Age, medication and the pregnancy

[Carolyn-Hoeflein]

  I am 40 yrs old, found I was pregnant only about a week ago.  For more than 4 yrs I have been on 20 mgs of Paxil for chronic depression.  Since I learned of the pregnancy, I discontinued the medication after learning of the pregnancy.  The side effects of the discontinuation of this medication have been both physically and emotionally disturbing.   The nausea, blurred vision, inability to concentrate have only
  made the normal morning sickness all the more unbearable.  
  My question is, after how many days may I expect to feel these withdrawal symptoms lessen?
  Thanks for your time.  My regular GP wont return my calls.
Dear Carolyn:
Paxil is a drug that has no evidence that it causes problems for the unborn, and equally, has not safety record. Hence, use depends on the needs of the patient.
The symptoms that you describe can be symptoms of early pregnancy (nausea) or they may be symptoms of depression (difficulty concentrating). It can take two to four weeks for medication effects to completely resolve.
Your newly diagnosed pregnancy and medication use need to be discussed with your treatment physician.
This ifnormation is provided for education purposes and is not a medical consultation. If you have specific questions, please contact your physician.
Keywrods: pregnancy, paxil.