"i have been taking 10-mg of paxil for over 20 years and began taking it after surgical menopause in my late 30&#039;s. having dealt with depression/anxiety on and off since i was young, this really transformed my life. my career was very demanding and i was able to have a successful career until retirement a few years ago. i am a professional who worked under very strenuous circumstances and without this medication could probably not have done so.  i did not gain weight but have been an exerciser most of my adult life which, incidentally, also helps a great deal with depression. everyone is different and so is their reaction to medications. this is why it is so important to have a dr. who continues to follow you."