Fluoxetine (Prozac): Uses, Precautions And Side Effects
In 1974, the research team at Eli Lilly and Co. presented the first type of SSRI antidepressant: fluoxetine This drug ended up becoming the most used antidepressant due to its effectiveness and tolerable adverse effects.
In this article we will talk about its different uses, its method of administration, as well as its possible side effects and the precautions that patients who consume it should take into account.
Fluoxetine is an antidepressant popularly known as Prozac This drug is categorized within the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and its main effect on the body is to increase serotonin levels. 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 the notable differences in their mechanism of action
The success of fluoxetine, which led it to be the reference drug in the treatment of all these conditions, lies in its high effectiveness and quite tolerable side effects
Furthermore, due to its selective serotonergic action, it does not cause sedative or cardiovascular adverse effects, its most relevant consequences being dry mouth, weight loss or feelings of anxiety and alteration.
In what disorders is it used?
As mentioned above, fluoxetine has been highly effective in a wide variety of psychological conditions such as:
Likewise, on some occasions it has proven to be really effective in the treatment of:
A little-known use of fluoxetine is that it aims to reduce the symptoms of the controversial premenstrual dysphoric disorder. This symptomatology includes:
Regarding physical illnesses, fluoxetine It has been proposed as a treatment for diseases caused by enteroviruses such as meningitis or poliomyelitis, since a possible antiviral property was recently discovered.
Finally, recent research with rodents has demonstrated 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 and as a liquid solution, all to be administered orally. In any case, it must be taken into account that Its consumption and method 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 over time that gradually increase
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 changing the frequency of consumption. Since this can have serious consequences on the patient’s health such as tolerance, addiction or withdrawal syndrome.
If the patient alters or changes the doses indicated by the doctor, he or she may experience the following symptoms:
Humor changes
Irritability.
Concern.
Vertigo
Numbness of hands or feet.
Feeling of anxiety
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 notices that these appear frequently or last for a long 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 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. Furthermore, in exceptional cases it can increase the risk of suffering a cardiovascular accident or a myocardial infarction, so Patients with a history or cardiac problems should be closely monitored of your state of health.
Regarding specific side effects in children, fluoxetine could considerably reduce the child’s appetite, causing serious weight loss. In these cases, the relevant medical specialist must establish a very tight control of the child’s evolution.
What precautions should be taken with its consumption?
As with most medications, the patient must inform their doctor of any special condition they have.
It is necessary for the medical professional to be aware of any allergies the person has, as well as whether the person is taking any other type of medication or dietary or vitamin supplement such as tryptophan. In addition, you must also report if you consume any natural herbal compounds as is the case of St. John’s wort. Very commonly used as a remedy for depression and anxiety.
In cases of anticipated pregnancy, pregnancy or breastfeeding, information 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 drive regularly or Your daily routine involves operating heavy machinery They should take special caution or avoid these activities.
