What is a common side effect of Prozac?

What is a common side effect of Prozac?

• A. Xerostomia
• B. Impaired wound healing
• C. Gingival enlargement
• D. Delayed wound healing

Answer: (A)

Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a well-known side effect associated with Prozac, which is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed for depression and anxiety disorders. Antidepressants, including SSRIs, can affect the salivary glands, leading to a reduction in saliva production. This can result in a feeling of dry mouth, which is not only uncomfortable but can also increase the risk of dental caries and oral infections due to decreased saliva's role in protecting the oral cavity. Other options, while they may pertain to different medications or conditions, are not typical side effects of Prozac. Impaired wound healing and delayed wound healing are less directly related to Prozac and could stem from various factors such as overall health or concurrent medications. Gingival enlargement is also not a recognized side effect of Prozac and is more commonly associated with other types of medications, particularly certain anticonvulsants. The impact on salivary production remains a characteristic effect for individuals taking Prozac, making xerostomia the most appropriate answer in this context.

Xerostomia, or dry mouth, is a well-known side effect associated with Prozac, which is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed for depression and anxiety disorders. Antidepressants, including SSRIs, can affect the salivary glands, leading to a reduction in saliva production. This can result in a feeling of dry mouth, which is not only uncomfortable but can also increase the risk of dental caries and oral infections due to decreased saliva's role in protecting the oral cavity.

Other options, while they may pertain to different medications or conditions, are not typical side effects of Prozac. Impaired wound healing and delayed wound healing are less directly related to Prozac and could stem from various factors such as overall health or concurrent medications. Gingival enlargement is also not a recognized side effect of Prozac and is more commonly associated with other types of medications, particularly certain anticonvulsants. The impact on salivary production remains a characteristic effect for individuals taking Prozac, making xerostomia the most appropriate answer in this context.