Paxil

Paxil (also known as Paroxetine) is a type of antidepressant medication that belongs to a group of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is used to treat a variety of mental health disorders, including depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

History

Paxil was developed by the pharmaceutical company GlaxoSmithKline and was first approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1992. It was one of the first SSRIs to be approved for use in the United States.

Mechanism of Action

Paxil works by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, sleep, and other functions. By blocking the reuptake of serotonin, Paxil allows more of this neurotransmitter to be available in the brain, which can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Side Effects

Like all medications, Paxil can cause side effects. Common side effects include nausea, sleep problems, dizziness, and sexual problems. In rare cases, Paxil can cause serious side effects, such as serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when there is too much serotonin in the brain.

Controversies

Paxil has been the subject of several controversies, including lawsuits related to its side effects and withdrawal symptoms. In 2002, the FDA issued a warning about the risk of suicide in children and adolescents treated with Paxil. In 2004, the warning was expanded to include adults.

See Also

• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
• Antidepressant
• Serotonin