FLUOXETINE - ADVERSE-EFFECTS AND DRUG-DRUG INTERACTIONS

This overview summarizes the major and minor side effects and drug int eractions of fluoxetine. The adverse reactions include the ''serotonin syndrome'', cardiovascular complications, extrapyramidal side effects such as akathisia, dyskinesias, and parkinsonian-like syndromes and a n apparently increased risk of suicidality. Fluoxetine-induced mania a nd hypomania, seizures and sexual disorders are evaluated along with m inor symptoms of allergic reactions, stuttering, hematological changes , psoriasis, and inappropriate secretion of the antidiuretic hormone. The major fluoxetine-drug interactions involve the amino acids L-dopa and L-tryptophan, anorexiants, anticonvulsants, antidepressants, anxio lytics, calcium channel blockers, cyproheptadine, lithium salts, and d rugs of abuse. The underlying mechanism and the paradoxical effects of fluoxetine are addressed.