Anxiety meds

Hi UKM,

Welcome to the forum! :)

Drug companies are required to list all possible side effects, even if only one person out of millions reported it. They don't want to get sued so they cover their butts. I can pretty much assure you that 20mg is not a big enough dose to cause any harm to you. You probably will experience some side effects — but those will go away once you get used to the medication (within the first week or two).

If you're still concerned, check out this page (scroll down) to see a table of side effects and how often they occur for people with anxiety disorders.
www.rxlist.com/paxil-side-effects-drug-center.htm
It seems as though the most common symptoms for anxiety disorder sufferers are nausea, dry mouth, and GI problems. (Also take note that the "placebo" group reported many of the same issues!)

Take care,

-Cat

Hi UK mummy and welcome!

I am sorry to hear of your anxiety challenges....but it is good that you are reaching out and getting the help that you need. :)

I completely understand your concerns, and in fact, this is an ironic but common worry...

...fear of the meds prescribed to help.

It is true that there is a chance of experiencing side effects...but there is the same chance that you won't.

Even if you do, these s/e's are temporary, and if you can hang in there for a bit...you can end up with a med that really performs well for you!

There are coping skills in our Resources at the top of the main forum page that can help you to stay as calm as possible during your start up...should you choose to try your Rx.

We will be here to support you in any decision you make...should keep us posted, okay?

Scaredy Cat

Hi

Welcome to the forum.

Sorry to hear you have been dealing with anxiety but glad you have found us as you will find good support here.

Unfortunately all medications come with side effects and it really is a personal choice to take them but it's important to remember they are not a cure all and the most effective way of gaining recovery is through therapy.

Hibee

Ukmummy, it is possible that starting an SSRI can paradoxically worsen anxiety in the very beginning as your body and brain adjust to the medication. However, their benefits far outweigh the possible side effects. If you are truly concerned, you can speak to your doctor about prescribing a benzodiazepine (Valium for instance) to take as needed with your Paxil.

What lovely people you are. Thanks so much. I will keep you updated. At the moment I am quite proud of myself and am feeling quite good. I even went food shopping today. Woo hoo for me lol

Hi Ukmummy and Welcome!

That's precisely why I'm not very fond of medications. I think they're necessary at a certain point but I try my best to avoid taking it as much as i can. Some side-effects can really be harmful and can great affect functionality so I only consider them as a last resort for treatment. I'd rather to counseling therapy than drink medication.

Luckily there are numerous other alternatives in dealing with anxiety. My advise to you is try considering some of these options: Herbal extracts such as lavender tea, chamomile tea, and many other have calming effect once taken. You can also opt for nutritional supplements. Fish oil, 5-HTP, and Endoca hemp products are proven to be effective in reducing anxiety.

You should also try some self-help methods such as meditation, relaxation techniques like breathing exercises, mindfulness or positive thinking, aromatherapy with massage therapy, and music therapy.

These are just some of the many other approaches, ideally it would be better if you can harmonize these approaches with therapy and medications but it can also be effective on its own. Also, please be reminded to ask for your clinician's permission before trying any of the tips. I hope I was able to help. :)