Good for panic attacks, side effects I took Paxil for 7 years, when I began the medication it worked wonders it really help with panic and the physical symptoms associated with anxiety. After 7 years it was hardly working. I put on 3 stone during this time, side effects included dizziness, poor concentration, increased appetite, drowsiness. Paxil was very difficult to come off anxiety returned with a vengenance and depression was much worse. Its over 2 years since I quit Paxil I still don't feel right, but I accept it did help me at the beginning of treatment.