Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Prozac as follows:
- Prozac can inhibit enzyme systems in the liver that are needed for the metabolism of dietary nutrients and various other medications. Inhibition of these enzymes systems can result in slowing of overall metabolism. Slowed metabolism of food and dietary nutrients with Prozac can result in symptoms of indigestion, such as, nausea and vomiting, abdominal pain, heartburn, and bloating. Slowed metabolism of medications can result in increased blood levels of these medications for longer periods of time, resulting in increased risk for side-effects and consequent toxicity due to these medications. Discuss with your physician regarding your list of medications, both current and any new, and the possibility of slowed metabolism of any of them secondary to Prozac intake, with consequent increased risk for side-effects and toxicity. Report to your physician regarding any worsening symptoms of indigestion, for any appropriate relief measures to be considered.
- Observe compliance with all physician visits and periodical lab draws ordered, while taking Prozac, for an update on improvement/deterioration with symptoms of mood disorder and side-effects developed. This will also allow your physician to make appropriate changes in your plan of care, as needed.
