Paxil & Weight Loss

Paxil is a medication used to treat depression in individuals, and is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI). Paxil works by restoring the balance of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain, which helps to improve certain mood problems, as stated by drugs.com. While taking Paxil can relieve depression in patients, it has also been found to aid in weight loss.

History

The patent for Paxil was purchased by GlaxoSmithKline in the 1980s, and is prescribed for treatment of depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety, as well as other conditions. Paxil, also known in generic form as Paroxetine, must be prescribed by a physician.

The facts

How does Paxil actually allow patients to lose weight? After years of trials and research, it has been discovered that Paxil may increase the rate of metabolism in some people without changing daily caloric intake. Paxil has also been linked to nausea, diarrhea and vomiting, which associated with loss of appetite and elimination can lead to weight loss.

Types

Paxil, molecularly made up of C19H20FNO3, is available in several different forms and strengths, as indicated by medical-look.com. The original formula comes in 10mg/5ml suspension, 10mg tablets, 30mg tablets, 40mg tablet, and 20mg tablets. Paxil formula CR is administered in 12.5mg tablets, 25mg tablets, and 37.5mg tablets. Generic forms of Paxil are regularly dispensed by pharmacies, and while the same strength will be given, the color and shape of the actual pill may differ from the brand form.

Expectations

If you have one of the body compositions that allow for weight loss on this drug, results have been reported by GlaxoSmithKline to be one pound vs. smaller amounts with patients taking a placebo. This will depend on the side effects you encounter, and if you are able to stay consistent with your usual diet. Unfortunately, not all patients will lose weight while taking this medication, but you may be satisfied knowing that you are avoiding noted side effects.

Risks

Paxil, according to GlaxoSmithKline, is classified as a category D drug. By far, this is possibly the most serious classification, since it means that in studies of pregnant women this medication has demonstrated a risk to the human fetus. Some women that have taken this drug during pregnancy reveal issues, such as heart problems in their young children, which has been linked to Paxil. In some patients, Paxil has increased depression and suicide rate. Be sure to talk to your physician before taking Paxil for weight loss.