Paroxitine Withdrawal

If you need to stop taking Paroxitine, it is advisable to reduce the dose gradually, so as to minimize problems with withdrawing. You should get as much information and support as you can, and involve your doctor wherever possible. Paroxitine as well as ther depression drugs may cause unpleasant withdrawal symptoms in some people, and you should not stop taking them suddenly, but do so gradually over a period of weeks.

Some say that withdrawal problems occur more commonly with paroxitine than with the other SSRIs. It is probable that these problems are associated with the fact that paroxitine has a short half-life, which means that it is metabolised and cleared from the body in a relatively short time. Withdrawal from drugs which have a long half-life is naturally slower and more gradual than with those with a short half-life, and so causes fewer problems.

The symptoms associated with withdrawal may include: dizziness, sensory disturbance such as pins and needles, anxiety, sleep disturbances including intense dreams, agitation, tremor, nausea, headache, sweating and confusion, numbness, tingling and sensations that resemble having electric shocks. In order to minimise the chance of withdrawal problems, it is suggested that paroxitine should be withdrawn very gradually by reducing the dose very slowly over a period of weeks, or months in cases where the symptoms are severe. In the case that the form of paroxitine you are taking is in liquid, then the better way to help with withdrawal is to dilute the liquid. But it is best to speak with your doctor or pharmacist about this option and get advise.