Paxil etc...

    
      Re: Paxil etc...
    


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Posted by ccf neuro M.D. on May 11, 1997 at 17:15:02:

In Reply to: Paxil etc... posted by E.D.P. on May 06, 1997 at 11:19:39:

: Dear Sirs:
     I note that there is usually almost a one week delay in the time that you answer people's questions, so perhaps I'm a little impatient, but please respond to my earlier question.
     As mentioned, I have had a diagnosed seizure disorder for over two years (though I remember aura's from over 10 years ago) and MS since 1992. I'm sure that all of these factors are contributing to the situation.
  Thank you for your kindness, and again, please forgive my urgency attributing it to my level of extreme discomfort.
  -
  E.D.P.
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E.D.P., Sorry, your question was accidentally missed. Paxil and other seretonin reuptake inhibitor drugs (Prozac, Zoloft etc.) are known to cause jitteriness, nervousness etc. much like caffeine can. This is why most patients are advised to take such drugs first thing in the morning. Insomnia and an extereme form of restlessness called akathesia can also be side effects of the drug. Any benefits of using such drugs typically take 4 weeks or so, and, unlike the side effects which result from the drug molecule itself, these beneficial effects are the result of gradual alteration of the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain. If you are intolerant of the Paxil, I would discuss alternative treatments with your treating physician. Buspar, while effective in chronic anxiety disorders, is somewhat less effective for panic attacks, but is worth a try, especially if there are drug dependency concerns. Tricyclic antidepressants are also used for the treatment of panic disorder, but, like Paxil, take a long time to start working--- 6-8 weeks minimum in their case, and have many side effects. Again, we apoligize for missing your question earlier.