48 hours<\/strong>. <\/p>\n\n\n\nThis article discusses suicide, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or is in crisis, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline immediately at 800-273-8255.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t<\/th> | Paxil<\/th> | Effexor XR<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n |
\n\n\tDrug Class<\/strong><\/td>Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)<\/td> | Selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | \n\tBrand \/ Generic Status<\/strong><\/td>Brand name for paroxetine \n \n<\/td> | Brand name for venlafaxine (extended-release formula)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | \n\tForm(s) of the Drug<\/strong><\/td>\u2022 Color-coded tablets \n\u2022 Time-release tablets \n\u2022 Orange-colored and flavored liquid suspension \n<\/td> | \u2022 Extended-release capsules<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | \n\tStandard Dosage<\/strong><\/td>Time-release tablets: \n\u2022 37.5mg of paroxetine \n \nColor-coded tablets: \n\u2022 Yellow: 10 mg \n\u2022 Pink: 20 mg \n\u2022 Blue: 30 mg \n\u2022 Green: 40 mg \n \nLiquid suspension: \n\u2022 5mg of suspension contains 10mg of paroxetine \n<\/td> | Extended-release capsules: \n\u2022 37.5mg \n\u2022 75mg \n\u2022 150 mg \n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | \n\tConditions Treated<\/strong><\/td>FDA-approved uses: \n\u2022 Major depression \n \nOff-label uses: \n\u2022 Anxiety \n\u2022 Panic disorder \n\u2022 Insomnia \n<\/td> | FDA-approved uses: \n\u2022 Major depressive disorder \n\u2022 Panic disorder \n\u2022 Social anxiety disorder \n\u2022 Generalized anxiety disorder \n \nOff-label uses: \n\u2022 Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) \n\u2022 Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) \n\u2022 Diabetic neuropathy \n\u2022 Hot flashes \n\u2022 Migraine prevention \n\u2022 Complex pain syndromes \n\u2022 Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) \n\u2022 Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) \n\u2022 Fibromyalgia \n \n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | \n\tCost<\/strong><\/td>Generic form (paroxetine): \n\u2022 $4 to $25 for a 30-day supply \n \nBrand-name: \n\u2022 $280 for a 30-day supply \n<\/td> | Generic form (venalfaxine): \n\u2022 $13 to $48 for a 30-day supply \n \nBrand-name: \n\u2022 $580 to $640 for a 30-day supply \n \n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | \n\tSide-Effects<\/strong><\/td>Common side effects: \n\u2022 Changes in vision \n\u2022 Weakness, drowsiness, or dizziness \n\u2022 Sweating or shaking \n\u2022 Anxiety \n\u2022 Insomnia \n\u2022 Loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting \n\u2022 Diarrhea or constipation \n\u2022 Dry mouth \n\u2022 Infections \n\u2022 Headaches \n\u2022 Decreased sex drive or impotence \n\u2022 Abnormal ejaculation or difficulty orgasming \n \nSerious side effects: \n\u2022 Racing thoughts \n\u2022 Decreased need for sleep \n\u2022 Unusual risk-taking behaviors \n\u2022 Extreme feelings of happiness or sadness \n\u2022 Being more talkative than usual \n\u2022 Blurred vision or tunnel vision \n\u2022 Eye pain, swelling, or seeing halos around lights \n\u2022 Bone pain, tenderness, swelling, or bruising \n\u2022 Changes in weight or appetite \n\u2022 Coughing up blood or bleeding from your nose, mouth, or rectum \n\u2022 Unusual vaginal bleeding \n\u2022 Stiff or rigid muscles \n\u2022 High fever, sweating, tremors, or fainting \n\u2022 Fast, uneven heartbeat \n\u2022 Headaches \n\u2022 Confusion or slurred speech \n\u2022 Severe weakness, lost coordination, or feeling unsteady \n \n<\/td> | Common side effects: \n\u2022 Headache, dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness \n\u2022 Anxiety, nervousness, restlessness \n\u2022 Sleep disturbances \n\u2022 Strange dreams \n\u2022 Changes in weight or appetite \n\u2022 Dry mouth, increased yawning \n\u2022 Increased sweating \n\u2022 Sexual dysfunction \n\u2022 Tremors \n\u2022 Heart racing \n\u2022 Blurred vision \n\u2022 Nausea and vomiting \n\u2022 Diarrhea or constipation \n \nSerious side effects: \n\u2022 Seizures \n\u2022 Blurred vision\/seeing halos around lights \n\u2022 Difficulty breathing\/chest tightness \n\u2022 Abnormal bleeding \n\u2022 Unnaturally stiff muscles \n\u2022 Low blood sodium\u2014confusion, headaches and memory problems \n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n | \n\tWarnings For Use<\/strong><\/td>Contraindicated conditions: \n\u2022 Bipolar disorder \n\u2022 History of suicide attempts \n\u2022 Liver or kidney problems \n\u2022 Bleeding problems \n\u2022 Low sodium in the blood \n\u2022 Peptic ulcer disease \n\u2022 Seizure disorders \n\u2022 Thyroid disease \n\u2022 Angle-closure type glaucoma \n\u2022 Pregnancy or breastfeeding \n \nAdverse drug interactions: \n\u2022 Thioridazine \n\u2022 Clopidogrel \n\u2022 NSAIDs \n\u2022 Warfarin \n\u2022 Aspirin \n\u2022 Atomoxetine \n\u2022 Phenothiazines \n\u2022 Pimozide, \n\u2022 Risperidone \n\u2022 Tamoxifen \n\u2022 Tetrabenazine \n\u2022 Antiarrhythmic medications \n\u2022 TCA antidepressants \n\u2022 Antihistamines \n\u2022 Sleep aids \n\u2022 Muscle relaxants \n\u2022 Opiate-based pain relievers or cough suppressants \n\u2022 Water pills (may cause salt imbalance) \n\u2022 MAOIs may cause a fatal reaction \n\u2022 Alcohol \n\u2022 Marijuana \n \n<\/td> | Contraindicated conditions: \n\u2022 Hypertension \n\u2022 Interstitial lung disease \n\u2022 Glaucoma \n\u2022 Hyponatremia, or SIADH \n\u2022 Seizure disorder \n\u2022 Liver disease \n\u2022 Kidney disease \n\u2022 Bipolar disorder \n \nAdverse drug interactions: \n\u2022 MAOIs \n\u2022 Blood thinners \n\u2022 Other antidepressants \n\u2022 Cimetidine \n\u2022 Tramadol \n\u2022 St. John\u2019s Wort \n\u2022 Tryptophan \n\u2022 Weight-loss medicine \n\u2022 Mood disorder medication \n\u2022 Migraine medication \n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\nAbout SSRIs and SNRIs<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nSSRIs and SNRIs treat anxiety and depression in different ways. Paxil is an SSRI or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, and Effexor is an SNRI or selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. Paxil increases the level of serotonin and dopamine in the synapses of the brain, whereas Effexor increases serotonin and norepinephrine. