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Suggest Ways To Wean Off Paxel
Question: Have been on Paxel 40mg for 10 years & it has quit working for me, the doctor added Buspirone 10mg, it has helped some but now he wants me to try Prozac 40mg. He didn't say anything about tapering off the Paxel, just quit it & start the Prozac, is this possible without withdrawal symptons? Do I keep taking the Buspirone also or stop it? This medicine switch has me all confused & scared.
Brief Answer:
Private Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thank you so much for reaching out to me directly.
Firstly, yes, you should continue taking the buspirone. It many take several weeks for you to feel the full effect of this medication.
Second, Prozac is unique in that you do not need to taper off Paxil before starting it. The reason for this is that of all the antidepressants, Prozac has the longest half-life, meaning it lasts in the system for many hours at a therapeutic level. This long-lasting nature means you will not have withdrawal from other antidepressants, including Paxil. Does this make sense?
Dr. Sheppe
Private Consultation
Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thank you so much for reaching out to me directly.
Firstly, yes, you should continue taking the buspirone. It many take several weeks for you to feel the full effect of this medication.
Second, Prozac is unique in that you do not need to taper off Paxil before starting it. The reason for this is that of all the antidepressants, Prozac has the longest half-life, meaning it lasts in the system for many hours at a therapeutic level. This long-lasting nature means you will not have withdrawal from other antidepressants, including Paxil. Does this make sense?
Dr. Sheppe
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Arnab Banerjee
Brief Answer:
Private Followup
Detailed Answer:
I'm glad things are going well for you. It's my pleasure! Please reach out in the future with any question at all, I'll be happy to help.
Please remember to rate and close this answer thread.
Dr. Sheppe
Private Followup
Detailed Answer:
I'm glad things are going well for you. It's my pleasure! Please reach out in the future with any question at all, I'll be happy to help.
Please remember to rate and close this answer thread.
Dr. Sheppe
Note: For further follow up on related General & Family Physician Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Prasad
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