Hi Tufftimes,
Paxil (like Zoloft, Seroxat, Luvox and Celexa) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), meaning it operates by preventing the presynaptic neuron from reabsorbing specifically serotonin after releasing them. The result is that the neurotransmitter serotonin stays active in the brain longer. Since the biological explanation of depression is that the level of serotonin in the brain is not high enough, the medication can help. Paxil is fairly mild and one can stay on it the rest of their lives if they have to. Paxil flattens the emotions a little bit. Not like your girlfriend will turn into a zombie, but she will be less affected by things that happen in everyday life. Remember that they take effect only after a few weeks, so do not expect to see results right away. Paxil is often the first choice of family doctors, because the side effects are mild (a little nausea or headache). There are other medication out there that work in a different way. That is way so many people are looking for the one that might work for them, which can be a long and discouraging process. I hope this one works for you girlfriend and that she will feel more stable soon.
