What is Prozac?
Prozac and its generic counterpart fluoxetine are designed to balance chemicals within the brain to assist in managing anxiety, panic, depression and obsessive-compulsive tendencies. Like many other anxiety meds this drug is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
Prozac is often prescribed for additional disorders including…
- Panic disorders
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
- The Eating disorder bulimia nervosa
Important information about Prozac
The majority of anxiety medications are not compatible with MAO inhibitors. It is recommended that patients stop using an MAO inhibitor two weeks prior to a treatment involving Prozac. Patients should also be aware that because Prozac is an SSRI drug there is the potential for suicidal thoughts early in the treatment. Your doctor may schedule several visits at the start of your treatment to ensure you are adjusting well to the treatment plan.
Prozac is not intended for women who are or may become pregnant. Any developing fetus could suffer lung ailments if their mother is using Prozac while pregnant. If you discover you are pregnant and are taking Prozac you should not immediately stop treatment. Schedule an appointment with your doctor and discuss treatment options.
What to avoid while taking Prozac
You are advised to consider the side effects listed below. You should know that the consumption of alcohol while taking Prozac could amplify these side effects making them acutely dangerous.
Because Prozac can cause issues for patients who must use critical thinking skills you should exercise great care when driving or operating heavy machinery.
Cold and allergy medications along with sleep aids; muscle relaxants and narcotic pain management drugs can all be extremely problematic for Prozac users. You are urged to refrain from the use of these medications unless otherwise instructed by your physician.
Possible side effects of Prozac
The most severe reactions to Prozac may have been listed in the “Important information” section above, but you should know more about the side effects of this drug.
For instance allergic reactions tend to show up in facial swelling, hives or a skin rash. Other side effects include…
- Blistering and peeling skin
- Breathing difficulties
- Cold symptoms
- Elevated or irregular heartbeat
- Hallucinations
- Headache
- Hostility
- Impotence
- Insomnia
- Memory loss
- Mood swings
- Nausea
- Seizure
- Trembling
- Very little appetite
Other side effects exist. You should consult with your doctor whenever you have concerns over behavior or symptoms that you view as unusual.
What do I do if I overdose on Prozac?
Medical attention should be sought in any situation where an overdose has occurred. In the case of Prozac some of the symptoms of overdose include…
- Coma
- Confusion
- Fainting
- Fever
- Nausea
- Rapid uneven heartbeat
- Vomiting
- Seizures
- Sleepiness
Additional warnings
Aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs may cause problems when taking Prozac. Consult your physician for guidance.
Where can I get more information?
Drug manufacturer Eli Lilly provides a website that contains information about Prozac. You can find this website at www.prozac.com
Additional information can be found by visiting with your doctor or pharmacist.
