Paxil Side Effects

Paxil is the brand name for the antidepressant drug paroxetine. Distributed by GlaxoSmithKline, Paxil is categorized as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which helps restore the natural chemical balance in the brain and improve certain mood problems. Doctors prescribe Paxil to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety disorders, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Warning

• Paxil, like other antidepressant medications, carries a black box warning required by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. The label warns about increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior associated with these drugs, especially in people under 24 years old.

Psychological Signs

• Symptoms and signs to watch for include aggression, anxiety, hyperactivity, increasing depression, mania or bipolar symptoms, panic attacks, or thoughts about suicide.

Birth Defects

• Paxil may cause life-threatening birth defects in newborn babies if the mother takes the medication during pregnancy. Additionally, Paxil can pass into breast milk and harm a baby.

Additional Serious Effects

• Other serious but rare side effects associated with Paxil include fever, signs of abnormal bleeding, fainting, hallucinations, irregular heartbeat, loss of coordination, rigid muscles, and seizures.

Common Side Effects

• Common and less serious side effects include constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, increased perspiration, insomnia, indigestion, nausea, sexual dysfunction, tremors and weakness.