Sarafem Side Effects

Runny nose, headache, and nausea are among the most common side effects of Sarafem. Side effects that occur less often (occurring in less than 1 percent of people) can include hair loss, congestive heart failure, and diabetes. Although side effects of Sarafem are mostly minor, there are some more serious side effects that you should report to your healthcare provider. Notify your healthcare provider immediately if you develop side effects such as suicidal behavior, hallucinations, or chest palpitations.

 

Sarafem Side Effects: An Introduction

As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with Sarafem® (fluoxetine hydrochloride). However, not everyone who takes Sarafem will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate the medication well. When Sarafem 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 Sarafem. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of Sarafem side effects with you.)
 

Common Sarafem Side Effects

Sarafem has been studied thoroughly in clinical trials in which the side effects of a group of people taking the drug are documented and compared to another group not taking the medicine.
 As a result, it is possible to see what side effects occur, how often they appear, and how they compare to the group not taking the medicine.
 
In these studies, the most common side effects of Sarafem included:
 
  • An irritated or runny nose -- in up to 23 percent of women
  • Headaches -- up to 15 percent
  • Nausea -- up to 13 percent
  • Loss of appetite -- up to 13 percent
  • Weakness -- up to 12 percent
  • Weight loss -- up to 12 percent (see Sarafem and Weight Loss)
  • Flu-like symptoms, such as chills or fever -- up to 12 percent
  • Insomnia -- up to 10 percent (see Sarafem and Insomnia)
  • A sore throat -- up to 10 percent
  • Pain -- up to 9 percent
  • A decreased sex drive -- up to 9 percent (see Sarafem Sexual Side Effects)
  • Weight gain -- up to 8 percent (see Sarafem and Weight Gain)
  • Accidental injury -- up to 8 percent
  • Infection -- up to 7 percent
  • Dizziness -- up to 7 percent
  • Nervousness -- up to 7 percent
  • Difficulty concentrating -- up to 6 percent.
     
(Sarafem 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;