Paxil® Risks

Since Paxil® was introduced to the market in 1992, a range of dangerous side effects and risks have been associated with the medication's use. While some Paxil® side effects are relatively minor, numerous studies have found evidence of an increased risk of heart defects in babies exposed to the drug during the first three months in the womb, as well as a raised risk of suicide attempts among children and young adults who have taken the antidepressant. Additionally, studies have shown that patients who stop taking Paxil® experienced serious symptoms stemming from withdrawals. Read the sections below to learn more about Paxil® dangers and side effects.

Pregnancy and Heart Defects

Recent findings from two separate studies have found that babies born to mothers who used Paxil® during the first trimester of pregnancy are one and a half to two times more likely to suffer from congenital heart defects. These studies prompted the FDA to request that GlaxoSmithKline, the makers of Paxil®, revise the medication's warning label. The FDA also asked GlaxoSmithKline to change the drug's pregnancy category from C to D, indicating that studies have shown Paxil® can pose a risk to the fetus.

Paxil® Withdrawals

Patients who have taken Paxil® have experienced serious withdrawal symptoms within one to three days after reducing dosage or stopping use of the drug altogether. Patients suffering from withdrawals may have trouble coping with their regular daily activities and may choose to start using the antidepressant again simply because the withdrawal symptoms are so severe. Some Paxil® withdrawal symptoms include:

This list of symptoms does not include all withdrawal symptoms experienced by patients.

Suicidal Behavior in Children and Young Adults

Since GlaxoSmithKline revised its label to include warnings about the risk of Paxil® withdrawals and heart defects in babies exposed to the drug during the first few months of pregnancy, results of a clinical analysis have shown that Paxil® may increase the risk of suicidal behavior in children and young adults. In May of 2006, GlaxoSmithKline sent letters to physicians and updated the warning label to include an advisory regarding Paxil® and suicidal tendencies.

Contact a Paxil® Attorney for Legal Assistance

If you or a loved one has suffered from Paxil® side effects and dangers such as severe withdrawals, heart defects, or suicidal behavior, it is in your best interest to contact an attorney as soon as possible. A lawyer with experience in Paxil® litigation can review your claim and determine if you are eligible for compensation. Contact a Paxil® attorney for a case evaluation.