and i already think my depression isnt as bad as it was. Also im not sure if its the meds taking affect or if i just had a good day, but recently ive been really nervous around even good friends, when i saw them last night i felt really quite calm, i have been finding conversation with them really difficult because of my anxiety but it was much easier talking to them last night.
Thing is though the side effects are getting to me, the meds wipe me out. Ive been taking them before bed but even the whole of the next day im completely fatigued, ive been getting really bad hand trembles, though if i have something to eat it seems to sort that, twitchy legs, some sexual dysfunction, and a whole list of other things. Im also becoming worried about coming off the drug and withdrawals. Ive been reading some terrible things about coming off the drug, it seems some people who initially only took it for 6 month or so have had to spend up to two years weaning themselves off it, and some people seem to still suffer bad effects years after they last took a dose. The brain zaps also fill me with dread.
So while i think the drug is taking effect and the side effects im currently suffering from may wear off, im really scared of the withdrawal stage, suffering long term damage to my health and I am thinking of quitting after only a week. How common are problems from the withdrawal, if i quit now will i experience any problems?
Are there any other meds that are good for depression and social anxiety that dont cause as many probles when coming off them?

This post has been edited by NoNameGiven: Aug 5 2008, 05:08 PM

Paxil can have some start up side effects. Unfortunately, its pretty common. :-(

Dont worry about withdrawal. Some people have no problems at all. Dont listen to all the scare stories...

Persoanlly, I've come off both PAxil and Effexor (the two people reckon are the worst to come off!!) with no problems at all !!!!

Hi,
I came off paroxetine last year after taking it 10 years almost and i was extremely dopey and drunk feeling with some sweating, it didnt really give me any other withdrawal effects.

I am glad you are getting some relief. The "one week" mark always seemed to be the "magical" time that the meds started to work for me too, and I would first notice it by more calmness in social settings as well. :)

I think only you can decide whether or not the riks and side effects of taking Paxil, or any drug, are worth it to you. How bad was your depression before starting Paxil? Did you try other methods of relieving depression before trying meds?

Yes, the side effects and withdrawal can be brutal. I won't lie to you about that. As a 16 year Paxil veteran, I can tell you all about that. But - depression and being suicidal are also brutal. Only you can make the choice what you can live with.

I don't have much experience with other ADs. I tried Effexor once and that was awful. They all have there share of side effects and risks though. If Paxil is helping you, and you have determined that you need a medication, I would stick with it.