Fluoxetine (Prozac): Uses and Side Effects

In 1974, the research team of the company Eli Lilly and Co. presented the first type of SSRI antidepressant: fluoxetine. This drug ended up becoming the most widely used antidepressant due to its effectiveness and bearable adverse effects.

In this article we will talk about its different uses, its form of administration, as well as its possible side effects and the precautions that should be taken into account by those patients who consume.

• Related article: "Types of antidepressants: characteristics and effects"

What is fluoxetine?

Fluoxetine is an antidepressant popularly known as Prozac. This drug is categorized within the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI) and its main effect in the body is to increase the levels of serotonin. This substance, produced naturally, facilitates the maintenance of mental balance.

Unlike other antidepressants, fluoxetine is distinguished by changes in its chemical structure (it is not a tricyclic or tetracyclic antidepressant) and by notable differences in their mechanism of action.

The success of fluoxetine, which made it the reference drug in the treatment of all these conditions, lies in its high efficacy and quite tolerable side effects.

In addition, due to its selective serotonergic action, it does not cause sedative or cardiovascular adverse effects, the most relevant consequences being dry mouth, weight loss or feelings of anxiety and disturbance.

• You may be interested: "SSRI: types, functioning and effects of this antidepressant"

In what disorders is it used?

As discussed above, fluoxetine has been highly effective in a wide variety of psychological conditions such as:

• Depressive disorders.
• Obsessive compulsive disorder (TOC).
• Eating Disorders.

Also, on some occasions it has proven to be really effective in treating:

• Alcoholism.
• Attention deficit.
• Sleep disturbances
• Chronic headaches.
• Obesity.
• Post-traumatic stress disorder.
• Sexual dysfunctions.

A little known use of fluoxetine is one that aims to reduce the symptoms of the controversial premenstrual dysphoric disorder. This symptomatology includes:

• Alterations in mood.
• Irritability.
• Breast tenderness
• Abdominal distension.

Regarding physical illnesses, fluoxetine has been proposed as a treatment for diseases caused by enteroviruses, as the meningitis or polio, since a possible antiviral property was recently discovered.

Finally, recent research with rodents has shown a neurogenerative effect of fluoxetine. This means that it promotes the creation and development of new neurons in the brain.

How is it administered?

Fluoxetine is available for consumption in both capsules and tablets as well as a liquid solution, all to be administered orally. In any case, it must be taken into account that its consumption and the mode of use must be indicated by the doctor. What follows are generic indications that are usually carried out.

Usually, a progressive start of treatment is recommended; starting with small doses of the drug and spaced apart in time that are gradually increased.

Depending on the specific type of presentation of the drug, it should be taken once a day, every day at the same approximate time or once a week. However, it is essential to follow the administration instructions of the healthcare professional, who will adjust the dose to the patient's needs as the treatment progresses.

In either case, the patient you should not take higher or lower doses than recommended, as well as not changing the frequency of consumption. Since this can have serious consequences on the health of the patient such as tolerance, addiction or withdrawal syndrome.

In the event that the patient alters or changes the doses indicated by the doctor, he may experience the following symptoms:

• Humor changes.
• Irritability.
• Restlessness.
• Dizziness.
• Numbness in the hands or feet.
• Feeling anxious.
• Confusion.
• Headaches.
• Fatigue.
• Sleeping problems.

In cases where it is necessary to stop treatment, it will be done gradually and with the constant supervision of a medical professional.

Side effects

Due to its effects as a serotonin reuptake inhibitor, fluoxetine can cause various adverse effects in the person. It is recommended that if the patient perceives that if these appear frequently or are prolonged in time, they inform their doctor to adjust or change the medication.

The list of most frequent side effects includes:

• Drowsiness.
• Motor problems.
• Dry mouth.
• Visual problems: blurred vision or sensitivity to light.
• Pupillary dilation.
• Urinary problems.
• Constipation.
• Lack of concentration.
• Memory problems short term.

However, there are a series of less frequent but more harmful consequences for the person, among which are:

• Hallucinations.
• Delusions.
• Sexual dysfunctions such as delayed ejaculation or erectile dysfunction.
• Skin problems such as a rash, hives, or blisters.
• Respiratory problems.
• Fainting.
• Excessive muscle spasms or stiffness.
• Seizures.
• Abnormal bleeding or bruising.

After a long period of treatment, fluoxetine can cause hypertension due to its vasoconstrictive action. In addition, on exceptional occasions it may increase the risk of suffering a cardiovascular accident or myocardial infarction, therefore patients with a history or heart problems should be closely monitored of his state of health.

Regarding specific side effects in children, fluoxetine could significantly reduce the child's appetite, causing serious weight loss. In these cases, the pertinent specialist doctor must establish a very tight control of the child's evolution.

What precautions should be taken with its consumption?

As in a large part of drugs, the patient should inform his doctor of any special condition in which he is.

It is necessary that the medical professional be aware of both any allergies of the person, as well as whether you are taking any other type of medication or dietary or vitamin supplement such as tryptophan. In addition, he must also report if you consume any compound of natural herbs as is the case with St. John's wort. Very commonly used as a remedy for depression and anxiety.

In the cases of anticipation of pregnancy, pregnancy or lactation, it should also be reported, since fluoxetine can cause problems in the child once born. Especially if it is administered during the last months of pregnancy.

Finally, due to the sedative effects of fluoxetine, those who regularly drive or that your daily routine involves operating heavy machinery they should exercise special caution or avoid these activities.