Paxil (Paroxetine) is an effective drug for combating major depression. It was first manufactured by GlaxoSmithKline, and is the most commonly prescribed antidepressant medication. It is only available by prescription. Paxil was the first antidepressant medication approved to treat Social Anxiety Disorder, although many other SSRI antidepressants can treat Social Anxiety Disorder as well. Paxil has also been used to treat Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.



Paxil is an SSRI, or serotonin selective reuptake inhibitor. It affects neurochemistry in the brain in an attempt to cure clinical depression caused by imbalance of neurochemicals in the brain. An imbalance of serotonin in the brain can cause depression, anxiety, or panic attacks even if there are no psychological forces affecting them. Paxil has been proven very effective in treating major depression.

Before considering taking Paxil, discuss it with your doctor to check for possible complications. Paxil, when taken with an MAOI inhibitor, such as Eldepryl, can cause fatal reactions. Pregnant mothers should not take Paxil, as it can cause damage to unborn children, and birth control should be used while you are taking Paxil, as it is difficult to stop taking Paxil once you have begun taking it, and it must be done gradually. Paxil also may pass into breast milk and affect breastfeeding children, so do not take Paxil if you are breastfeeding children.

Generally, it requires about a month before you start showing improvements in mood when you first start taking Paxil. Make sure you consult often with your doctor at this stage, as you may need to adjust dosage during this stage. Also, it is important to be observed during this stage to monitor for any signs of suicidal behavior or feelings, as Paxil has been shown to increase these feelings when you first start to take it. This is especially important for adolescents. You should also talk to your doctor if you have violent mood swings, are overly irritable, or have trouble sleeping. Take care not to overdose on Paxil, as it can lead to a potentially fatal condition called serotonin syndrome. If you miss a dose, do not take extra Paxil when it is time for your next dose.

Due to its popularity and incidence of side effects and severe SSRI withdrawal symptoms, many lawsuits have been filed against GlaxoSmithKline because of Paxil. The majority of lawsuits have been settled out of court to prevent Paxil's reputation from being tarnished.

Despite all the warnings and precautions, Paxil remains a safe and effective drug for treating major depression. Paxil has helped many people overcome their clinical depression and go on to lead happy, fulfilling lives. You must decide if the benefit of relieving depression outweighs the risk of side effects when determining whether or not to take Paxil.