Q. I am taking Paxil for OCD/Depression but I think I exhibit borderline traits too. This week I stormed out of the office where I worked and announced my resignation. I had cut back my medication dosage in an attempt to taper off, and it may have contributed to my abrupt quitting without a real explanation given.

Would it be a good idea to tell my (now former) boss that I'm on Paxil, I had cut back, and now I agree to stay on full dosage? Would they view it as just an excuse?

A. You have nothing to lose. The medications we use are powerful to the extent they can control emotions. Paxil reduction to a lower level could easily resulted in your outburst. I would talk it over with you ex-boss, and see what happens. At the very least, you will be no worse off than you currently are. Its a painful reminder of the need to not reduce medications without consulting your doctor, and then following up closely for monitoring to avoid these situations.