Question:
PAXIL .I TOOK IT FOR 3 YRS

I LIKE VERY MUCH TO GET OFF THE PAXIL . I READ IN ARE NEWS PAPPER WHAT IT DOES TO PEOPLE AT HAVES TRY TO GET OFF THE..PAXIL THIS GET ME VERY UP SET.. I DO NOT LIKE THIS ..THANKING SOMING GOT CONTRO OVER ME I HAVE TRY TO GET OFFEN PAXIL AND COULD NOT I HAVE CRYING SPELL..AND I CAN SEE I HAVE GAIN WEIGHT VIRGINIA 8..31..01    — virginia B. (posted on August 31, 2001)

August 31, 2001
I have taken this medication for several years with no apparent ill effects. I was told when I started taking it that when it came time to stop, I would need to cut it back very slowly to avoid any unpleasant side effects. My MD recommended reducing the dose 10 mg per month. Using his formula, it would take me 8 months to stop taking it. It has helped me a great deal and I do not intend to even try to get off it until after surgery, if then. If taking this or any other medication is distressing you I think you should go to see your doctor and ask him/her to review your symptoms and see if it is time for you to come off it or to switch to something else. The whole idea of these medications is to help us feel better so we can function without the terrible feelings of depression and anxiety. If you are still feeling that way, maybe you need a change. I also would not use the newspaper as an authority on medical matters, go to the library and do some research, you may find information there that will put your mind at ease. I wish you well and will keep you in my prayers.
   — [Anonymous]

October 7, 2001
I had been on Paxil (40 mg/day) for so many years that I hardly remember not taking it. I am 9 days post-op and have not taken it (or any of my other meds) since before surgery. I had tried to cutback/get off Paxil before surgery for various reasons and was unable to do so for more that a few days. If you find that you need to remain on Paxil after surgery it is available as a liquid.
   — Paula S.

May 18, 2004
I took Paxil for about a year and I felt great as far as the depression went.... unfortunately, by the time I changed over to Prozac, I had already gained 30 lbs. My doctor at the time told me to decide if I wanted to be fat and happy, or thin and depressed. It wasn't much of a choice...
   — Arlene I.