It belongs to a group of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
SSRIs are first-line drugs used for treating anxiety disorders, along with serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).
At first, they thought that simply increasingserotoninlevels reduced symptoms associated with anxiety.
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What Is Serotonin?
Serotonin is aneurotransmitter, meaning that the brain and nervous system use it to communicate.
This naturally occurring chemical plays a role in various processes, including mood regulation and memory function.
Get our printable guide to help you ask the right questions at your next doctor’s appointment.
Low levels of serotonin are associated with depression and anxiety.
But SSRIs correct serotonin imbalances within 24 hours.
This restructuring takes time.
Thats why it usually takes four to six weeks for the full benefit of the drug to kick in.
SSRIs such as Paxil are typically the first medications tried for treating GAD.
If Paxil doesn’t provide relief, another SSRI may be tried.
If that doesn’t work, the next step is an SNRI.
If the GAD is not responsive to that, atricyclic antidepressantor antipsychotic medication may be prescribed.
Research shows that Paxil is effective for reducing anxiety in people with GAD, regardless of gender and race.
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The dosage may need to be adjusted or you might need to switch to a different medication.
If any of these are experienced, medical attention is required.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
you’re free to take Paxil with or without food, at any time of the day.
You don’t want to double your dose.
Paxil is not approved for use by children, nor should it be used during pregnancy or when breastfeeding.
Avoid alcohol and drugs while taking Paxil, as they may decrease its benefits.
It can take some time to figure out the bestGAD treatmentfor you.
So, be patient and keep your healthcare provider informed about what is and isn’t working for you.
Additionally, be sure to communicate any issues that arise (such as side effects).
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