to some withdrawal symptoms. These symptoms include many of the same symptoms that some people have when they are depressed, such as anxiety, nervousness and irritability. These withdrawal symptoms tend to lessen and disappear over a week - 10 days. If the symptoms remain past that time, then it may be that they are not withdrawal symptoms, but are symptoms of the original depression that are returning because the body still needs treatment for the depression. Work closely with your physician when stopping any major medication such as Paxil. It may be some temporary withdrawal symptoms, or you may still have some depression or anxiety that needs treatment. Good luck.

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Response by:

Nancy Elder, MD
Associate Professor
Department of Family Medicine
College of Medicine
University of Cincinnati