Does Fluoxetine cause headaches and increased sweating?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have been on Fluoxetine antidepressant drug for a few years. I just started to notice few change, but I do not know what to do. I am getting more headaches than normal, restless legs at night and hot sweat most of the day and night. Are my problems related to the drug? Can you prescribe any medicine for this?

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Yes, the problems you are facing are most likely related to long-term side effects of the drug Fluoxetine. Mild headaches and sweating are known side effects intrinsic to Fluoxetine. Usually this drug is tolerated by most patients only at the lowest effective dose. Also studies have shown that Fluoxetine exaggerates pre-existing restless legs syndrome (RLS) in many patients. From the given information, it seems that the side effects of Fluoxetine are beyond the tolerable levels for you. I would suggest you to discuss this with your treating physician (psychiatrist) for considering alternate antidepressant drug like Escitalopram or Paroxetine, which is relatively safe and more effective than Fluoxetine. At least a dose reduction has to be instituted to get relief from your health issue. I need to have your detailed medical history, physical examination (vital parameters) and few basic blood tests done before suggesting any medicine, particularly that acts on the nervous system. Thankyou.