Side Effects of Fluox

Fluoxetine, most recognizably sold under the popular brand name Prozac, is a drug used to treat a number of disorders including major depression. The use of Fluoxetine (also know by its shortened term, Fluox) may cause a number of mild-to-severe side effects based on the individual and dose size.

Identification

• Fluoxetine is a popular antidepressant prescription drug intended to treat major depression, bulimia, panic disorder, a severe form of premenstrual syndrome and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Belonging to a group of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI), Fluoxetine replaces imbalanced chemicals in the brain to alter mood. Fluoxetine is also often coupled with other prescription drugs to treat other forms of depression.

Common Side Effects

• Common side effects encountered with the use of Fluoxetine include drowsiness, dizziness, insomnia, dry mouth, upset stomach, constipation, stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat and mild nausea. Although these are common and less serious side effects, the persistence of one or several indicates a greater problem, and you should seek immediate medical attention.

Serious Side Effects

• Any worsening symptoms of depression, including suicidal thoughts and panic attacks, indicates a serious problem and should be dealt with swiftly. In addition to worsening symptoms, Fluoxetine can cause the following severe side effects according to Drugs.com: severe skin irritation, irregular heartbeat and sweating, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, tremors, very stiff muscles, fever, feelings of unsteadiness, headache, memory problems, hallucinations, weakness, confusion and difficulty breathing.

Dosing and Storage

• Never alter the dose size or duration of the medication, and follow the prescription exactly as your doctor prescribes. Tablets should be swallowed whole and never chewed or crushed as doing so can cause an inappropriate release of the medication and lead to severe side effects. Fluoxetine can be taken with or without food. Always store at room temperature away from heat and moisture.

Warning

• Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Fluoxetine as it can increase the severity of certain side effects. Because Fluoxetine is capable of causing drowsiness and dizziness, use extreme caution when operating a car or other heavy machinery. Never consume a double dose to make up for a forgotten or skipped dose. Children may be more susceptible to suicidal thoughts, so use extreme caution in children and consult a doctor first.