Prozac for Anxiety Disorders

Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsWhat Is Prozac?How Prozac WorksProzac for AnxietySide EffectsPrecautionsAlternativesFrequently Asked Questions

Table of ContentsView All

View All

Table of Contents

What Is Prozac?

How Prozac Works

Prozac for Anxiety

Side Effects

Precautions

Alternatives

Frequently Asked Questions

Close

Prozac (fluoxetine) is an antidepressant that was first introduced in the United States to treat depression in the 1980s. It is part of a class of medications known asselective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

This article discusses how Prozac works and what you should know before taking it. It also covers potential side effects, interactions, withdrawal symptoms, and other medications you might consider.

Research also highlights how medications such as Prozac may help in combination with psychotherapy. In a 2008 study in mice published inScience, Prozac helped the brain to enter a more immature and plastic state, possibly making it easier for therapy to have an effect.

Studies like this have provided insight into why combining medication such as Prozac with talk therapy can be effective for anxiety.

What It Feels Like to Take ProzacIf you experience a positive response to Prozac, you might notice a decrease in your anxiety symptoms and feel more like yourself again. You may:Feel more relaxed and less anxiousSee improved sleep and appetiteHave a greater interest in lifeHave more energyNotice improved focusRemember that it may take time for these improvements to become noticeable—even up to 12 weeks in some cases. You may also experience side effects at first, so it may be hard to notice the improvements until the side effects lessen.

What It Feels Like to Take Prozac

If you experience a positive response to Prozac, you might notice a decrease in your anxiety symptoms and feel more like yourself again. You may:Feel more relaxed and less anxiousSee improved sleep and appetiteHave a greater interest in lifeHave more energyNotice improved focusRemember that it may take time for these improvements to become noticeable—even up to 12 weeks in some cases. You may also experience side effects at first, so it may be hard to notice the improvements until the side effects lessen.

If you experience a positive response to Prozac, you might notice a decrease in your anxiety symptoms and feel more like yourself again. You may:

Remember that it may take time for these improvements to become noticeable—even up to 12 weeks in some cases. You may also experience side effects at first, so it may be hard to notice the improvements until the side effects lessen.

Using Prozac for Anxiety

Healthcare providers prescribe Prozac mainly for major depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and panic disorder (all of which are FDA-approved uses). However, they often use it off-label (a practice that’s legal and common) to treat other anxiety disorders.In fact, fluoxetine and other SSRIs are considered safe, effective first-line treatments for anxiety disorders,in part because their side effects tend to be more manageable than those of other types of treatment. Additionally, the risk of misuse and addiction is lower for Prozac than for other types of anxiety medications such as benzodiazepines.

However, you must follow a number of steps to get a prescription. Generally, a healthcare provider mustdiagnose you with a mental health disorderbefore prescribing Prozac or any other prescription treatment. It’s recommended that all adults younger than 65 should be regularly screened for anxiety.So, it’s important that you ask your doctor about getting tested for anxiety at your next visit.

Although a family doctor is qualified to write a prescription, you may benefit from seeing a mental health professional with experience in mental health disorders who can also prescribe medication, such as apsychiatrist.

Dosage and Administration

Prozac is usually prescribed at a low dose to start, and then gradually increased to 20 mg per day. The maximum dose is 80 mg a day. It can be taken as a liquid or capsule and should be used as prescribed. It can take several weeks for effects to show, so it is important not to stop taking Prozac abruptly even if you think it is not working.

Why Are My Antidepressants Not Working?

Side Effects of Prozac

Some side effects of Prozac are more likely than others. Some people notice that side effects lessen over time, or become less bothersome.

Common side effects include:

Rare side effects include:

If you experience any of these severe side effects while taking Prozac, contact a healthcare provider right away.

Precautions Before Taking Prozac

Despite this warning, Prozac continues to be prescribed and can be used safely (or discontinued if adverse effects develop) under the guidance of a physician. If you have concerns about the safety of taking Prozac, discuss them with a healthcare provider.

Medication and Drug Interactions

Prozac should not be combined withmonoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)or taken within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI. You should also allow at least five weeks after stopping Prozac before starting an MAOI.

The result of medication interactions can be serious and potentially fatal, so discuss all medications you are taking with a healthcare provider to determine whether potential interactions exist.

Does Prozac Cause Weight Gain?

Prozac should not be combined withalcohol, certain over-the-counter (e.g., aspirin, due to the risk of bleeding) and prescription medications, and nutritional supplements or herbs (e.g.,St. John’s wort). Be sure to tell your prescribing physician about everything that you are taking.

