Concerta, the brand name of the medication methylphenidate, treats attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, or ADHD; fluoxetine, often sold under the brand name Prozac, treats major depressive disorder, bulimia nervosa, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder, among others. Each medication may produce side effects when used on its own, but taking the two together may increase the severity of these side effects. Anyone interested in taking these medications, either alone or together, should talk to a doctor.
Concerta
Common side effects of Concerta, according to Drugs.com, include weight loss, nervousness, insomnia, sweating, mild skin rash, vision problems, dizziness, mild headache, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and a numbness, tingling or cold feeling in the hands or feet. Serious side effects are rare, and include dangerously high blood pressure, purple spots on the skin, easy bruising, motor tics, unusual behavior, hallucinations, restlessness, aggression, feeling faint, uneven heartbeats, fever, sore throat, and a headache with a peeling, blistering and red skin rash. People experiencing these serious side effects should call their doctor immediately.
Fluoxetine
Common side effects of fluoxetine, according to Drugs.com, include dry mouth, sexual dysfunction, sleep problems, increased appetite, weight changes, mild nausea, constipation, upset stomach, dizziness, nervousness, drowsiness, and cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing and sore throat. Serious side effects include severe nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of coordination, trouble concentrating, memory problems, confusions, rigid muscles, high fever, sweating, irregular heartbeats, overactive reflexes, tremors, seizures, shallow breathing, irregular breathing patterns, or a severe peeling, blistering and red skin rash. Fluoxetine may also increase the risk of suicidal thinking in children, adolescents and young adults. Patients experiencing any of these symptoms should contact a doctor immediately.
Combination
Individuals who take Concerta and fluoxetine at the same time may experience more intense side effects that those who take either medication separately, according to Drugs.com, which adds that Concerta may also inhibit a person’s ability to properly metabolize fluoextine. Doctors should carefully monitor the side effects in patients who take both medications, and adjust dosages as needed.
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