Prolexa Side Effects

Prolexa is a commonly prescribed antidepressant belonging to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class. Like most medications, Prolexa can cause various side effects, and while not everyone experiences them, here are some common and less common side effects associated with Prolexa:

Common Side Effects

• Nausea: Feeling queasy or experiencing an upset stomach is a frequent initial side effect that may diminish over time.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches might occur during the initial stages of taking Prolexa.
• Drowsiness or Fatigue: Feeling tired, sleepy, or having reduced energy levels is common, especially when starting the medication or after dosage adjustments.
• Insomnia or Changes in Sleep Patterns: Some individuals might experience difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, while others might feel more sleepy than usual.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Feeling dizzy or unsteady, especially when standing up quickly, can occur.
• Dry Mouth: Reduced saliva production can cause a dry sensation in the mouth.
• Increased Sweating: Some people might experience increased perspiration while taking Prolexa.
• Sexual Side Effects: This may include changes in libido, delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, or difficulties achieving orgasm.
• Weight Changes: Some individuals might experience weight gain or weight loss while taking Prolexa.
• Gastrointestinal Disturbances: This can include diarrhea or constipation, indigestion, or abdominal pain.

Less Common Side Effects

• Suicidal Thoughts or Behavior: Especially in younger individuals or during the initial stages of treatment, some may experience an increase in suicidal thoughts. This requires immediate medical attention.
• Serotonin Syndrome: Although rare, combining Prolexa with other medications that increase serotonin levels can lead to a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by agitation, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, high blood pressure, fever, and more.
• Allergic Reactions: Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. Seek immediate medical attention for these symptoms.
• Abnormal Bleeding: SSRIs, including Prolexa, may increase the risk of bleeding, especially if taken with other medications that also affect clotting.
• Manic Episodes: Some individuals, particularly those with bipolar disorder, might experience manic episodes while taking Prolexa.

Prolexa is one of the leading brands of Escitalopram, manufactured and marketed by Genetic Pharmaceuticals. Pakistan.

Presently, Prolexa is available in Tablet Form with the following Strengths.

Prolexa Tablet : 10mg and 20mg Strengths.

1. MAO Inhibitors (MAOIs): Combining Prolexa with MAOIs can lead to a potentially life-threatening condition called serotonin syndrome. MAOIs include medications like phenelzine, tranylcypromine, selegiline, and certain others used in the treatment of depression or Parkinson’s disease. The combination should be avoided due to the risk of severe reactions.
2. Other SSRIs, SNRIs, and Serotonergic Drugs: Taking multiple medications that increase serotonin levels, such as other SSRIs (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline), SNRIs (e.g., venlafaxine, duloxetine), or some migraine medications (e.g., triptans), can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with Prolexa.
3. Blood Thinners and Antiplatelet Drugs: Prolexa might increase the risk of bleeding when taken with blood-thinning medications like warfarin, aspirin, or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen. This combination might require closer monitoring by a healthcare provider.
4. Drugs Metabolized by CYP2C19 and CYP3A4: Prolexa is metabolized in the liver primarily by the enzymes CYP2C19 and CYP3A4. Medications that inhibit or induce these enzymes can affect the levels of Prolexa in the body:
5. Inhibitors of CYP2C19 or CYP3A4: Drugs like fluconazole, omeprazole, fluoxetine, and certain antibiotics may increase the levels of Prolexa, potentially leading to an increased risk of side effects.
6. Inducers of CYP2C19 or CYP3A4: Medications like rifampin, carbamazepine, and phenytoin may decrease Prolexa levels, potentially reducing its effectiveness.
7. St. John’s Wort: The herbal supplement St. John’s Wort, often used for depression, can increase serotonin levels. Combining it with Prolexa can lead to an increased risk of serotonin syndrome and should generally be avoided.
8. Lithium: Using Prolexa with lithium, a medication used to treat bipolar disorder, can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome and should be used cautiously and monitored closely.