RecapTaking Prozac with other medications or supplements can lead to drug interactions. Always tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking before you begin taking Prozac for anxiety.

Recap

Taking Prozac with other medications or supplements can lead to drug interactions. Always tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking before you begin taking Prozac for anxiety.

Who Should Not Take Prozac

Prozac can be passed to babies during pregnancy and through breast milk. Consult with a doctor if you are pregnant or nursing before taking Prozac, to determine whether the benefits outweigh the risks.

There are also some potential risks for people aged 65 or older that should be discussed with a doctor. The safety and effectiveness of Prozac in children younger than 18 years of age has also not been established.

Prozac’s Potential Side Effects in Children

Warnings

Can You Overdose on Prozac? Symptoms and What to Do Next

Prozac also comes with a black box warning that it may increase the risk of suicide in people younger than 25 years old. In these individuals, the drug may lead to suicidal thoughts or worsening of these types of thoughts. If you belong to this group, your prescribing doctor should monitor you, particularly in the early stages, for these serious issues.

If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.

If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor. If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.

For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.

Withdrawal

If you stop taking Prozac suddenly, you may noticewithdrawal symptoms, including:

For this reason, never stop Prozac (or other medications) without consulting a doctor. Prozac should always be tapered off to avoid withdrawal effects.

Tips for Antidepressant Withdrawal Relief

Alternatives to Prozac

If Prozac is not well tolerated, other SSRIs that are sometimes prescribed for anxiety include:

Effexor XR (venlafaxine) is another antidepressant called aserotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI)that also may be effective in treating anxiety.

Benzodiazepinesare another class of medication often used for anxiety, but they are generally a short-term solution because of a risk of dependence. Typical medications in this category include:

Common Antidepressant Medications

Summary

Prozac is an SSRI antidepressant that is sometimes used in the treatment of anxiety. It is often most effective when combined with psychotherapy. Discuss your options with a healthcare provider to determine if taking Prozac is the best approach to treat your symptoms. Potential side effects can occur and the medication may increase the risk of suicide in people age 25 and younger.

A Word From Verywell

If you’ve been prescribed Prozac for anxiety, you may feel worried about side effects and whether the medication will be helpful. Share your concerns with your prescribing doctor and stay in contact about how you are doing once you begin the medication. Communication is key to ensuring that this medication is used in an appropriate way for maximum effectiveness.

Frequently Asked QuestionsAs Prozac begins to work, you may notice increases in your energy levels. In some cases, it may cause symptoms of mania in some people taking this medication. Symptoms of mania include high energy levels, racing thoughts, trouble sleeping, and irritability. You should talk to your doctor if you notice such symptoms while taking Prozac.As with other antidepressant medications, it may take time before you begin to notice improvements in your anxiety symptoms. You might notice decreased anxiety symptoms after a few weeks of taking your medication, but it will take several weeks to experience the full effects.In many cases, it is recommended to continue taking an antidepressant for at least six months to a year after symptoms disappear. If you stop taking your medication too soon, it may lead to a relapse of symptoms.You should never stop taking your medication without talking to your doctor first. They will likely recommend gradually tapering your dose over a period of several weeks in order to reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms.

As Prozac begins to work, you may notice increases in your energy levels. In some cases, it may cause symptoms of mania in some people taking this medication. Symptoms of mania include high energy levels, racing thoughts, trouble sleeping, and irritability. You should talk to your doctor if you notice such symptoms while taking Prozac.

As with other antidepressant medications, it may take time before you begin to notice improvements in your anxiety symptoms. You might notice decreased anxiety symptoms after a few weeks of taking your medication, but it will take several weeks to experience the full effects.

In many cases, it is recommended to continue taking an antidepressant for at least six months to a year after symptoms disappear. If you stop taking your medication too soon, it may lead to a relapse of symptoms.You should never stop taking your medication without talking to your doctor first. They will likely recommend gradually tapering your dose over a period of several weeks in order to reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms.

In many cases, it is recommended to continue taking an antidepressant for at least six months to a year after symptoms disappear. If you stop taking your medication too soon, it may lead to a relapse of symptoms.

You should never stop taking your medication without talking to your doctor first. They will likely recommend gradually tapering your dose over a period of several weeks in order to reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms.

