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What are the side effects of Sarafem?

Sarafem (generic name >fluoxetine) is a new drug that treats the symptoms of severe premenstrual syndrome (PMS), also called premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) in adult women 18 years and older. It contains the same active ingredient as the antidepressant drug Prozac.

Sarafem is generally a well-tolerated drug. Its most common side effects are fatigue, upset stomach, nervousness, dizziness, dry mouth, appetite changes, and difficulty concentrating. These side effects are usually mild and often go away after a few weeks of treatment. Some women may also experience reduced sexual desire or sexual satisfaction while taking Sarafem.

There is a risk of increased suicides in children and adolescents taking antidepressants. Be sure to talk to your doctor regarding the benefits verses the risks of taking any of these medicines.

Sources:
Drug Facts and Comparisons. Facts & Comparisons, 2006.
Medline Plus, Medline, 2006.
Micromedex® Healthcare Series. Thomson Micromedex, 2006.
Pearlstein T.B., “Comparison of Fluoxetine, Bupropion, and Placebo in the Treatment of Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder." Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology 4 (1997).
Sarafem product information, Warner Chilcott, 2006.
Wyatt, K.M., "Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors for Premenstrual Syndrome." The Cochrane Library,2 (2000).

This answer prepared 8/13/2001.
This information updated 1/25/2007.