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I've been taking Prozac for over 10 years. Is it safe to stop?

By Anonymous February 21, 2011 - 7:36pm
 
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I've been taking Prozac for over 10 years to treat PTSD and the resulting panic disorder, general anxiety, etc. I've spent most of that time feeling numb, uninterested in sex and often mildly depressed. I do not want to live the rest of my life taking Prozac or any other brain-altering drugs. With gradual tapering off, is it possible for me to stop taking Prozac after all these years or is my brain permanently altered to the point where I need to keep taking it? I'd really appreciate some good, accurate information. Thanks.

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Hi Anonymous,
Thank you for your question and for finding EmpowHER. I understand the desire to not feel "numb". I have been on Prozac (post partum depression). I think the key thing is if you think you don't need it anymore. Do you think you have dealt with your panic disorder and anxiety? Do you have a plan in place in case your symptoms come back? It is recommended to taper off from this medication, especially given how long you've been on it. This is from the product information: "If you have been taking this medicine for several weeks, talk with healthcare provider before stopping. You may want to gradually withdraw this medicine."
Any other information you are concerned about should be asked of your doctor. We are not medical professionals, and can only point you in the right direction to get the answers you are looking for.
Hope this is helpful. Let us know how you are doing with this.

February 22, 2011 - 7:49am
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