Thoughts on Prozac

Hi, I have tried many different meds over the years and Prozac (actually it's generic Fluoxetine) is the only one that has really worked for me. I think its a matter of what works best with your body chemistry. One thing about Prozac is you do have to give it a bit of time to start working. I've been on it for about 10 years and the only side effect I've had is dry mouth. I have OCD, so I take 40 to 60 mgs when my thoughts start cranking up, but 20 mgs is plenty enough to keep the depression and anxiety at bay for me. But everyone's body is different so you just have to give it a try and don't get discouraged. One thing you should know--I think it is true about most of these meds--is that your anxiety can temporarily INCREASE when you first start taking them, but that is actually a good thing because it means your body is "accepting" the meds. So don't panic if you start feeling a bit more anxious initially. It's completely normal. I didn't understand that years ago and I wouldn't stay on the meds because I felt like they were doing more harm than good initially.

Kortnie,

That will depend on your body. It's not terribly long, though. You'll be able to make it through it. When you go to therapy tomorrow, go ahead and ask your therapist to help with some coping skills to help handle the side effects. It will be worth it when everything balances out. :)

I understand, I worry about taking medicines, too. Especially new ones. My husband really, really worries about it.

Here's a thought about Prozac, though - consider how well known it is and how long it's been on the market. Everyone has heard of it. It's been in use for years upon years. Your doctor probably has dozens of patients on it, hundreds if you're in a metropolitan area. Your pharmacy probably fills it every day. It's time tested and proven. It's something both your doctor and your pharmacist has been dealing with long enough to understand and be confident in.

Peace to you, friend!