Side
Effects of Prozac
Bethany Jordin - 1/25/2009
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Understanding the Side Effects of Prozac is Key to Effective Treatment
Prozac is commonly prescribed to treat depression, anxiety disorders, bulimia, premenstrual dysphoric disorder and
other similar conditions. Taking this medication should bring about improvements in appetite, energy, ability to
sleep, general mood, and overall sense of well being. More importantly, for those who suffer from panic attacks is
the fact that it is widely believed to decrease anxiety and fears as well as the compulsions that may accompany
them. Unfortunately, despite the many benefits of taking Prozac there are a few side effects of Prozac that are
difficult to ignore.
The first of these side effects is the most alarming. It is believed that taking antidepressants such as Prozac may
actually lead to a worsening depressive state in even to thoughts of suicide in a small percentage of those taking
the medication. When you consider that the purpose of the medication is to treat these conditions, this news can be
upsetting. There seems to be a greater risk in patients under the age of 25 though anyone taking this medication
should look for symptoms of increased depression. Not only is this a potential problem when first taking the
medication but also at any time when the dosage is adjusted (whether up or down). Be watchful for these symptoms as
long as you are taking this medication though and notify your doctor immediately if you feel your symptoms are
worsening, changing, or you have thoughts of suicide.
Other side effects of Prozac should also be considered because some of them will bother different people
differently. You will need to decide whether or not you are willing to endure the side effects in hopes of treating
your condition. These side effects of Prozac are: uncontrolled movements, agitation, restlessness, twitchy muscles,
unexplained fever, loss of coordination, hallucinations, seizures, muscle spasms, and tremors just to get
started.
You should also be mindful of your blood sugar before taking Prozac as well as for the duration of your treatment
with Prozac. It is a good idea to think twice about taking this medication if you have diabetes, liver disease, or
a problem with alcohol as one of the side effects of Prozac may exacerbate these conditions.
Prozac is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) and should not be taken in conjunction with MAO
inhibitors. It should also not be taken within two weeks before or five weeks after treatment with these
medications. Be sure to talk with your doctor if you've been taking an MAO inhibitor about the possible risks and
interactions that could result from these medications. It is important to notify your doctor of any and all drugs
(prescription, over the counter, and street drugs) that you are taking as well as any herbal supplements, remedies,
and multivitamins that you are taking that could pose a risk of interaction or increase the likelihood of certain
side effects of Prozac. Even taking aspirin in conjunction with Prozac can have serious health consequences so
avoid doing so unless closely monitored and specifically instructed to do so. If you wish to avoid the side effects
of Prozac altogether, there are herbal remedies to treat depression you may wish to consider.
About the author:
Bethany Jordin is an Information Technology professional and aspiring writer who was clinically diagnosed with SAD
(Social Anxiety Disorder) in 2007.
Source: http://www.naturalantidepressants.info
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