my son 26 yrs old just got out of rehab 3 days ago. he is on fluoxitine hcl 20 mg. He was diagnosed with bipolar disorder a few months ago. today he had a wicked panic attack. crying, hating his life, hitting his head. it lasted half of the day. he also says that he doesn t like the medicine makes him feel. should he stop taking this medicine?iz
Hello! Welcome on Chat Doctor ! Regarding your concern, you should know that fluoxetine does not seem to be very effective in controlling his symptoms.  For this reason, I would recommend discussing with his psychiatrist on the possibility of making some changes to his actual therapy. In this regard, increasing fluoxetine dose may be necessary, coupled with further add on therapy like valproate or clonazepam, in order to manage his anxiety. Lithium therapy may be needed. You should discuss with his doctor on the above treatment options. Hope you will find this answer helpful! Best wishes,