Can paxil and Clonazepam be taken together? (3+ Findings)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will discuss the compatibility of Paxil and Clonazepam when taken together, examining research and a case study on the combination of both medicines. We will also explore the risks and benefits associated with using both medicines together.
Can Paxil and Clonazepam be taken together?
Yes, Paxil and Clonazepam can be taken together. Your healthcare provider can prescribe a combination of Paxil and Clonazepam after carefully examining your condition, and weighing the potential risks and benefits. It is important to note that everyone will not benefit from this combinational therapy.
Paxil is the brand name of the medicine Paroxetine, an antidepressant medication that is used to treat various mental health conditions. It is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It works by increasing the level of serotonin in the brain.
Clonazepam is a medication that belongs to the benzodiazepine class. It is primarily used to treat certain conditions related to the central nervous system. It works by enhancing the activity of a neurotransmitter called Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) (1).
The combination of Paxil and Clonazepam appears to be effective since there have not been many cases reported of side effects. However, you must be very careful about the dosage as this combination may lead to serotonin syndrome.
What does research suggest?
In a recent research study, the effects of combining Paxil and clonazepam were explored. A randomized controlled trial was conducted, focusing on a 34-year-old lady diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). During the trial, it was discovered that she was struggling with persistent anxiety symptoms.
This problem led her to seek help from a psychiatrist. A combination of Paxil and Clonazepam was considered as a potential solution. Paxil effectively alleviated her anxiety symptoms by commencing at a low dose, while Clonazepam helped her during times of intense anxiety.
The psychiatrist closely monitored the lady’s progress, meeting every week to assess the effectiveness of the medications. After her routine checkups, it was concluded that she felt a lot better.
As time went on (4-8 weeks), things got even better. Her life improved and the doctor decided to maintain Paxil at the same dose while gradually discontinuing Clonazepam to prevent complications. This study concludes the combination of Paxil and Clonazepam is more effective in patients with GAD (Generalized Anxiety Disorder) (2).
What are the benefits of using Paxil and Clonazepam together?
The combination of Paxil and clonazepam can offer several benefits in the management of Generalized Anxiety disorder (GAD) (3):
Comprehensive Symptoms Relief
Paxil, an SSRI, and Clonazepam target different aspects of anxiety. Paxil works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain providing long-term relief from anxiety, while Clonazepam quickly alleviates acute anxiety episodes.
Gradual Onset and Maintenance
Paxil is introduced slowly to let your body adjust to the medication and Clonazepam quickly helps when you need relief. Taking them together makes it easier to manage acute anxiety.
Individualized Treatment
GAD varies from person to person and the combination of Paxil and Clonazepam allows for an individualized treatment approach. This tailored strategy addresses the diverse needs of individuals, considering both the chronic nature of GAD and the need for immediate relief during anxiety episodes.
What are the risks of taking Paxil with Clonazepam?
The combination of Paxil and Clonazepam also entails some risks, while it is important to note that the risk can vary from person to person. Both medications impact the central nervous system and may contribute to depressing effects. Combing them may lead to addictive effects like sedation, drowsiness, and impaired cognitive function (4).
Overdosing of Paxil increases serotonin levels and combining it with Clonazepam may elevate the risk of serotonin syndrome. This condition can be serious and is characterized by symptoms like confusion, hallucinations, and seizures (5).
Paxil and Clonazepam may interact with other medications a person is taking, and can potentially lead to adverse effects, or reduce the efficacy of one or more drugs. Therefore, it is important to inform your doctor of your medical complete history and the medications you are taking.
What precautions should you take while using Paxil with Clonazepam?
Taking Paxil and Clonazepam together requires careful consideration and adherence to precautions to ensure the safe and effective use of both medications. Here are some important precautions to consider:
- Consultation with a healthcare provider.
- Regular Monitoring.
- Open communication.
- Avoid alcohol and Recreational drugs.
- Seek serotonin Syndrome awareness and,
- Tapering Clonazepam gradually.
According to my understanding and research, Paxil and Clonazepam can help in treating the GAD. However, it is important to be careful about potential side effects.In my opinion, patients having anxiety disorders should maintain their healthy lifestyle choices and talk openly with their doctor. By doing so, they can effectively manage their symptoms.
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References
1.-
Ngo DH, Vo TS. An updated review on pharmaceutical properties of gamma-aminobutyric acid. Molecules. 2019 Jul 24;24(15):2678.Available from:https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/24/15/2678
2.-
Stein MB, Sareen J. Generalized anxiety disorder. New England Journal of Medicine. 2015 Nov 19;373(21):2059-68. Available from https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/nejmcp1502514
3.-
Reinhold JA, Rickels K. Pharmacological treatment for generalized anxiety disorder in adults: an update. Expert opinion on pharmacotherapy. 2015 Jul 24;16(11):1669-81.Available from:https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1517/14656566.2015.1059424
4.-
Nardi AE, Freire RC, Mochcovitch MD, Amrein R, Levitan MN, King AL, Valença AM, Veras AB, Paes F, Sardinha A, Nascimento I. A randomized, naturalistic, parallel-group study for the long-term treatment of panic disorder with clonazepam or paroxetine. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology. 2012 Feb 1;32(1):120-6.Available from:https://journals.lww.com/psychopharmacology/fulltext/2012/02000/A_Randomized,_Naturalistic,_Parallel_Group_Study.20.aspx
5.-
Dokkedal-Silva V, Berro LF, Galduróz JC, Tufik S, Andersen ML. Clonazepam: indications, side effects, and potential for nonmedical use. Harvard review of psychiatry. 2019 Sep 1;27(5):279-89 Available from: https://journals.lww.com/hrpjournal/abstract/2019/09000/clonazepam__indications,_side_effects,_and.2.aspx
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