Fluoxetine (Prozac): uses, precautions and side effects

This antidepressant is one of the most widely used to combat certain mental disorders.

In 1974, the Eli Lilly and Co. research team introduced the first type of SSRI antidepressant: fluoxetine. the first type of SSRI antidepressant: fluoxetine.. This drug eventually became 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 to be taken into account by those patients who take it.

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 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 neither a tricyclic nor a tetracyclic antidepressant) and by the notable differences in its mechanism of action. differences in its mechanism of action..

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

In addition, 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 discussed above, fluoxetine has been found to be highly effective in a wide variety of psychological conditions such as:

• Depressive disorders.
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
• Eating disorders.

Likewise, in some occasions it has proved to be really effective in the treatment of:

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

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

• Mood disturbances.
• Irritability.
• Breast tenderness.
• Abdominal distension.

In terms of physical illnesses, fluoxetine has been proposed as a treatment for diseases caused by enteroviruses, such as meningitis or poliomyelitis.such as meningitis or poliomyelitis, since a possible antiviral property was recently discovered.

Finally, recent research with rodents has demonstrated a neurogenerating 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 capsules and tablets as well as in liquid solution, all to be administered orally. In any case, it should be borne in mind that its consumption and the way it is used must be indicated by the doctor.. The following are generic indications that are usually carried out.

Usually, a progressive beginning of the treatment is recommended; starting with small doses of the drug and distant small doses of the drug and distanced in the time that they are increasing gradually..

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

In any of the cases, the patient should not take higher or lower doses than those recommended, nor change the frequency of administration.and the frequency of consumption should not be changed. This can have serious consequences on the patient's health, such as tolerance, addiction or withdrawal syndrome.

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

• Mood changes..
• Irritability.
• Restlessness.
• Dizziness.
• Numbness of hands or feet.
• feeling of anxiety.
• Confusion.
• Headaches.
• Fatigue.
• Sleep problems.

In cases where it is necessary to stop treatment, it will be done gradually and under 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 are prolonged in time, he/she should inform his/her physician in order to adjust or change the medication.

The list of the most frequent side effects includes:

• Drowsiness.
• Motor problems.
• Dry mouth.
• Visual problems: blurred vision or sensitivity to light.
• Pupil dilation.
• Urinary problems.
• constipation
• Lack of concentration.
• Short-term memory short term.

However, there are a number 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.
• Breathing problems.
• Fainting.
• Excessive muscle spasms or stiffness.
• Seizures.
• Abnormal bleeding or bruising.

After a long period of treatment, fluoxetine may cause hypertension due to its vasoconstrictor action. In addition, in exceptional cases, it may increase the risk of a cardiovascular accident or myocardial infarction, so that patients with a history of heart disease or cardiac problems should closely monitor their health. of their state of health.

As regards specific side effects in children, fluoxetine could considerably reduce the child's appetite, causing a serious weight loss. In these cases, the relevant medical specialist should establish a very close control of the child's evolution.

What precautions should be taken with its consumption?

As with most drugs, the patient should inform his or her physician of any special condition he or she may have.

It is necessary that the medical professional is aware of any Allergy of the person, as well as if he/she is taking any other type of medication or dietary or vitamin supplement such as tryptophan. In addition, he/she should also report if he/she consumes any natural herbal compound such as St. John's wort. It is very commonly used as a remedy for depression and anxiety.

In cases of anticipated pregnancy, pregnancy or breastfeeding 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 people who drive regularly or who's daily routine involves the operation of heavy machinery should exercise special caution or avoid these activities.