Prozac Health Risks

Health risks associated with Prozac use include:

• Possible development of serotonin syndrome when Prozac is taken with triptan medicines
• Infant persistent pulmonary hypertension
• Suicidal thoughts or actions
• Possible allergic reactions, such as skin rash, hives, breathing problems, or swelling of the tongue, lips, or throat
• Bleeding Problems
• Mania (becoming unusually hyperactive, excitable, or elated)
• Seizures (convulsions), even if not taken within a close period of time with a MAOI
• Problems if you are or may become pregnant; babies delivered to mothers taking Prozac late in pregnancy have developed problems, such as difficulty breathing and feeding.
• Weight loss
• Sexual Problems, including impotence (erectile dysfunction), abnormal ejaculation, difficulty reaching orgasm, or decreased libido (sexual desire)

Other side effects from Prozac use may include:

• Nausea
• Difficulty sleeping
• Anxiety
• Nervousness
• Sleepiness

Do not stop taking Prozac suddenly. Doing so may result in harmful side effects. Your healthcare professional should slowly decrease your dose.

Can Other Medicines or Food Affect Prozac?

Prozac and certain other medicines can interact with each other. Tell your healthcare professional about all the medicines you take - including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements, and especially:

• Those that affect bleeding
• Those used to treat diabetes, seizures, anxiety, mental illness, or depression

Do not take Prozac with Sarafem (Prozac hydrochloride), a drug used to treat PreMenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD). These drugs are very similar and could result in an overdose.

If you plan to drink alcohol when taking Prozac, talk to your healthcare professional.