Brain zaps, but not from withdrawal - Panic Disorders Message Board

mackenzie61 · 09-11-2006, 01:53 PM

Hi,

I've taking 20 mg. of paxil for about nine months for panic attacks. This is my second time on it, and I went through the whole brain zaps withdrawal thing when I went off it the first time.

Here's the weird thing -- when I'm on paxil, I have some brain zaps that usually happen the week before my period starts. And this weekend I had them a lot, just about every time I moved my head. I've also noticed that I seem to have them more when I'm exercising during hot weather.

Just wondered if any one else has experienced this and might know what it means or have advice on handling it. Why am I having these brain zaps when I'm not reducing my dosage at all? Could hormone changes make me metabolize the paxil faster before my period?

Thanks much for shedding any light on this!

Mackenzie

alanizem · 09-12-2006, 12:49 PM

Mackenzie...
Oh, I can relate. I had to be hospitalized just to get off of Paxil. Not to mention the numb limbs and constant panic attacks. But, the brain zaps occurred for me to, both while on and coming off of the medication. I always saw it as an unpleasant side effect, then as a sign that it was too much for me. I also couldn't "feel" anything; I couldn't cry, have a good, geniune laugh, etc. Like being numb.

I'm sure exercising and your menstrual cycle alter your chemicals somewhat (dopamine, seratonin, adrenalin, etc); maybe these things just make the Paxil have to work harder, as it is an SSRI, I meaning inhibitor. So while your body naturally has its own way of dealing with these chemicals, the Paxil is trying to do the opposite - control them. However, I would definitely consult your doctor or a pharmacist (I do this because at the time, I didn't trust my psychiatrist). Also remember that Paxil is currently in class-action lawsuit for its withdrawl effects. After getting off, I was med free for six years and loving life until a few months ago, when diagnosed bipolar. I've had panic attacks ever since on lithium and have had to learn to "talk myself" out of them, since they won't prescribe me any anti-anxiety pills. I think if these "zaps" don't go away and affect your quality of life and ability to function, you may want to talk to your doctor about lowering to 10mg or trying something else... whatever the decision, stand up for yourself! You shouldn't have to deal with this "every time you move your head" just to avoid panic attacks... I wish you all the best, and will kep you in my prayers...

mackenzie61 · 09-12-2006, 03:16 PM

Thanks so much for your support

It's great that you're able to talk youself out of your panic attacks.

I think you're right -- our brain chemistry is pretty complicated, and throwing paxil (or another antidepressant) into the mix can do some pretty strange things. The first time on it, I also had a terrible time with muted feelings, not to mention a total lack of motivation. This round has been better, except for these annoying brain zaps. I've also been sick this week with some sort of intestinal flu or food poisoning, which might explain why they're so bad.

Thanks again,

Mackenzie

tracey30 · 09-16-2006, 04:22 PM

Wow i couldnt believe it when i came across your post, i thought i was the only one getting these brain zaps! No doctor knows what im on about. I call them head shocks but i only get them when im coming off my meds. Im not saying im glad YOU get them, but its so reasuring to know someone else gets them too. Do you know what i mean?

nuttygirl · 10-04-2006, 07:23 AM

Maybe it's a common thing with paxil because I got them too while taking it and worse when I quit taking it. My doctor didn't understand when I tried to describe the weird feeling in my head. I never called it zapping but that is a perfect word to describe it! This is among several reasons I don't want to try paxil again - that and the sexual side effects were horrible.