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Prozac Side Effects
Approved by the FDA in 1986/1987, Prozac (generic name, Fluoxetine)
is undoubtedly one of the most widely prescribed antidepressants ever. Prozac
is typically prescribed for the treatment of continuing major depression,
that is, depression that interferes with daily functioning. The symptoms of
major depression often include changes in appetite, sleep habits, and mind/body
coordination; decreased sex drive; increased fatigue; feelings of guilt or
worthlessness; difficulty concentrating; slowed thinking; and suicidal thoughts.
Prozac may also be prescribed at times for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive
disorder and panic disorder, (including panic associated with agoraphobia
- a severe fear of being in crowds or public places).
Prozac Side Effects
While not everyone taking Prozac will experience any side effects, the side
effects that some experience will likely include loss of appetite, tremors,
dry mouth, sweating, nausea, difficulty sleeping, drowsiness, anxiety, nervousness,
weakness, decreased sex drive, impotence, and/or yawning. These side effects
tend to be mild and typically disappear within a few weeks of starting treatment.
Generally also, these side effects are not consider serious enough to cause
most individuals to stop taking Prozac entirely. If however you are tkaing
Prozac and develop a rash, let your doctor know immediately.
It is quite possible for side effects other than those listed here to occur.
If this happens and/or if any seem particularly strange or bothersome, contact
a healthcare provider.
Special Prozac Precautions
A rash may be a sign of a serious medical condition. See your doctor immediately
if you are taking Prozac and develop a rash. Also, you should never take Prozac
at the same time as or within 2 weeks of stopping a type of antidepressant
medication that is known as an MAO inhibitor. You should not take MAO inhibitors
for at least 5 weeks after stopping Prozac.
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Prozac or
similar drugs (such as Paxil and Zoloft), you should not take Prozac. Ensure
that your doctor is aware of any drug reactions that you have experienced
in the past.
Thioridazine should not be administered with Prozac or within a minimum of
5 weeks after PROZAC has been discontinued.
Unless you are directed to do so by your doctor, do not take Prozac if you
are recovering from a heart attack or if you have liver disease or diabetes.
Prozac should be used with caution if you have a history of seizures. You
should discuss all of your past and current medical conditions with your doctor
before taking this medication.
Prozac may cause you to become drowsy or less alert and may affect your judgment.
Thus, driving or operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous
activity that requires full mental alertness is not recommended while taking
this drug.
Do not drink alcohol while taking Prozac. If Prozac is taken with certain
other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered.
It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Prozac
with any prescription and non-prescription drugs.
Warning: This information is intended to
supplement, not be a substitute for the expertise and judgment of
a doctor. Please consult a doctor for final and more detailed information
about the possible side effects of this prescription medication.
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