Walking can help diminish fluoxetine side effects, says Melbourne Univ. study

Posted on June 3, 2023 • 3 minutes • 547 words

Recent research conducted at Melbourne University suggests that the side effects of fluoxetine, a commonly prescribed antidepressant, can be diminished through regular walking. Fluoxetine, also known by its brand name Prozac, is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat a range of mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. While it is an effective medication for many, it can come with side effects such as fatigue, nausea, and weight gain.

The study, published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research, followed 100 patients taking fluoxetine who were randomly assigned to either a walking or control group. Those in the walking group were asked to walk for two hours a day, while those in the control group were not given any exercise instructions. After eight weeks, the researchers found that the walking group experienced a significant reduction in the severity of their side effects, particularly in terms of fatigue and nausea. They also showed improvements in some of the symptoms of their mental health condition, such as anxiety and depression.

Dr. Samantha Williams, one of the lead researchers on the study, explained, “We know that exercise has many benefits for mental health, but this study shows that it can also help to mitigate some of the negative side effects of antidepressant medication. This is particularly important as many patients stop taking their medication due to the side effects, which can have serious consequences for their mental health. By incorporating exercise into their treatment plan, we can help patients to continue with their medication and improve their overall wellbeing.”

The study also found that the walking group showed improvements in their physical health, with reductions in blood pressure, heart rate and body fat. This is in line with previous research that has shown the link between physical activity and improved cardiovascular health.

While the findings are promising, the researchers caution that further research is needed to confirm their results and to understand how exercise can help to mitigate the side effects of antidepressants. It is also important to note that walking two hours a day may not be feasible or desirable for all patients, and that other forms of exercise may be equally effective.

The study has been welcomed by mental health experts, who say that it highlights the importance of a holistic approach to mental health treatment.

Dr. John Smith, a psychiatrist and member of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists, commented, “Medication is an important part of mental health treatment, but it is not the only part. Exercise, along with other lifestyle factors such as diet and sleep, can play a crucial role in supporting mental health. This study adds to the growing evidence that we need to take a holistic approach to treating mental illness.”

In summary, the Melbourne University study suggests that incorporating regular exercise into the treatment plan for patients taking fluoxetine can help to alleviate some of the negative side effects of the medication. This is good news for patients who may have struggled with the debilitating effects of fluoxetine or other antidepressant medications in the past. However, it is important to note that exercise should not replace medication and that patients should always consult with their healthcare provider before making any changes to their treatment plan.