Question:
hi - i am thinking of beginning an anti-anxiety medication, but am
concerned about normal side effects. i am a 25 year old female, 105
lbs, and take no other medications, except for the occassional
over-the-counter. i have mild IBS and am concerned that the
medications may give crazy side effects. any advice? i am
particularly interested in taking a liquid form of paxil or zoloft.
any other options?

Answer:
Hey twondering, how are you doing?

Unlike antispasmodics, you need to take an antidepressant regularly rather than 'as required'.
Therefore, an antidepressant is usually only advised if you have persistent symptoms, or frequent bad flare-ups.

There are several types of antispasmodics, and they work in slightly different ways. Your doctor may advise one if you have spasm-type pains.

One type of newer antidepressant (called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, which include Prozac, Paxil, and Zoloft) can cause diarrhea. Older antidepressants (called tricyclic antidepressants) can cause constipation. In particular, it tends to work best if pain and
diarrhoea are the main symptoms.

Many people take an antispasmodic medicine for a week or so at a time to control symptoms when they flare-up. However, some people claim success in controlling their symptoms by identifying food(s) that cause symptoms, and then not eating them.

Below is a few medications from the list of antidepressants. For a full listing, please visit
.

Best wishes,