Prozac Medication Side Effects

Prozac is an SSRI used to treat depression, panic, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bulimia and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. Prozac is also used with Zyprexa to control bipolar depressive symptoms. Prozac has been in use for a long time, is widely known and used in psychiatric care. Proxac may also be prescribed for other disorders as your doctor or therapist feels necessary. Prozac has some serious side effects that those in treatment should know about and understand before taking the medication.

Allergic Reactions

• Allergic reactions should be treated immediately. They will worsen with time and may be fatal. Make sure anyone experiencing an allergic reaction to Prozac seeks emergency care. The signs of an allergic reaction are difficulty breathing, skin rash or hives and swelling of face, lips, throat or tongue.

Worsening Symptoms

• Prozac may have adverse effects and intensify initial symptoms experienced before taking Prozac such as anxiety, panic attacks, mood or behavior changes, insomnia, impulsiveness, hostility, hyperactivity (mentally or physically), severe depression or suicidal thoughts.

Serious Side Effects

• You should call your doctor if any of these serious side effects are experienced. These side effects are red skin, rash, blistering skin, peeling skin, rigid muscles, sweating, high fever, tremor, disorientation, hallucinations, fainting, seizure, shallow breathing or breathing that stops, overactive reflexes, uneven or racing heartbeat, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, loss of coordination, headache, trouble concentrating, memory trouble, weakness or confusion.

Less Serious Effects

• The less serious side effects include drowsiness, dizziness, feeling nervous, cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing and sore throat, increased appetite, weight changes, mild nausea, upset stomach, constipation, insomnia, dry mouth, decreased sex drive, impotence or difficulty having an orgasm.

Conclusion

• Prozac is a well established drug used in psychiatric treatment. It is beneficial in many ways, but like all medications, it has side effects to be considered. Please weigh the pros and cons when considering if Prozac is the right medication for you.