The medication fluoxetine acts to treat depression by increasing serotonin in your brain. It is one of the drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). A doctor may also prescribe fluoxetine to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, bulimia nervosa, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and panic disorder. The medication can cause a number of side effects.
Suicidal Thoughts
Taking fluoxetine may cause you to have thoughts of hurting yourself, especially if you are less than 24 years of age. Consult with your doctor, who should be monitoring your progress and behavior through the first few weeks of taking fluoxetine, according to Drugs.com.
Withdrawal Problems
You may set off a number of withdrawal side effects if you stop taking fluoxetine suddenly. Mayo Clinic staff advise gradual reduction of the medication over time in order to avoid feeling agitated, confused or dizzy. You may also develop breathing problems, faster heartbeat and chest pains if you stop taking the drug too quickly.
Stomach Upset
Taking fluoxetine may cause stomach aches or vomiting. Other gastrointestinal problems Drugs.com warns you may suffer while taking fluoxetine include diarrhea or constipation, changes in appetite, dry mouth and weight changes. You may even develop gastrointestinal bleeding.
Blood Sugar Levels
Taking fluoxetine may cause changes in your blood sugar levels. Diabetic patients using fluoxetine should be especially careful to monitor blood sugar, according to Mayo Clinic staff.
Nervousness, Hallucinations
You may become nervous or see things that aren't there when taking fluoxetine. Hallucinations are one of the dangerous side effects the National Institutes of Health warns of. If you become agitated, nervous or have hallucinations while taking the drug, call your doctor immediately.
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