Patient/caregiver was educated on precautions to be exercised while taking Prozac as follows:
- Prozac intake has the potential to increase the likelihood of seizures. Prozac must be very cautiously administered in individuals with seizure history, compliance with recommended anti-seizure therapy observed, and response closely monitored. Prozac can also induce a life-threatening reaction called neuroleptic malignant syndrome. Individuals taking Prozac can present with high fever, episodes of confusion, muscle rigidity, elevated blood pressure, and rapid heart rate. Severe cases can present with muscle breakdown, elevated potassium levels in the blood due to muscle destruction, life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias due to the elevated blood potassium, and seizures. Any of these findings, while taking Prozac, should be immediately reported to the physician, for necessary changes to be considered. Also, discuss with your physician regarding your history of seizures, if any, if you are newly started on Prozac. If you are newly diagnosed with seizure complaint, discuss with your physician regarding your safety with continuing on Prozac, if you have been using Prozac for long.
- Do not take Prozac with alcohol or opioid pain medications, such as, hydrocodone and codeine, as these products can add to the dizziness and confusion caused by Prozac, and contribute to falls and accidents. A number of OTC cough medications and antihistamines, muscle relaxant medications, and antianxiety medications, can potentiate the confusion caused by Prozac and so, must be avoided taking along with Prozac.