9 SourcesVerywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Maya Vetencourt JF, Sale A, Viegi A, et al.The antidepressant fluoxetine restores plasticity in the adult visual cortex.Science. 2008;320(5874):385-8. doi:10.1126/science.1150516U.S. National Library of Medicine, Toxnet.Fluoxetine hydrochloride.Melaragno AJ.Pharmacotherapy for anxiety disorders: from first-line options to treatment resistance.FOC. 2021;19(2):145-160. doi:10.1176/appi.focus.20200048Melaragno A, Spera V, Bui E. Psychopharmacology of anxiety disorders. In: Bui E, Charney ME, Baker AW, eds.Clinical Handbook of Anxiety Disorders: From Theory to Practice. Springer International Publishing; 2020:251-267.US Preventive Services Task Force.Screening for Depression and Suicide Risk in Adults: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement.JAMA.2023;329(23):2057–2067. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.9297Eli Lilly.Prozac medication guide.National Alliance on Mental Illness.Fluoxetine (Prozac).Cleveland Clinic.Fluoxetine oral solution.U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Prozac (fluoxetine hydrochloride): Highlights of prescribing information.

9 Sources

Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.Maya Vetencourt JF, Sale A, Viegi A, et al.The antidepressant fluoxetine restores plasticity in the adult visual cortex.Science. 2008;320(5874):385-8. doi:10.1126/science.1150516U.S. National Library of Medicine, Toxnet.Fluoxetine hydrochloride.Melaragno AJ.Pharmacotherapy for anxiety disorders: from first-line options to treatment resistance.FOC. 2021;19(2):145-160. doi:10.1176/appi.focus.20200048Melaragno A, Spera V, Bui E. Psychopharmacology of anxiety disorders. In: Bui E, Charney ME, Baker AW, eds.Clinical Handbook of Anxiety Disorders: From Theory to Practice. Springer International Publishing; 2020:251-267.US Preventive Services Task Force.Screening for Depression and Suicide Risk in Adults: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement.JAMA.2023;329(23):2057–2067. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.9297Eli Lilly.Prozac medication guide.National Alliance on Mental Illness.Fluoxetine (Prozac).Cleveland Clinic.Fluoxetine oral solution.U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Prozac (fluoxetine hydrochloride): Highlights of prescribing information.

Verywell Mind uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.

Maya Vetencourt JF, Sale A, Viegi A, et al.The antidepressant fluoxetine restores plasticity in the adult visual cortex.Science. 2008;320(5874):385-8. doi:10.1126/science.1150516U.S. National Library of Medicine, Toxnet.Fluoxetine hydrochloride.Melaragno AJ.Pharmacotherapy for anxiety disorders: from first-line options to treatment resistance.FOC. 2021;19(2):145-160. doi:10.1176/appi.focus.20200048Melaragno A, Spera V, Bui E. Psychopharmacology of anxiety disorders. In: Bui E, Charney ME, Baker AW, eds.Clinical Handbook of Anxiety Disorders: From Theory to Practice. Springer International Publishing; 2020:251-267.US Preventive Services Task Force.Screening for Depression and Suicide Risk in Adults: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement.JAMA.2023;329(23):2057–2067. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.9297Eli Lilly.Prozac medication guide.National Alliance on Mental Illness.Fluoxetine (Prozac).Cleveland Clinic.Fluoxetine oral solution.U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Prozac (fluoxetine hydrochloride): Highlights of prescribing information.

Maya Vetencourt JF, Sale A, Viegi A, et al.The antidepressant fluoxetine restores plasticity in the adult visual cortex.Science. 2008;320(5874):385-8. doi:10.1126/science.1150516

U.S. National Library of Medicine, Toxnet.Fluoxetine hydrochloride.

Melaragno AJ.Pharmacotherapy for anxiety disorders: from first-line options to treatment resistance.FOC. 2021;19(2):145-160. doi:10.1176/appi.focus.20200048

Melaragno A, Spera V, Bui E. Psychopharmacology of anxiety disorders. In: Bui E, Charney ME, Baker AW, eds.Clinical Handbook of Anxiety Disorders: From Theory to Practice. Springer International Publishing; 2020:251-267.

US Preventive Services Task Force.Screening for Depression and Suicide Risk in Adults: US Preventive Services Task Force Recommendation Statement.JAMA.2023;329(23):2057–2067. doi:10.1001/jama.2023.9297

Eli Lilly.Prozac medication guide.

National Alliance on Mental Illness.Fluoxetine (Prozac).

Cleveland Clinic.Fluoxetine oral solution.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Prozac (fluoxetine hydrochloride): Highlights of prescribing information.

Meet Our Review Board

Share Feedback

Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!What is your feedback?HelpfulReport an ErrorOtherSubmit

Was this page helpful?

Thanks for your feedback!

What is your feedback?HelpfulReport an ErrorOtherSubmit

What is your feedback?