I've been on and off fluoxetine for about 11 years and worry about the long term effects Should I try and wean myself off?
Should you stay on fluoxetine for a long time?
Question posted by Susie susu on 7 Jan 2021
Last updated on 8 January 2021 by WildcatVet
The information on this page reflects personal experiences shared by our community members. It is not reviewed for medical accuracy and should not replace professional medical advice.
Answers
There haven't been too many studies of the potential effects of long term use but the National Health Service and the National Alliance for Mental Illness both feel that there are few, if any, long term effects for most people.
Some suspects would be weight gain, diabetes, tardive dyskinesia, and sexual dysfunction. If you've been on fluoxetine for 11 years these might have shown up sooner if they were going to happen.
If you want to try stopping the medication you should do it under a doctor's supervision and don't attempt it yourself. Also, for many people there's a good chance of a rebound of the original symptoms it was prescribed for.
I'd advise talking with your doctor before making any decisions.
Related topics
Further information
- Fluoxetine uses and safety info
- Fluoxetine prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Fluoxetine (detailed)
Similar questions
Search for questions
Still looking for answers? Try searching for what you seek or ask your own question.