Paxil withdrawl(withdrawal)

Hi
i was taking Paxil CR 50 mg from last few years, i had panic attack. and  now i am trying to withdrawl (withdrawal) and as per doctor i took 50mg evey 2nd day and after a month 37.5mg every 2nd day. i haven't felt any thing for first two moth no side effects but now i am feeling sad, and and concentration problem, light headace.

my next step would be 25mg  every 2nd day. and then 12mg every 2nd day and then 7.5mg . paxil CR just comes in 25,12.5 and 7.5 mg. please advise if this is the right way and how to overcome side effects and what other medication need to take.

how long these withdrawl (withdrawal) side effects persist?

please help me out
thanks

[free3667]

The drug you are taking is considered a SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor).  Other drugs that fall in that class are Zoloft, Effexor, and Prozac.  These can be equally beneficial.  Each pose similiar side effects especially if abruptly stopped.  All take up to 6 weeks to see the full benefits of depression relief.  One of the newer depression medications is Cymbalta.  This class is known as the SSNRI's (Selective Serotonin norepipnehrine Inhibitors). The difference is that is works on 2 neurotransmitters in the brain.  These neurotransmitters have been linked to a cause of depression. It is also used to treat anxiety, and neuropathic pain such a people with fibromyalgia or Diabetic neuropathy.  It too takes 4-6 weeks to see full benefits. The side effects you are feeling could last months or indefinite.  You would need to consider a different medication. I have personally experienced panic attacks with Effexor. I too take Cymbalta 30mg.  As a nurse, I can tell you many antidepressants are trial and error. Some work better than others. I personally have tried all the SSRI and wound up with SSNRI to combat my panic attacks and major depression. I sure hope this helps and you feel better soon.  Take one day at a time.  If its any consolation, when I have skipped the meds (not on purpose, did not refill before pharmacy closed on a weekend) I feel weepy at everything.

[free3667]

To add, tapering should always be done under the physician's supervision. Stopping too fast could cause seizures. But it sounds like you understand to take it slow. Kudos for that.