Paxil CR Approved for Social Anxiety Disorder

Longer-lasting version controls 'social phobia'

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FRIDAY, Oct. 17 (HealthDayNews) -- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has approved a longer-lasting version of the antidepressant Paxil for social anxiety disorder, according to the drug's manufacturer, GlaxoSmithKline.

Paxil CR (paroxetine HCl, controlled release) was tested in a 12-week multicenter study among 370 people with social anxiety disorder. Also known as social phobia, the disorder involves an intense fear of being scrutinized by other people in social situations like parties or speaking in public. Symptoms include rapid heartbeat, sweating, shaking and upset stomach.

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Glaxo says it's one of the most underdiagnosed anxiety disorders.

As with similar drugs used to combat anxiety and/or depression, side effects may include decreased sex drive, impotence, insomnia, tremor, and decreased appetite.

To learn more about Paxil (www.paxil.com), visit the Glaxo Web site. For more about social anxiety disorder, see the National Institute of Mental Health (www.nimh.nih.gov).

-- Scott Roberts