Prozac problem
Question
Does Prozac have many side effects? I've looked it up on websites and all I seem to be able to find is that the side effects are quite limited but it can cause nausea. Is this true or are there other side effects?
Answer
Prozac is a psychiatric medication usually prescribed to those diagnosed with symptoms of depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder or bulimia. As with all psychiatric medications, there are several possible side effects that can be a result of taking Prozac. Side effects can vary from person to person and it's important to note those listed below are possible side-effects which means some people taking Prozac may experience them, but some may not, and some may even experience others not mentioned here.
As you said, nausea is the most common side effect (with 25% of people experiencing this). Other side effects may include:
- Weight loss
- Dry mouth
- Insomnia
- Tremors
- Diarrhoea
- Skin rash (NB: any signs of allergic reaction should be reported to the doctor who prescribed the medication)
- Confusion or dizziness.
Prozac may also affect sexual performance and has not been proven to be safe in pregnancy. And like most psychiatric medications, it may impair driving performance or operation of machinery.
Some reports have linked Prozac with suicidal and violent behaviour, which is obviously concerning, but this has not been clearly established and so it is best to monitor any feelings relating to this and consider speaking to the doctor immediately if this seems to be the case.
Most anti-depressant medications take two to four weeks to take effect and settle down, so in the early stages, it can be difficult to monitor the effects it is having. Also, it is not advisable to stop taking Prozac suddenly or even change the dosage as this can cause the person to experience 'rebound symptoms', a return to the original symptoms that can sometimes be even more severe than in the first place. You can find out more about anti-depressants on the Rethink website and the Mind website.
It is not clear from your whether your question relates to you or another person but if you are worried or concerned about medication you're taking it can be useful to discuss this with the prescribing doctor, particularly if the side effects are significant enough to be interfering with day to day living. In addition, you can call the Medical Advisory Service weekdays from 6pm-8pm on 020 8994 9874.
Any mental health issue can be difficult to cope with, if you would like to talk to someone about the situation, you can call SANELINE on 0845 767 8000, between 12pm and 2am everyday, to discuss things further. Anyone can call SANELINE, including concerned friends and family members, as well as people with mental health issues.
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Question answered by SANE
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