What Causes Irritability And Paranoid Behavior While On Paxil?

Posted on Wed, 9 Nov 2016

Question: Hi - I have been on Paxil for 17 years. It has helped me with social disorder and panic attacks. The few times I have been without it - I become irritable and paranoid. I began it years ago at a lower dosage and ultimately, thru the years increased to 40mg. Have been on 40 mg for about 8 years. I now feel that I should ask to be Given 50 to 60 mg daily. I am a 64 year old female - in otherwise good health - and active. What is your medical opinion? Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (37 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Other SSRI drugs should be preferred

Detailed Answer:
Hello thanks for asking from HCM

I can understand your concern. Paxil or Paroxetine is a good SSRI drug for anxiety and panic disorder. The drug is relatively safe drug but in higher doses it causes sedation, blurred vision, constipation, dry mouth etc side effects. You are already taking 40 mg which is not a low dose. You are 64 and in my opinion increasing the dose to 50-60 mg per day is not a good idea.

Other SSRI drug like Sertraline should be a preferred choice. The drug is safest SSRI drug and has equal efficacy in controlling anxiety and panic like symptoms. So if possible discuss with your doctor regarding this drug. The drug will provide better symptoms control.

Thanks, Take care

Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T