Both cause weight gain and both cause loss of libido. Paxil is an
SSRI and
Effexor is an SNRI, which means that Paxil affect one set of receptors and
Effexor affects two different sets of receptors. Paxil and
Effexor are considered to be the two worst when it comes to side effects and withdrawal, or what the companies now call "discontinuance syndrome," which has been reported to affect 68% of patients.
No, you cannot stop Paxil and just switch to
Effexor. Neither of these medications CURE
depression or
anxiety. You have to be finding other ways to deal with your symptoms while on these medications so you can eventually come off. They both can have long-term effects on your liver and other parts of the body. Glaxo just put out a press release warning about birth defects in children when the mother was taking Paxil during pregnancy. Withdrawal of both medications can be debilitating.
Every person reacts differently to every medication, so you may not have any of the problems. But please do your research into both medications and discuss possiblities with your physician. There are a wide range of medications out there and you must start trying to resolve your
depression/
anxiety in other ways. Trust me. No matter how well they work for you, you do NOT want to be on them the rest of your life. Wellbutrin and
Lexapro are other options.
Lexapro is another
SSRI, but so far has not shown the severity of side effects as Paxil. Wellbutrin is not in this category of medications, but some have had success with it. No matter what medication your physician tries, there will be horror stories somewhere. You and your physician just have to find the one that is best for you and is the least dangerous.
I apologize for the long response, but this is the area that I specialize in. Please do your research and discuss any and all questions with your physician.
Good luck!
