Can Prozac Help IBS Symptoms?

Patients who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome along with pain and depression often benefit from taking an antidepressant such a Prozac. Irritable bowel syndrome is a bothersome condition that causes rotating cycles of chronic diarrhea and constipation.

Function

• Antidepressant medications regulate neuron activity responsible for controlling the intestines.

Benefits

• Irritable bowel syndrome often occurs along with depression. Individuals with both depression and irritable bowel syndrome may find Prozac especially beneficial.

Considerations

• According to the Cleveland Clinic, SSRIs antidepressants are most effective when prescribed to those individuals who have irritable bowel syndrome characterized mostly by constipation. Those with frequent diarrhea should not take SSRIs such as Prozac because these medications may make diarrhea worse.

Types

• Antidepressants that may be helpful in treating irritable bowel syndrome include SSRIs such as Prozac, Sarafem and Paxil or tricylic antidepressants such as Tofranil and amitriptyline.

Effects

• Side effects of antidepressants taken for irritable bowel syndrome include constipation and drowsiness.

Time Frame

• It may take up to four weeks for Prozac to alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.