Paxil is a popular prescription drug which is a member of a group of antidepressants called Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), the drugs in this particular group are typically used in the treatment of depression, anxiety disorders, and some personality disorders. However, for expecting moms there are information that needs to be known concerning
Paxil and Pregnancy.
Like many other prescription drugs Paxil is known to cause both mild and severe side effects in patients, some of the mild side effects include: nausea, insomnia, drowsiness, headache, stomach discomfort and diarrhea, weight gain/loss, changes in behavior, aggressive behavior, rash, itching, sweating, muscle weakness, sexual dysfunction, joint pain, fever, chills, flu-like symptom, and suicidal behavior. Although these side effects are deemed mild by most doctors, it is important that you see one if you are experiencing any of these side effects.
Paxil also has the potential for causing certain birth defects in unborn children whose mothers have taken Paxil during pregnancy. Reports indicated that most birth defects occur during the first trimester of pregnancy and are known to include several types of cardiac abnormalities in the unborn child. There has already been a statement made by the FDA about Paxil. In its statement the FDA says: We are advising health care professionals to discuss the potential risk of birth defects with patients taking Paxil who plan to become pregnant or are in their first three months of pregnancy.
Health care professionals should consider discontinuing Paxil (and switching to another antidepressant if indicated) in these patients.In some patients, the benefits of continuing Paxil may be greater than the potential risk to the fetus. FDA is advising health care professionals not to prescribe Paxil in women who are in the first three months of pregnancy or are planning pregnancy, unless other treatment options are not appropriate.
Paxil is a drug whose benefits and potential side effects must be weighed and thought of carefully before starting treatment. The FDA has already released a statement with regards to the potential risks of Paxil and Pregnancy since there are the birth defects the drug can cause, for more information about Paxil and if it is right for you please consult with your doctor.
