Any tips for starting medication?

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I just started on fluoxetine two days ago and so far haven't experienced anything except for some indigestion. Ik there can be other side effects and things can get worse before I feel better but by which point would that usually happen? I couldn't find anything really. Basically, will it take more days usually to see even negative emotional change or is this an indication I won't really have many? Also, do you have any tips to deal with any of them?

Hi Iv - when I went on fluoxetine (currently still am and hope to be on it forevermore), I had some pretty unsettling side effects initially and even then for some months after. The first thing I noticed, was that it made me emotional, tearing up easily. I also became incredibly wiped out. Even now, 2 years on, I feel “drugged up” when I’m walking in a forest or just going through life. I shouldn’t have been driving for the first year I was on it, as I lost all fear and inhibition and I was very aware of this change, but continued to drive. I was never told not to drive. Should have been though. It changed who I am, that’s for sure. I needed that change though. It’s liberating to no longer feel pain and anxiety from past trauma.

Thereafter and up to now, it’s been pretty amazing. I have clarity of mind beyond anything I’ve ever experienced and I feel “high” on life. I plan adventures, travel, and now live life to the full. This is just my own personal experience of being on prozac(fluoxetine) though and others don’t have a good experience on it. There were ‘other’ side effects too, of a more personal nature that I won’t go into ... the good far outweighs the bad, in my case. There are no longer any bad affects, now I’ve reached the 2 year mark. It basically enhances my life in ALL ways.

I feel almost scared for you, Iv going on it, as the initial effects were such a rollercoaster for me. Hope you do well on it and can get beyond any of the negative effects and reach the same level of “wow factor” it’s given to me.

I did read your earlier post on Friday, but was unable to reply at the time. I’m just glad that your issues have been properly picked up on. There’s nothing more important than your health and well being. It might be a bit of an initial shock that you have this or you have that going on, but you are still “You” and I’m relieved that you’re being supported and monitored. You deserve to feel better, happier, and to live the best life you possibly can. X

Fluoxetine is also called PROZAC.

Common side effects include indigestion, trouble sleeping, sexual dysfunction, loss of appetite, dry mouth, rash, and abnormal dreams and may subside over time.  Serious side effects include serotonin syndrome, mania, seizures, an increased risk of suicidal behavior in people under 25 years old, and an increased risk of bleeding.  If stopped suddenly, a withdrawal syndrome may occur with anxiety, dizziness, and changes in sensation.