Paxil is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (
SSRI), a
pharmaceutical drug. It works by blocking the brain from reabsorbing the chemical
Serotonin, allowing more of it to remain in the area between the
synapse and
dendrite. Serotonin is believed to directly affect one's mood and behaviors. People with
major depression,
social anxiety disorder,
obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other
anxiety disorders are believed to have an imbalance of this chemical.
Some people have adverse effects from Paxil, including the very symptoms it is supposed to alleviate, but it is a life-saving drug for many. It can allow one to break out of the life-choking cloud of anxiety and depression and return to normal mood and feeling again.
Side effects include possible depressed mood, weight gain, dry mouth, and sexual dysfunction.
The 10mg pills are yellow, the 20mg pills are pink, the 30 mg pills are blue, and the 40mg pills are green.