Using Paxil for Insomnia Treatment

Paxil is generally used to treat people who experience anxiety. Within the scope of anxiety you can add generalized anxiety, panic attacks, post traumatic stress, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. People who suffer from these disorders will often experience insomnia to the point they will not be able to function during their daily lives. In this type of situation Paxil for insomnia might help the patient relax enough to get the sleep they need.

People who suffer from anxiety and depression typically have a reduced serotonin level in the brain. Serotonin is also a component which is used to treat insomnia. Studies have shown that increased levels of serotonin provide a calming effect on moods. Many medical professionals will prescribe Paxil for insomnia because it has been shown to raise the serotonin levels in the brain. When serotonin levels are at a normal rate you will usually see less depression and anxiety.

Paxil for insomnia offers fewer side effects than some of the other drugs which treat low serotonin levels. Most people who take Paxil will experience less dry mouth, less constipation, and fewer cardiovascular risks. As a rule it will not cause a rise in blood pressure and will balance out the chemicals which cause severe mood swings.

How Does Paxil Affect the Body?

Paxil is not considered to be a narcotic so taking Paxil for insomnia will usually not cause the lethargy which often accompanies narcotic sleeping medications. The effects of Paxil will leave the body within 24 hours but Paxil actually stays in the system much longer. It can be used in the elderly population as well as in younger adults. It is not recommended for women who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant soon.

The general dose for Paxil is 20mg per day but this dose may be adjusted, based on the needs of the patient. Many doctors will want to start out on the smallest dose which is 10mg per day. Patients who take Paxil for insomnia will usually see a small benefit on the first dose but the full benefit usually takes about two weeks for the drug to build up in the body.

Before starting Paxil for insomnia it is important for you to discuss all of your current medications with your doctor. People who are currently taking MAOI inhibitors should not take Paxil since this could result in death. Once you begin Paxil it is not recommended that you quit taking it cold turkey. Here again you should discuss this with your doctor because he will probably want to wean you off gradually.