What is a common effect of SSRIs like Prozac?

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as Prozac are commonly prescribed for depression and anxiety disorders due to their effectiveness in increasing serotonin levels in the brain. One of the notable common effects of SSRIs, particularly in the early stages of treatment, can be insomnia. This occurs as the body adjusts to the medication.

Insomnia is a frequent side effect experienced by many patients as SSRIs can alter sleep architecture and affect the patterns of sleep. This can sometimes lead to difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, contributing to overall insomnia.

While some patients may experience increased energy as a positive effect of improved mood with SSRIs, this is not universally true, as others may face fatigue or lethargy instead. Weight loss can also occur in some individuals, but it is not a primary or common effect associated with SSRIs like Prozac. Similarly, while anxiety may improve, it is also a possible early side effect for some individuals as their bodies adjust to the medication. Focusing on insomnia provides an accurate reflection of a frequently observed response among users of SSRIs.