Originally Posted by
tom1984
So as I understand it is best to push trough somehow?
I think what has happened is the dose you were on wasn't high enough to sustain the brain changes paroxetine made leaving you unprotected when remission ended and you are now essentially starting from scratch. It will likely take more than 10mg and some time to regain control.
I feel so nervous and anxious, it sucks.
You shouldn't have to suffer while waiting for paroxetine to kick-in, Tom. White-knuckling through anxiety is counterproductive. Ask your doctor to prescribe either a small dose of one of the *benzodiazepines (BZDs), or better still of **hydroxyzine, a antihistamine with pretty good anti anxiety properties. It's not quite as potent as the BZDs, but often potent enough. Other alternatives are beta-blockers and mirtazapine. If s/he won't prescribe anything then you could try over-the-counter ***Benadryl (diphenhydramine).
* BZDs inhibit the mechanism by which ADs (and therapy) work so should only be taken when required, not routinely just in case.
** Hydroxyzine comes in two forms, hydroxyzine pamoate (Vistaril) and hydroxyzine hydrochloride (Atarax). Anecdotally, the pamoate form is claimed to be the more effective anxiolytic, but just how true this is remains a matter of debate in forums.
*** Benadryl's active ingredient differs from country to country. The one you want is diphenhydramine. If the Canadian Benadryl doesn't contain it there will probably be another antihistamine brand that does. Please discuss its suitability with your pharmacist if on medications other than paroxetine, or you have other health issues. Diphenhydramine can cause drowsiness, as may BZDs, beta-blockers, mirtazapine and hydroxyzine so caution is needed if performing potentially hazardous tasks, including driving.