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Low levels of serotonin and norepinephrine are associated with symptoms of depression and anxiety. Both antidepressants help alleviate symptoms by increasing one or both neurotransmitters, reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.<\/p>\n\n\n\n To better understand the differences between Paxil and Effexor, it\u2019s important to look at what each neurotransmitter affects. <\/p>\n\n\n\n What Does Serotonin Do?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nSerotonin affects the following bodily functions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \n- Mood<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Digestion<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Nausea<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Sleep<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Sexual health<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Wound healing <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Bone health<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
What Does Dopamine Do?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nDopamine affects the following bodily functions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \n- Pleasurable reward and motivation<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Attention<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Memory<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Behavior and cognition<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Sleep and arousal<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Mood<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Learning<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Lactation<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Movement<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
What does Norepinephrine Do?<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nNorepinephrine affects the following bodily functions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \n- Fight-or-flight response<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Alertness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Arousal<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Attention<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Constricts blood vessels<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Mood <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Memory<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Though these neurotransmitters all have a hand in regulating mood, they also affect other systems in the body. This leads to the main side effect differences between Paxil and Effexor, which we\u2019ll address in the following sections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n What Is Paxil?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\nPaxil (paroxetine hydrochloride) helps increase the amount of available serotonin in the synapses of the brain\u2014the regions where brain cells (called neurons) communicate with one another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Normally, after the serotonin is used, the neuron reabsorbs it in a process known as \u201creuptake.\u201d When a person has chronically low serotonin levels, reuptake can deplete what little serotonin is left. SSRIs work by blocking the reuptake channels, keeping serotonin in circulation. Over time, SSRIs can restore serotonin levels in patients.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Paxil Forms and Doses<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nPaxil comes in capsule, tablet, and liquid form. Additionally, there are controlled-release (Paxil CR) capsules available. Depending on the condition being treated, starting doses of immediate-release Paxil may vary.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Dosages range from 20 mg\u2014a typical starting dose\u2014to 60 mg, which is the maximum dosage. For extended-release Paxil, doses range between 12.5 and 62.5 mg per day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Paxil is taken once daily with or without food, usually in the mornings. If you experience drowsiness as a side effect, talk to your doctor about possibly taking Paxil in the evening. <\/p>\n\n\n\n Conditions Paxil Treats<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIn addition to major depressive disorder (MDD), Paxil is used to treat:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \n- Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Panic disorder<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Postpartum depression<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Social anxiety disorder<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Post-menopausal symptoms<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Symptoms of Depression Paxil Can Treat<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\nPaxil can help treat the following symptoms of depression:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \n- Loss