Fluoxetine Side Effects

Common fluoxetine side effects include nervousness, insomnia, and dry mouth. However, in clinical studies where people took fluoxetine, side effects were, in most cases, minor and either did not require medical attention or were easily treated. Certain side effects of fluoxetine may be more serious, though, and should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately. These possible side effects include increased heart rate, suicidal thoughts or behavior, hallucinations, and panic attacks.

 

Side Effects of Fluoxetine: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with fluoxetine hydrochloride (Prozac®). However, not everyone who takes the antidepressant will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the drug well. When fluoxetine side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with fluoxetine. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of fluoxetine side effects with you.)
 

Fluoxetine Side Effects to Report

There are a number of less common, but more serious side effects of fluoxetine that you should report to your healthcare provider, including, but not limited to:
 
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior (see Prozac and Suicide)
  • Anxiety, agitation, or panic attacks
  • Hostility or aggressiveness
  • Engaging in unusual or dangerous activities
  • Restlessness or inability to sit still
  • Extreme elation or feeling of happiness that may switch back and forth with a depressed or sad mood
  • Other unusual changes in behavior
  • Hallucinations
  • Fast heart rate
  • Chest palpitations
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, including unexplained rash, hives, itching, unexplained swelling, wheezing, or difficulty breathing or swallowing.
 
(Fluoxetine Side Effects Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;