Fluoxetine Effects

Fluoxetine is a prescription medication used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bulimia nervosa, panic disorder, anorexia nervosa, alcoholism, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, Raynaud phenomenon, attention deficit disorder, headaches, posttraumatic stress disorder, Tourette's syndrome and obesity. The brand names of fluoxetine are Prozac and Sarafem. This medication is in the serotonin reuptake inhibitor medication class and works by balancing natural substances in the brain.

Administration

Fluoxetine is available in capsules, delayed release capsules, liquid and tablets. This medication is taken at approximately the same time each day by mouth with or without food. Your physician may initially prescribe a low dose of fluoxetine and gradually increase the dose to a therapeutic level. This medication may be taken for four to five weeks before the full benefits are felt.

Side Effects

Fluoxetine may cause side effects, such as nausea, nervousness, diarrhea, abnormal dreams, dry mouth, sore throat, weakness, drowsiness, involuntary shaking of a body part, weight loss, decreased appetite, excessive sweating and problems with sex drive or ability to orgasm. Contact your physician for further advice if these side effects become bothersome.

Serious Side Effects

Serious side effects, including serotonin syndrome, severe allergic reaction, mania, low levels of salt in the blood, abnormal bleeding, seizures and severe muscle stiffness can occur when taking fluoextine. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include agitation, hallucinations, coordination problems, fast heartbeat, fever, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, rash, joint pain, problems breathing or swallowing and swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes or mouth.

Mania and Hyponatremia

Symptoms of mania include extreme irritability, decreased need to sleep and the feeling of having too much energy or feeling pressured to keep talking. Low levels of salt in the blood, also called hyponatremia, can produce symptoms, such as headache, weakness, confusion, problems with concentration or memory and unsteadiness while walking. Contact your physician or, if severe, seek emergency medical attention immediately if you experience any serious side effects.

Withdrawal Symptoms

You should not stop this medication without physician guidance, even if you feel better. Suddenly stopping fluoxetine can cause withdrawal symptoms that include irritability, mood changes, dizziness, agitation, anxiety, headache, confusion, tiredness, insomnia and tingling or numbness in the feet or hands.

Warnings

Fluoxetine therapy can increase suicidal thinking and behavior, especially in people 24 years of age or younger in the first couple months of treatment. No matter your age, you or a loved one should contact your physician immediately if you experience signs of worsening or new depression, thoughts or plans to hurt or kill yourself, extreme worry, panic attacks, agitation, aggressive behavior, irritability, insomnia, impulsive actions, abnormal excitement and severe restlessness.

References

• MedlinePlus
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration for more about Prozac
• Nursing 2010 Drug Handbook; Lippincott, Williams and Wilkins; May 1, 2009

Resources

• MedlinePlus for depression information