How Prozac Works for Panic Disorder

How Prozac Works for Panic Disorder Panic Disorder Treatment Print How Prozac Works for Panic Disorder By Katharina Star, PhD facebook linkedin Katharina Star, PhD, is an expert on anxiety and panic disorder. Dr. Star is a professional counselor, and she is trained in creative art therapies and mindfulness. Learn about our editorial policy Katharina Star, PhD Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on August 05, 2016 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on December 13, 2019 Paul S. Howell/Getty Images More in Panic Disorder Treatment Symptoms Diagnosis Coping Related Conditions In This Article Table of Contents Expand Understanding Prozac How Prozac Treats Panic Disorder Prozac and Panic Disorder ?Common Side Effects Rare Side Effects How Quickly Prozac Works Stopping Prozac View All Back To Top If you have panic disorder, you will likely be treated with antidepressant medication. One popular antidepressant used to treat panic disorder and other conditions is Prozac (fluoxetine). Understanding Prozac Prozac is the trademark name of the drug fluoxetine, a medication belonging to a class of antidepressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). SSRIs first became available in the United States in the 1980s and quickly came to be the most commonly prescribed type of antidepressant medication. Due to the effectiveness, safety, and limited side effects of SSRIs, their popularity continues to grow. Being the first SSRI introduced in the U.S., Prozac is the most well-known and prescribed antidepressant. Doctors initially prescribed Prozac to treat depression. However, research has shown that it can treat a variety of mental health  and medical conditions. Currently, Prozac is used to treat a major depressive disorder, bipolar disorder, eating disorders, chronic pain, migraines, irritable bowel syndrome, and anxiety disorders, including obsessive-compulsive disorder,  panic disorder, and  agoraphobia. How Is Prozac Used to Treat Anxiety? How Prozac Treats Panic Disorder Prozac stabilizes your levels of serotonin, a naturally-occurring chemical in the brain thats linked to how we regulate our moods. People with mood and anxiety disorders have an imbalance of serotonin. As an SSRI, Prozac works to influence serotonin by inhibiting its absorption in nerve cells in the brain. How SSRIs Are Used in the Treatment of Panic Disorder Common Side Effects Prozac has the potential for side effects, which often vary for different people. Some of the most common side effects include: Sleep disturbancesHeadachesFatigueDizzinessLightheadednessDry mouthNervousnessIncreased sweatingSexual side effectsYawningHeartburnConfusionAnxietyBlurred visionNausea Many people experience side effects that later subside or become less bothersome. Please note that these are only some of the side effects that can occur while taking Prozac. Consult your doctor if you experience any side effects that become unmanageable or don’t go away. Your doctor will need to monitor your reaction to your medication, especially when initially starting with Prozac or when adjusting your dosage. Understanding Prozacs Side Effects and Drug Interactions Rare Side Effects As with any medication, there is the potential to experience an allergic reaction to Prozac. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following rare side effects: VomitingSeizuresRash or hivesDifficulty breathing or swallowingSwelling of the face, mouth, or tongueExtreme nervousness and anxietyFeelings of confusionJoint painFeverStrange bleeding or bruisingAccelerated heart rateSuicidal thoughts or behaviors How Quickly Prozac Works Don’t expect Prozac to immediately make you feel better. Improvements are often noticed days to weeks after starting Prozac, but it can actually take up to several months before you experience the full effect. Try to give your medication some time before determining whether or not its helping you. Stopping Prozac Never abruptly stop taking your prescription. Although Prozac is long-acting and tends to taper itself, discontinuing it on your own may lead to withdrawal symptoms, such as increased anxiety and irritability, headaches, confusion, and lightheadedness. Additionally, your panic disorder symptoms can worsen if you suddenly stop taking your medication. Your dosage of Prozac can be gradually and safely reduced with your doctors guidance. How to Taper Off Your Antidepressant Medication Precautions There are several precautions with Prozac, including: Black box warning: In 2007, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a black box warning for all SSRIs. The FDA cautioned that SSRI usage has the potential to increase thoughts and behaviors related to suicide. This issue was found to be particularly concerning for adolescents and young adults who are taking SSRIs. Prescribing doctors must be especially observant of young people just beginning SSRI usage and monitor for signs of worsening mood or any suicidal thoughts.Pregnancy/nursing: Prozac can be passed on to unborn babies during pregnancy or through breast milk when a baby is nursing. If youre pregnant or nursing, consult with your doctor about the possible risks of taking Prozac.Alcohol: You should avoid alcohol while taking Prozac, as it may increase the medications toxicity or decrease its effectiveness.Lightheadedness, dizziness, and drowsiness: Prozac can make you feel lightheaded, dizzy, and tired. Its important to be cautious while driving or performing any other dut ies that require your full alertness and concentration.Older adults: If youre 65 or older, you may be at higher risk for some side effects of Prozac, so it may not be a good option for you when there are other medications available that are less risky and can accomplish the same goal.Drug interactions:  You should be cautious when taking Prozac with other medications, as drug interactions can lead to serious issues. Keep your doctor up-to-date on your current medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, as well as nutritional supplements or herbs you take. St. Johns Wort Drug Interactions With Antidepressants A Word From Verywell The information provided here is simply an overview regarding the use of Prozac for panic disorder. This information does not cover all potential variables, including possible side effects, precautions, and contraindications. Always talk to your medical provider about any questions and concerns you may have about your prescription.