Hi, I was on paxil for 7 years. At one point, I was on 60mgs of it! As with all SSRI's, they take a couple of weeks to kick in (minimum of 3, but usually 5-6 before you get you get settled on what is a clinical dosage for you). It definitely helped but make sure that you don't stop taking it without doctor's approval- this is definitely a medication that you need to be weaned from (tapered off). I had a really hard time getting off of it but then again I was on a high dose of it. I believe that they have made some changes with the medication- there is a paxil-cr (controlled release) now.I was off off antidepressants for years and just went back on one- lexapro. Apparently this one has an antianxiety component to it as well. If the paxil doesn't work for you ask your doctor about lexapro. I'm only on 5mgs right now with little or no side effects however, it's too soon to tell if it's doing anything for me right now. Good luck and enjoy every minute with your son- give him a big hug and kiss for all of us- we are so proud of him!

lynr-thanks for the info. i am on 5mgs. of the paxil. my rhuem. didn't tell me how long it would take to kick in! he said i could take 10mgs. if 5 didn't work so now i know to wait at least 6 weeks like you said. i def. don't want to take more than i need. i will def. give my son a kiss and hug for you- i can't wait!

hi again, 20 mgs. of paxil is the usual dosage so I wouldn't worry about upping it to 10mgs, they are probably starting you off slow to make sure you don't have any reactions to it. read the pharmacy printout that comes with it (or look it up on line), severe allergic reactions include hives, itching, difficulty breathing- since you aren't experiencing that right now it would be ok to bump it up to 10mgs- that's still a relatively low dose. i was on 60mgs but that is a very high dose. you and your doctor will find out what is best for you but it does take time- be patient. have a wonderful holiday season, what a gift to have your son with you! xoxoxoLyn

lyn- thanks for more info! you have a great thanksgiving!

I am on Paxil right now as well. My doc put me on it because I was just feeling so down and grouchy since the diagnosis. I'm on 20mg and I am so happy I decided to take it!!! It has made my home a happier one. I feel so much better..my kids and husband feel better because I'm not so down all the time. It was a God send for me. I haven't had any side effects. It really only took me 2 weeks or so to feel 100% better. I hope it helps you.
Congrats on your son's arrival home!!! Please tell him THANK YOU from me. We are all so grateful.

The major side effect I had was a 60 pound weight gain...but that was on the CR version...some women have been known to gain weight on it without changing their eating habits (i.e. me) but when I stopped, 40 came off almost immediately but I have retained some of the rest. Just be aware and if you have this side effect, be sure and tell your doctor immediately and get on another antidepressant. I switched to Wellbutrin and have had no problems with it whatsoever.

But when you need them, antidepressants can be a life saver! Good luck!

Diane