Ask an Expert: How to Replace Paxil

Pharmacy and Medications

How to Replace Paxil
02/09/2010

Question:

I have been on Paxil for over 15 yrs. The main side effect is that I sweat so easy that I soak my clothes whether it be casual or dress. I rarely wear a coat in the winter. If the room or church or any public area is just a few degrees above normal I am a mess with in 30 minutes. I read that besides the sexual side effect, that sweating is next and I do have a major problem with this. Could you suggest a different medication that I could talk to my GP about that would still work for the anxiety and depression that I take it for. I only take 20m a day.

Answer:

There are alternative treatments that may be helpful for your anxiety and depression while minimizing the side effects that you are experiencing. Continued requirements of Paxil or a change of dosage may be the first alternative. Your history of depression and anxiety as well as any concurrent medications, medical conditions, and the duration of time that you have been experiencing this side effect may also help with which direction to go.

All of this history must be shared with your primary care physician before a decision can be made. Any changes should probably be done slowly to minimize any discontinuation syndrome, which is common with Paxil.

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Response by:

Nicholas A Votolato, RPh BCPP
Clinical Assistant Professor
Department of Psychiatry
College of Medicine
The Ohio State University