Fluoxetine (Prozac): Understanding Side Effects & Withdrawal

Fluoxetine, which is most commonly sold under the brand name Prozac, is a prescription antidepressant medication used to treat symptoms such as apathy, fatigue, depressed mood and sleep problems. Although it is an effective treatment for many patients, as with all medications, it does carry with it a risk of side effects.

Withdrawal Syndrome

• When fluoxetine use is discontinued abruptly, patients may experience withdrawal syndrome. Symptoms include restlessness, agitation, headaches, and insomnia or drowsiness.

Sexual Side Effects

• Fluoxetine is an SSRI (selective seritonin reuptake inhibitor) drug, and as such carries a risk of sexual side effects. Men and women may experience a lack of interest in sexual activity or difficulty in reaching climax.

Increased Suicidality

• Particularly in young people, there have been reports of rare cases in which a person's suicidal thoughts increased after beginning a course of treatment with fluoxetine.

Drowsiness

• Individuals react differently to fluoxetine. While some may become more active as depression lifts, others find that the medication makes them feel drowsy or slowed.

Allergic Reactions

• Patients who are allergic to fluoxetine may experience symptoms such as a rash or hives, swelling of extremities or the mouth, and in extreme cases, difficulty breathing.

Digestive Problems

• As with most medications, some patients will experience nausea when they take fluoxetine. This problem generally diminishes over time.