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Can Prozac And Strattera Be Taken Together?

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Posted on Thu, 4 Jan 2024
Question: hi I am on 40 mg of Strattera to help with concentration etc.
I was on Cymbalta to help with depression and it was not working so I am off completely, but find myself very quick to anger, agitated, basically nasty. ( not my nature)
I asked my Primary to prescribe Prozac for me as I had taken that years ago and it helped, I think the only reason I went off was I wanted to see if I could handle my stress without medication. Over the years I have been on numerous anti-depressants which caused side effects I did not want to deal with.
My question is can I just stop the Strattera? My primary (all thru email) said I assume you know you can't take Prozac with Strattera. I did not. I will not start the Prozac until I am off the Strattera but I need to know how to go off them safely.
By the way I am currently trying to get a appointment with a doctor who specializes in Med management.
Just found a group that accepts my insurance. I am TYPE 1 diabetic and use the pump to manage it.

thank you
XXXX
doctor
Answered by Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe (3 hours later)
Brief Answer:
Consultation

Detailed Answer:
Hello, and thanks for your question.

It is true that combining Prozac with Strattera puts you at risk of serotonin syndrome, so it is indeed wise to stop Strattera prior to starting Prozac. In fact, Strattera may be contributing to your irritability, so I think this switch is a good one. Strattera is unique in that it can be stopped abruptly without significant risk of side effects or withdrawal. There is no need to taper it. So, you can safely stop it right now.

Please remember to rate and close this answer when you are finished and satisfied.

In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private link below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T
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Answered by
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Dr. Alexander H. Sheppe

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2014

Answered : 2236 Questions

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Can Prozac And Strattera Be Taken Together?

Brief Answer: Consultation Detailed Answer: Hello, and thanks for your question. It is true that combining Prozac with Strattera puts you at risk of serotonin syndrome, so it is indeed wise to stop Strattera prior to starting Prozac. In fact, Strattera may be contributing to your irritability, so I think this switch is a good one. Strattera is unique in that it can be stopped abruptly without significant risk of side effects or withdrawal. There is no need to taper it. So, you can safely stop it right now. Please remember to rate and close this answer when you are finished and satisfied. In the future, for continuity of care, I encourage you to contact me directly at my private link below. After you ask a direct question, it would be my pleasure to be your dedicated personal physician on this website. My name is Dr. Sheppe, and I am an XXXXXXX doctor working in New York City at NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital, ranked #1 for Psychiatry in the United States (tinyurl.com/psyrank). For a personalized comprehensive evaluation, treatment recommendations, and individual therapy, ask me at HealthCareMagic at this private link: tinyurl.com/DrSheppeAnswers