Fluoxetine is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) that works as an antidepressant by raising levels of serotonin in the brain. There are few other trade names like Prozac, Sarafem, Fontex. Fluoxetine is generally prescribed to treat the depressive disorders and obsessive compulsive disorders in both adult and pediatric populations. Sometimes it has been used for the treatment of people who are suffering from panic attacks and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

Like every other medicine this antidepressant also has some side-effects on human body and mind. Some of the side-effects of are common and some are rarely found in the users of this drug. Fluoxetine is associated with insomnia, restlessness, nausea, and tension headaches, which usually go away within one to two weeks from the time it was first taken. There are few more side-effects that may remain for the time it is taken. 

Some Common Side-Effects of Fluoxetine

 

According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, symptoms or side-effects of Fluoxetine gradually decrease after the treatment begins in its full form. Often sleep patterns and energy levels of the patients improve fast and indicate that the drug is working. Some side-effects of Fluoxetine are similar to the experiences of other SSRI users. The more common side- effects of Fluoxetine are: 

  • Allergic or Toxic – Rash and skin inflammation with red or purple marks.
  • Neurological – Headache, Tremor, Dizziness, Asthenia
  • Behavioral changes
  • Insomnia
  • Anxiety
  • Nervousness
  • Distress
  • Abnormal dreams
  • Drowsiness
  • Fatigue
  • Autonomic – Excessive sweating
  • Endocrine – Weight loss
  • Musculoskeletal – Muscle pain, Back pain, Joint pain
  • Urogenital – Painful menstruation, Sexual dysfunction, Urinary tract infection, Frequent micturition

 

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