Paxil for hypochondria? had bad reaction to effexor, (venlafaxine) and 1 doc wants to try paxil, another suggested celexa. i have severe hypochondria.

Try for a cure?: I'm not a psychiatrist, so please take this for what it's worth. Whatever medication you try, please also consider some tough-minded psychotherapy -- the kind in which you talk straight, hear truths you may not want to hear, and discover your own power to change your behaviors and thought patterns. You may amaze yourself with the inner resources you discover. You have my best wishes.

Hypochondriasis: Hypochondriasis is a type of anxiety where you worry intensely about your health. Paxil (paroxetine) (and other ssri's) can help calm anxiety, but will not "cure" hypochondriasis. The main treatment will be ongoing psychotherapy -- cognitive behavioral therapy can be very helpful in conjunction with medications. You'll learn to understand yourself better, and develop tools to deal with your fears.

Best thing for hypo-: Chondria is cognitive therapy. E.G., talking with a therapist. Giving you medications because you worry that you have a dread disease that you don't just sort of "feeds the beast".

CBT: Taking medication without getting therapy for your health anxiety will not be curative. Paxil has more potential for side effects than Celexa. If you haven't looked into cognitive behavioral therapy would do so.