Prozac Facts and Side Effects, Including Deeper Depression Leading to Suicide

Everything You Need to Know About Prozac

By prescription only, Prozac is used to treat depression, anxiety, fatigue, pain, or even obesity. Many people have challenged that the drug causes some people to be more depressed than previously - even to the point of suicide. Although the drug manufacturer makes the claim that Prozac is relatively safe, lawsuits abound claiming that the drug caused worse health problems than before taking it. As a matter of fact, the drug has already been taken off the market in some countries.

Introduced in the late 80's, Prozac is a Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor. It works by aiding in the sending and receiving of messages to and from the brain. Prozac assists in making more serotonin available in the system.

It's well-known that Prozac can cause nausea, insomnia, drowsiness, anxiety, tremors, sweating, decreased sex drive and even impotence. The side effects are usually mild but can become severe, in some people. But, some people have, while taking the drug, experienced suicidal thoughts, severe depression, unusual behavior, mood swings and anger outbursts.

Although some people have committed suicide while taking Prozac it has not been definitively proven that Prozac was the cause. And, considering how many people take the drug, the suicide numbers are very low.

If you are taking Prozac or you're a relative of someone who is, notify the attending physician immediately upon noticing any thoughts of suicide, hostility, aggression, agitation, panic attacks, or hyperactivity. Rarer side effects include confusion, seizures, quickening of heartbeat, and swollen glands.

Prozac cannot be taken with MAO inhibitors - doing so can prove fatal. Do not take Prozac if you have diabetes, liver disease or recent heart problems. Avoid Prozac if you're pregnant or breast-feeding.