Paxil for Anxiety: Effectiveness, Dosage, & More

What Is Paxil (Paroxetine)?

Paxil (paroxetine) is an FDA-approved antidepressant used for the treatment of numerous depressive and anxiety disorders.¹ It belongs to the selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) class of medications that work by balancing serotonin levels in the brain. It can be used safely by children over the age of eight, adults, and older populations. However, it is important to be aware of health conditions or substances that may influence the severity of Paxil side effects.

Paxil may be prescribed in the treatment of:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Panic disorder (PD)
• Social anxiety disorder (SAD)
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

Is Paxil Used for Anxiety?

Paxil cannot cure an anxiety disorder, but it can help reduce symptoms and play an effective part in treatment. Paxil regulates serotonin levels in the brain which play an important role in balancing one’s mood, behavior, and energy.

How Does Paxil Help With Anxiety?

Similar to other SSRIs, Paxil prolongs the action of serotonin, resulting in improvements in one’s sleep quality and emotional well-being. In turn, this can help relieve common symptoms of anxiety.

How Long Does it Take for Paxil to Work?

Typically, it takes two to four weeks for Paxil to take full effect. It is also possible that mild side effects may occur within this period.² It is important to remember that you should not stop taking your prescription if you experience these reactions. Contact a doctor if you are worried about the side effects of Paxil.

How to Take Paxil for Anxiety

Paxil is available in oral capsules, suspensions, tablets, or extended-release tablets. It is typically administered once a day in the morning, with or without food. A starting dose of Paxil is between 10 and 20 mg, with the maximum being 50 or 60 mg.¹ You should take your prescription as prescribed by your doctor.

Paxil Dosage For Anxiety

Usually, the recommended dosage of Paxil depends on several factors, including one’s age, health condition, and genetic profile. Also, the type of anxiety disorder being addressed is also considered. A doctor will generally start individuals on a smaller dose in order to determine how the drug influences their symptoms.³

A doctor can increase a person’s dosage when needed. In some cases, missing a dose can result in withdrawal symptoms, including persistent headaches and increased sweating. Talk with your doctor to understand any associated risks.

Side Effects of Paxil for Treating Anxiety

Patients may experience side effects within the first or second week following their initial Paxil dosage. These are generally mild, but vary depending on how the drug interacts with their bodies. It is important to disclose any current mental or physical health conditions you have with your doctor before taking Paxil.

Taking Paxil for anxiety increases the risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors in pediatric patients and young adults. If you or a loved one are experiencing these effects, immediately notify your doctor for further assistance.

Common Paxil side effects include:¹

• Sweating
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Weight change
• Dry mouth
• Sexual problems
• Shaking
• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Indigestion
• Sleeping problems
• Headaches

Serious Paxil side effects that may require immediate attention include:¹

• Vision problems
• Bleeding problems
• Manic episodes
• Seizures
• Serotonin syndrome
• Suicidal ideation
• Worsening anxiety symptoms
• Hyponatremia
• Discontinuation syndrome

Associated Risks of Taking Paxil for Anxiety

Paxil may result in severe side effects depending on a person’s health condition or when combined with another substance. Combining Paxil with alcohol is highly discouraged, as it can lead to overdose and sudden death. Pregnant or breastfeeding women and pediatric patients under the age of eight should not use Paxil without a doctor’s guidance.

Suddenly stopping your medication can lead to Paxil withdrawal symptoms, including sweating, dizziness, and prolonged headaches. If Paxil does not work for you or leads to unwanted results, talk with your doctor to determine a better alternative.¹

Can You Overdose on Paxil?

Overdosing on Paxil is possible, especially if you take more than recommended or mix your dose with other substances. In the case of a Paxil overdose, call 9-1-1 or seek medical assistance immediately.

Symptoms of Paxil overdose may include:

• Increased heartbeat
• Dizziness
• Vomiting
• Seizures
• Constant headaches

Substances to Avoid While Taking Paxil

Taking certain medications, herbs, or supplements alongside Paxil can change how Paxil works in your body or increase the risk for serious side effects. This article does not consider all the possible interactions. Please let your doctor, psychiatrists, and pharmacists know about all the products you currently use, such as prescription medication, nonprescription drugs, and herbal supplements. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Combining Paxil with other substances, such as other SSRIs or alcohol, can be very dangerous. These interactions can worsen or trigger the side effects of either substance.³ Moreover, taking Paxil within 14 days of stopping MAOIs increases the risk of serotonin syndrome, sometimes resulting in overdose and sudden death.¹

Substances that interact with Paxil include:¹

• Pimozide
• Thioridazine
• NSAIDs
• Other SSRIs
• Migraine medication
• Blood thinners
• Water pills
• Benzodiazepines
• MAOI inhibitors

Alternatives to Paxil for Anxiety

In some cases, Paxil may not work for an individual or result in intolerable effects. A doctor can recommend alternative medications that better suit a patient. However, it is important to note that these alternatives also come with associated side effects and risks.

Alternatives to Paxil for anxiety may include:

• Lexapro (escitalopram)
• Celexa (citalopram)
• Zoloft (sertraline)

Questions to Ask Your Health Team

Before starting your medication, it is important to consult with your doctor to learn more about associated risks and side effects. Your doctor can inform you of how any current health conditions may influence the severity of adverse reactions.

Questions to ask your care team about whether Paxil is right for you include:

• Is Paxil effective in treating anxiety?
• Is Paxil more effective than the medication I am already taking?
• Can I take Paxil with the medication I am taking?
• Will I need to change my anxiety medications if I start taking Paxil?
• Can I get a Paxil prescription online?
• What side effects am I likely to experience?
• How can I safely stop my medication?
• Does my health condition influence the severity of side effects?
• What will happen if I combine Paxil with alcohol or other medications?
• How will I know I have overdosed on Paxil?

Final Thoughts

Paxil can help relieve anxiety symptoms for users. However, it should be taken with caution and only as recommended by a doctor. Discuss any possible risks associated with the antidepressant before starting your medication. In other cases, your doctor can offer a suitable alternative for you.