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[Molly123]

I've been on 20 mg of Prozac for a week now and have been finally hit with some side effects. I thought maybe I'd get away with not having any because I didn't feel any change at all until the beginning of the week. At first I had that really tight jaw feeling and extreme hunger, which went away after about two days. The last few days I've been SO tired. I really really hope that goes away because it's affecting my being able to work (in the late afternoons). This morning about 5 am I woke up and felt really really weird. It's hard to explain the feeling.... sort of hot, but just kind of bad all over for a few minutes. My face feels like I'm blushing ever since, and the palms of my hands are tingling.

I am really anti- medication in general (usually I don't like anything more than advil), so it was a big deal for me to try this. But I'm wondering if I should just give it up. I haven't felt any different mentally, just these bad things, so I'm starting to think it's not worth it.

Edited by Molly123, 17 November 2011 - 12:22 PM.

[PoeticProse]

Hi Molly123,

I'm sorry to hear about the side effects you're experiencing; I know it can be frustrating and overwhelming. Your medication is still in its activation phase, so some of those side effects may subside. I would give it another week or two before drawing any conclusions. It may very well be worthwhile; your doctor has clearly decided that the potential benefits outweigh the possible side effects. Most alternatives to depression are worth the unpleasant activation side effects.

I wish you the best of luck. Remain hopeful, and give your medication a little more time. If the side effects do not subside, speak with your doctor.

[DragonFish]

Good on you Molly123 for realizing you need more answers and taking actions to get them.
There is a break-in phase for all substances that affect the brain. Often it will take about 6 weeks for your body to adjust to the new chemical makeup of your blood, but the time varies from person to person. This is an unfortunate aspect of these medications, and often the desired result you're seeking from this medication likely wont be seen until closer to the end of your body's adjustment period. ..much like you can't enjoy a movie until you get comfortable in your seat, your body needs to get comfortable with the meds.Be very observant about your body right now. re-read the label of side-effects and notice what ones it says to call the doctor about right away.
If you're worried about what's happening you should be able to call your doctor to ask about them at any time, and depending on where you live the pharmacist who prepared the prescription for you should also be able to answer detailed questions about how it's effecting you as well. If all that fails and you think something is really wrong with the way your body is reacting then have no fear about going the hospital to get things verified.

[Molly123]

I think I will call the doctor on Monday. I'm scaring myself about this. I've had a headache for what seems like days now and I really just feel bad in general. I think if I was reassured that I'm okay I'd feel a lot better.