Does Paxil help with acne? (7 tips)
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 explore whether Paxil helps with acne. We will also discuss research findings, the connection between mental health and skin conditions, factors contributing to acne, and pharmacological and non-pharmacological ways of treating acne while taking Paxil.
Does Paxil help with acne?
Paxil does not directly help with acne. Stress, anxiety, and depression are psychological illnesses that may exacerbate acne in susceptible individuals. Paxil is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) approved by the FDA to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), panic disorder, and other related mental conditions.
When prescribed to treat anxiety and depression, Paxil may indirectly help reduce the symptoms of acne. Some people, when stressed, start picking and peeling the skin of their face, neck, and arms, areas easily reachable, which may also trigger acne.
When stress levels decrease, the condition of patients who experience acne may improve. Paxil, also known as Paroxetine, works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin in brain cells. Serotonin, a chemical neurotransmitter, regulates sleep, mood, appetite, and the body’s stress response (1).
What does research suggest?
According to research studies, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Paxil, might have additional antimicrobial properties by influencing the bacterial walls and certain internal processes of bacteria.
SSRIs may improve conditions such as atopic dermatitis which may have psychological effects on patients. Such patients may demonstrate mood swings along with anxiety and depression due to societal pressure. However, more research is needed to fully understand the antimicrobial properties of SSRIs (2).
What is the connection between mental health and skin problems?
The connection between mental health and skin problems has been studied in many research studies. It is often observed that patients with psychological disorders such as anxiety and depression also have skin disorders such as rashes, acne, or dermatitis.
Due to reluctance to see a psychiatrist, most dermatologists prescribe antipsychotics to patients who experience skin problems along with mental disorders. Psychological disorders may trigger or worsen the existing skin conditions.
The use of antidepressants such as Paxil and other SSRIs may be helpful for patients to treat skin conditions which are related to psychological disorders (3,4).
What factors may contribute to acne while taking Paxil?
There are a few factors that may contribute to cause acne while taking Paxil such as:
- Genetic factors make you more prone to experiencing acne.
- Increased stress levels may lead to hormonal changes and skin problems.
- Use of other drugs with skin-related side effects.
- Inadequate skincare routines or excessive facial massages may increase sebum production.
- The habit of peeling skin or picking the pimples.
- Consumption of oily foods, dairy products, or foods high in sugar.
- Hormonal changes.
- Increased exposure to the sun (5).
What are the pharmacological ways of treating acne?
The pharmacological ways of treating acne may include using Benzoyl peroxide, topical Retinoids, Azelaic acid, or their combinations for mild acne. If you experience severe acne, please reach out to your healthcare provider.
They may prescribe you antibiotics such as Minocycline or Doxycycline, or hormonal therapies such as oral contraceptives, Spironolactone or Isotretinoin depending on the severity of your skin condition.
Antibiotics may start working within a few hours or a few days and should be taken for 7-14 days because this period is enough to treat bacterial infections. If you observe any side effects while using these medications along with Paxil, please immediately reach out to your healthcare provider (6).
What are the non-pharmacological ways of treating acne?
The non-pharmacological approaches to treat acne while taking Paxil may include:
- Drink plenty of water throughout the day to flush out the toxins from your body that may contribute to acne.
- Protect your skin by using sunscreens while going out in the sun.
- Avoid oily and sugary foods.
- Change your towels, pillowcases and beddings regularly to prevent acne.
- Avoid using oil-based cosmetics.
- Reduce your stress levels by engaging in physical activities such as walking, yoga, or aerobics.
- Avoid touching your face unnecessarily (5).
Conclusion
In my opinion, Paxil does not directly help treat acne. However, its impact on mental health may indirectly influence skin conditions. Stress and anxiety may trigger acne in susceptible individuals.
SSRIs such as Paxil may reduce the symptoms of mental illness and associated dermatological issues. However, you may use pharmacological and non-pharmacological ways to treat or manage your acne. If your acne worsens or persists, please reach out to your healthcare provider.
Was this helpful?
References
1.-
Shrestha P, Fariba KA, Abdijadid S. Paroxetine. 2023 Jul 17. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 30252278. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30252278/
2.-
Kiecka A, Szczepanik M. The potential action of SSRIs in the treatment of skin diseases including atopic dermatitis and slow-healing wounds. Pharmacol Rep. 2022 Oct;74(5):947-955. doi: 10.1007/s43440-022-00423-7. Epub 2022 Oct 7. PMID: 36203121; PMCID: PMC9584846. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9584846/
3.-
Weber MB, Recuero JK, Almeida CS. Use of psychiatric drugs in Dermatology. An Bras Dermatol. 2020 Mar-Apr;95(2):133-143. doi: 10.1016/j.abd.2019.12.002. Epub 2020 Feb 18. PMID: 32171543; PMCID: PMC7175395. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7175395/
4.-
Escalas J, Guerra A, Rodríguez-Cerdeira MC. Tratamiento con psicofármacos de los trastornos psicodermatológicos [Psychotropic treatment of psychodermatologic disorders]. Actas Dermosifiliogr. 2010 Jul;101(6):485-94. Spanish. doi: 10.1016/s1578-2190(10)70833-7. PMID: 20738967. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20738967/
5.-
Sutaria AH, Masood S, Saleh HM, Schlessinger J. Acne Vulgaris. 2023 Aug 17. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 29083670. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29083670/
6.-
Eichenfield DZ, Sprague J, Eichenfield LF. Management of Acne Vulgaris: A Review. JAMA. 2021 Nov 23;326(20):2055-2067. doi: 10.1001/jama.2021.17633. PMID: 34812859. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34812859/
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