Two months ago I was the biggest supporter of Paxil anyone could ever ask for. I had been on it for 5 years and it had given me my life back, as far as keeping out of the bathroom.The thing is, I had gained about 50 pounds, but I didn't care. I had no sex drive, but I didn't care. I had no emotions, but I didn't care.On March 10 of this year, I had surgery to repair a torn rotator cuff, and I was off work for 3 weeks to recover. I had a lot of time to evaluate my life, and I realized that since I have been on the Paxil, my entire life has been falling apart around me, and I simply couldn't care less. The Paxil had totally turned off all emotions, and I had to decide between IBS relief or my life, and I chose my life. I quit the Paxil last Wednesday (4/12/06) cold turkey - not recommended, believe me - it was one of the dumbest moves I have ever made, should have tapered!I have had IBS since I was 5 years old, formally diagnosed at 20, and have suffered like everyone here on this board for a very long time from this debilitating condition. Being able to get up in the morning and leave the house instead of sitting around waiting to be sure I was done using the bathroom, not suffering from the terrible pain, etc. was an absolutely wonderful thing for me after starting the Paxil, but when it really started affecting my health, and the well being of my family, is when I got scared.BTW, I am starting Zelnorm now because I am IBS C/D, and so far it has helped pretty well, although not as well as the Paxil did.Please just consider what I am saying about this medicine. Having no emotions is truly not a good thing, and if you are taking the Paxil simply for the IBS, and not anxiety or depression, just investigate other options before making a firm decision.Terri