Does Paxil stunt growth? (3 studies)
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 stunts growth. Furthermore, we will also discuss what studies suggest about Paxil’s effects on growth, the correlation between use duration and growth issues, susceptible individuals, and the management of growth effects with Paxil.
Does Paxil stunt growth?
Paxil may stunt growth, but it is not a common side effect. Paxil, also known as Paroxetine, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant approved by the FDA to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), social anxiety disorder (SAD), panic disorder, and other related mental health disorders.
Paxil works by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin in brain cells, a neurotransmitter that regulates sleep, mood, appetite, and the body’s stress response (1). Some psychotropic drugs, such as SSRIs, may cause suppressed growth in susceptible individuals.
Do not take any antidepressants on your own; always consult your healthcare provider. They may evaluate your current symptoms, underlying medical condition, and family history before prescribing Paxil.
What do studies say about Paxil’s potential effects on growth?
Limited research data exist regarding the effects of Paxil on growth. However, some research studies have shown that SSRIs may affect the growth of individuals, especially during puberty. When SSRIs are used in adolescence, they can impact the height of individuals.
SSRIs may affect the release of growth hormones and mainly affect boys during puberty. The study suggested that the effect on growth hormone may also lead to other problems, such as increased fat levels, psychological issues, and an increased risk of depression (2).
The effects of SSRIs on newborns’s growth were also studied during a clinical trial, suggesting that SSRIs do not cause growth effects when used during pregnancy and in the first year after birth. However, this study has its limitations (3).
Is there a correlation between Paxil use duration and growth issues?
Another research study found a correlation between Paxil use duration and growth issues. SSRIs can affect the growth and puberty of children. Those administered SSRIs for up to 5 years did not grow as expected during a stage where a growth spurt was expected.
This stunted growth was due to the effect of SSRIs on the release of growth hormones, and it returned to normal when the therapy was discontinued. Therefore, close monitoring is advisable when prescribing Paxil to children and teenagers (4).
Who is more susceptible to growth issues from Paxil?
Growth issues from the use of Paxil may be more prominent in children and teenagers in the puberty stage. Research studies suggest that the effects of Paxil may be more pronounced in boys as compared to girls (4).
Individuals taking higher doses of Paxil for extended periods may also be susceptible to the risks associated with growth. Paxil is contraindicated in pregnant women, but Paxil does not have long-term effects on the growth of newborns. However, it may be associated with other birth defects if used during pregnancy (5).
How to manage Paxil’s effects on growth?
It is important to note that not everyone taking Paxil may experience effects on growth. However, if you do experience any such effects or other adverse reactions while taking Paxil, please inform your healthcare provider.
They may evaluate your current symptoms, other underlying health problems, and response to the medication. If Paxil is causing significant effects on growth, your doctor may adjust the dose and monitor your response.
What are the alternatives to Paxil if it affects your growth?
If the effects on growth while taking Paxil persist, your doctor may recommend an alternative antidepressant such as Celexa, that is more appropriate for you and does not affect growth. Regular follow-ups are advisable while taking antidepressants like Paxil.
Conclusion
According to my research analysis, Paxil has a potential link to growth issues when used for anxiety and depression. Children and teenagers are more susceptible to experiencing growth effects while taking Paxil. Regular monitoring is advisable when Paxil is recommended to young patients.
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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.-
Calarge CA, Mills JA, Karaviti L, Teixeira AL, Zemel BS, Garcia JM. Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors Reduce Longitudinal Growth in Risperidone-Treated Boys. J Pediatr. 2018 Oct;201:245-251. doi: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2018.05.040. Epub 2018 Jun 27. PMID: 29958671; PMCID: PMC6153035. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6153035/
3.-
Wisner KL, Bogen DL, Sit D, McShea M, Hughes C, Rizzo D, Confer A, Luther J, Eng H, Wisniewski SW. Does fetal exposure to SSRIs or maternal depression impact infant growth? Am J Psychiatry. 2013 May;170(5):485-93. doi: 10.1176/appi.ajp.2012.11121873. Erratum in: Am J Psychiatry. 2013 Oct 1;70(10):1218. PMID: 23511234; PMCID: PMC4113116. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23511234/
4.-
Weintrob N, Cohen D, Klipper-Aurbach Y, Zadik Z, Dickerman Z. Decreased growth during therapy with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2002 Jul;156(7):696-701. doi: 10.1001/archpedi.156.7.696. PMID: 12090838. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12090838/
5.-
Thormahlen GM. Paroxetine use during pregnancy: is it safe? Ann Pharmacother. 2006 Oct;40(10):1834-7. doi: 10.1345/aph.1H116. Epub 2006 Aug 22. PMID: 16926304. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16926304/
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