The family of a man who took his own life while taking Paxil is suing the drugmaker in 3rd District Court.
Matthew Edward Hines, Salt Lake County, died on Dec. 14, 2002, about the time he was taking Paxil, which is used to treat depression and anxiety, according to the suit.
His suicide was "a spontaneous act committed without warning," the suit says.
Paxil can cause "psychosis, depression, (suicide), aggressiveness, anger and impulsivity," according to the suit. Paxil's maker, GlaxoSmithKline, knew or should have known the potential effects but did not warn the public, the suit says.
Hines' parents, brother, widow and child want compensation for medical and funeral expenses, pain, suffering and loss of income, loss in value of the estate and companionship and services Hines could have provided the family and society. The damages exceed $20,000, the suit says.