of interest in activities that used to bring joy<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Changes in appetite<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Depressed mood<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, hopelessness, and helplessness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Fatigue<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Trouble concentrating<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Psychomotor agitation\u2014or having nervous energy<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Psychomotor retardation\u2014or feeling trapped in slow motion<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Crying<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Suicidal thoughts or behaviors<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Symptoms of Anxiety Paxil Can Treat<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\nPaxil can help reduce the following symptoms of chronic anxiety:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \n- Excessive anxiety, panic, or feelings of doom<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Irritability<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Restlessness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Unwanted, compulsive thoughts<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Panic attacks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Paxil Costs<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nFor 30 tablets of 20 mg Paxil, the cost ranges from $4.00 to $30.00. Prices vary due to location, insurance, and pharmacy deals or coupons. Liquid suspensions of Paxil cost more\u2014ranging from $120 to $310.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Paxil Side Effects<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nTaking Paxil comes with a risk of possible side effects (like any antidepressant). For many, noticeable side effects subside over time. It\u2019s important to remember that your medical provider believes the potential benefits of taking Paxil outweigh any side effects you may experience. Still, it\u2019s crucial to fully understand the risks before taking any antidepressants, including Paxil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Common Side Effects of Paxil<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\nFor many users of Paxil, side effects subside with time. Here are commonly reported side effects of Paxil. Talk with your doctor or medical provider if specific side effects do not go away. <\/p>\n\n\n\n \n- Headache<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Nervousness, restlessness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Drowsiness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Impotence<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Difficulty having an orgasm<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Dry mouth<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Excessive yawning<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Ringing in the ears<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Dizziness, nausea<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Nasal dryness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Insomnia<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Constipation<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Weight loss or weight gain<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Decreased sex drive<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Paxil Warnings for Use<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\nIt\u2019s vitally important to take Paxil as prescribed. Stopping the medication or missing too many doses can lead to the development of withdrawal symptoms, including:<\/p>\n\n\n\n \n- Irritability<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Nausea<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Feeling dizzy<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Vomiting<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Nightmares<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Headache<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Paresthesias<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
There is a risk of developing severe side effects when using Paxil and other SSRI antidepressants. Though rare, it\u2019s essential to understand the risks of taking any medication. If you experience severe side effects, contact your psychiatric care provider.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Paxil Black Box Warning <\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\nUsing any antidepressant, whether an SSRI or SNRI, comes with the risk of developing suicidal thoughts or thoughts of self-harm. In short-term studies, a small number of patients had suicidal thoughts worsen or developed suicidal thoughts for the first time. You must monitor yourself for increased suicidal thoughts or thoughts of self-harm when taking an SSRI.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If you have thoughts of suicide or of harming yourself, call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\nSerotonin Syndrome<\/strong><\/h4>\n\n\n\nThere is also a risk of developing a rare condition called serotonin syndrome, which happens when there is too much serotonin in the brain. Certain medications that increase serotonin can lead to this condition, which usually develops within a few hours of ingesting the medication. In rare cases, serotonin syndrome can be fatal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Be on the lookout for the following symptoms directly after taking any medication that increases serotonin levels:<\/p>\n\n\n\n | | | | | | | | |