CAMPAIGN FOR PANIC DRUG
By Adnews Staff
SmithKline Beecham Pharma of Oakville, Ont. is launching a print campaign to inform doctors the anti-depressant drug Paxil can also be used to treat panic disorder. Healthcare Marketing Resources of Mississauga, Ont. has created the ads, which will run in medical journals early next year. Paxil was recently cleared by the Health Protection Branch of Health Canada to be used for panic disorder. People who suffer panic attacks are overwhelmed by feelings of fear or discomfort, and often believe they are very ill, dying or "going mad." Symptoms include heart palpitations, dizziness, shortness of breath, sweating, shaking and chest pains. Attacks may be triggered by stress, caffeine or other stimulants. Paxil is also used for the treatment of depression and obsessive compulsive disorder.