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Reviewed by Prozac, known generically as Fluoxetine, transformed and revolutionized depression after its FDA approval in the 80s due to its favorable safety profile compared to earlier antidepressants such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs).
This improved safety has resulted in fewer early drop-outs and improved patient compliance while maintaining efficacy in easing depressive symptoms. With over 22 million prescriptions issued in the U.S., Prozac is a central component in including major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric conditions.
While Fluoxetine offers numerous benefits, it is important to be aware of its potential side effects for patient safety. Keep reading to learn more about Prozac’s side effects, how to manage them, and what to expect during your treatment journey.
Table Of Contents:
Prozac Overview
Prozac, also known by its generic name Fluoxetine, is a widely used antidepressant belonging to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. Its specific mechanism of action primarily involves modulating serotonin, helping to restore this neurotransmitterโs levels in the brain, leading to positive mood regulation.
Prozac has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of multiple conditions, including:
- Major Depressive Disorder
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder
- Panic Disorder
- Bulimia Nervosa
- Binge Eating Disorder
- Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder
- Bipolar Depression, particularly in treatment-resistant cases when combined with olanzapine
The effectiveness of Prozac can be seen as early as the first week of therapy, and it is favored for its relatively mild side effect profile compared to older antidepressants, such as tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
While Prozac is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience bothersome symptoms during Prozac treatment. Letโs review seven side effects from Prozac:
6 Prozac Side Effects from Common to Serious
Fluoxetine, similar to other antidepressants, increases the levels of serotonin in the brain. While boosting serotonin levels can help reduce depression and lessen neuropathic pain, it may also trigger a range of side effects. These side effects can vary from mildly irritating to severely debilitating or even life-threatening.
Here we provide a list for you to know what to expect while taking Prozac pills:
-
Insomnia
As we mentioned, serotonin has other roles in your body, and the sleep/wake cycle is one of them. Serotonin has been known to play a role in sleep modulation, particularly in how well you do.
When awake, serotonin works with noradrenaline and acetylcholine to keep you alert and responsive. Since Prozac increases serotonin levels, this over-availability of serotonin inhibits REM-sleep effector neurons that tell the brain it is sleeping time.
To manage this side effect:
- Take Prozac in the morning to reduce the risk of insomnia.
- Establish a regular sleep routine and create a restful sleep environment.
- Avoid caffeine and other stimulants, especially in the evening.
- Ask your provider for dosage adjustment, if possible.
-
Nausea
Peculiar enough, 95% of your serotonin receptors are in the GI tract, and only 5% are in your brain. Changes in serotonin levels can have dramatic effects on the gut, which is the reason why gastrointestinal issues are common during Prozac treatment. Serotonin stimulates receptors in the gastrointestinal tract that induce nausea and vomiting.
To minimize this Prozac side effect:
- Take Prozac with food to minimize stomach upset.
- Stay hydrated and eat small, frequent meals.
- Ginger tea or ginger supplements can help reduce nausea.
Considering the high activity of serotonin in the gut, you may wonder: Can Prozac cause heartburn? Probably, but not directly.
95% of serotonin in the gut defines gastrointestinal health, and the remaining 5% is in the brain, our mental health. Yet, one can influence the other. What you think is Prozac acid reflux may be just high levels of anxiety during your depression treatment.
-
Diarrhea
This side effect with Prozac treatment is similar to nausea. Serotonin levels are increased in diarrhea episodes since this neurotransmitter can accelerate intestinal motility.
To help you manage Prozac-induced diarrhea:
- Stay hydrated to prevent dehydration.
- Avoid dairy products and high-fiber foods if they worsen symptoms.
- Consider taking a probiotic to support gut health.
-
Prozac Side Effects Weight Gain
It is not completely clear if weight gain with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Prozac is due to a drug side effect, lack of physical activity, or recovery in mood that may lead to increased appetite and improved eating habits. Yet, among SSRIs, Prozac is one of the least likely to cause significant weight changes.
To avoid drastic weight changes:
- Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise routine.
- Monitor your weight regularly and discuss significant changes with your doctor.
- Seek nutritional counseling if weight changes become a concern.
- Ask for dosage adjustment, if possible.
-
Sexual Problems
This is one of the side effects of Prozac that causes more worry, and they are similar in men and women. Prozac side effects in males may increase erections but inhibit ejaculation. Prozac side effects in women inhibit sexual desire, arousal, and orgasm. These antidepressant sex side effects are common.
To help you manage this scenario:
- Discuss sexual side effects with your doctor. Dose adjustments or switching medications may help.
- Consider scheduling sexual activity to times when side effects are least pronounced.
- Explore other ways to maintain intimacy and communication with your partner.
-
Seizures
Seizures are a serious but less common side effect associated with the use of antidepressants, including SSRIs, and it appear to be dose-dependent. Most of the seizures during antidepressant treatment are caused by an acute overdose. Yet, itโs safe to assume that Prozac can lower the seizure threshold, making seizures more likely in susceptible individuals.
- Inform your doctor if you have a history of seizures or are taking anticonvulsant medications.
- Adhere strictly to the prescribed dosage. Do not suddenly stop taking Prozac.
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience a seizure.
Other Prozac Side Effects
In addition to the more commonly discussed side effects, Prozac can cause a variety of other side effects. These can vary in frequency and severity among individuals.
Check out our list:
- Headache
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Sweating
- Dizziness
- Anxiety
- Restlessness or agitation
- Tremors
- Severe allergic reactions (rash or hives, difficulty breathing, swelling)
- Blurred vision
- Serotonin syndrome (agitation, hallucinations, fever, fast heart rate)
Do Prozac Side Effects Go Away?
Prozac week-by-week side effects, such as nausea, insomnia, and diarrhea, often diminish or go away after a few weeks as your body adjusts to the medication.
However, insomnia, sexual problems, or weight changes may become long-term Prozac side effects. If side effects are severe or do not improve, it’s important to discuss them with your doctor, who may adjust the dosage or suggest an alternative antidepressant.
Stopping Prozac Side Effects
If you decide to quit Prozac due to safety or personal reasons, you may experience Prozac withdrawal symptoms or the return of the original symptoms it was prescribed to treat.
Here are the side effects of quitting Prozac:
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Irritability
- Anxiety
- Sleep Disturbances
- Electric Shock Sensations (โbrain zapsโ)
- Mood Swings
Always avoid quitting Prozac โcold turkey.โ Stopping any medication should be done under professional supervision, and you will need to gradually reduce the dosage of Prozac over several weeks or months to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
Prozac Side Effects โ Bottom Line
Prozac offers significant benefits for treating a variety of mental health conditions, including major depressive disorder, OCD, and panic disorder. While many patients experience relief from their symptoms, side effects are possible.
Most common side effects diminish as the body adjusts to the medication. However, some side effects may persist or emerge after long-term use. If your symptoms persist or you want to discontinue your antidepressant treatment, work closely with your healthcare provider to keep yourself safe. Combining medication with therapy is always a positive mix in your health plan.
People Also Ask
What are the side effects of Prozac?
Common side effects include nausea, insomnia, diarrhea, weight changes (gain or loss), headache, drowsiness, dry mouth, sweating, anxiety, and restlessness. Rash, blurred vision, weakness, loss of appetite, and muscle pain or weakness are less common.
Can fluoxetine cause heartburn?
Yes, fluoxetine may cause indirect gastrointestinal discomfort, including heartburn, due to high serotonin levels in the gut and high anxiety.
How long do Prozac side effects last?
Immediate side effects like nausea typically improve within weeks. Long-term effects such as weight changes or sexual dysfunction may persist throughout treatment.
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Page Sources
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