Does fluoxetine taste bad? (+5 tips)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this brief article, we will discuss whether fluoxetine tastes bad or not. We will also explore research studies on this topic. Factors affecting the taste perception of fluoxetine and tips to overcome this issue will be discussed in this article.
Does fluoxetine taste bad?
Yes, fluoxetine can taste bitter, especially if it’s chewed. Fluoxetine is typically formulated as an oral capsule or tablet. Capsules often have a mild taste due to the protective outer coating. However, individual perceptions of taste can vary widely.
In addition, fluoxetine’s bitter taste is mainly because of the active ingredient, fluoxetine hydrochloride. Fluoxetine hydrochloride is known to be a bitter-tasting compound.
The taste of fluoxetine can vary depending on the formulation, but it is generally described as being unpleasant. (1)
What does the research suggest?
A research study found that the strong and unpleasant bitter taste of fluoxetine contributed to therapy discontinuation. To address this issue, fluoxetine was formulated into orodispersible tablets. These tablets are known for their rapid release and acceptable taste. (2)
In addition, fluoxetine can cause metallic taste. However, it is a rare side effect and only 2-3% of individuals experience it. (3)
What factors affect fluoxetine’s taste perception?
Several factors can influence the taste perception of fluoxetine and individual experiences can vary. Here are some key factors that affect how someone perceives the taste of fluoxetine:
- Formulation: Fluoxetine comes in tablets, capsules, orodispersible tablets and liquid forms. Different formulations of fluoxetine may have different textures, coatings or flavorings that influence the overall taste perception.
- Individual taste sensitivity: What one individual finds tolerable, another might perceive differently. This is because each person’s taste buds are unique due to genetic factor differences.
- Age: Taste preferences can change with age. Pediatric or elderly patients may have different reactions to the taste of medications. (3,4)
- Administration with food: Taking fluoxetine with or without food can influence taste perception. Some individuals prefer taking medications with food to avoid any unpleasant aftertaste.
- Medication’s size and shape: The size and shape of the pill can impact how it feels in the mouth and influence the taste perception. It’s easier for some individuals to swallow smaller or differently-shaped pills.
- Psychological factors: Individuals with anxiety about taking medication may be more sensitive to taste. Additionally, expectations and beliefs about the taste of fluoxetine can influence the actual taste experience.
Does the taste of fluoxetine impact treatment adherence?
Patient adherence to the medication is a critical factor in the effectiveness of antidepressant therapy. The unpleasant taste of fluoxetine has a potential impact on treatment adherence. While the taste perception can vary among individuals, the general bitter and unfavorable taste of fluoxetine may influence the patient’s preferences.
Clinical reports indicate a rising number of complaints regarding taste and smell disturbances associated with drugs. 50% of the top 100 drugs in the United States in 2017 have the potential to induce complaints about taste and smell.
These disturbances in taste and smell can markedly reduce medication adherence, utilization and overall quality of life. (3)
It becomes essential for healthcare providers to address taste-related concerns and proactively explore alternative formulations or strategies to enhance the overall treatment experience.
What to do to avoid the bad taste of fluoxetine?
Several tips can help you minimize or avoid the potentially unpleasant taste of fluoxetine. Here are some tips you can consider:
- Avoid chewing the pill and take it with water: Swallowing the medication with a full glass of water can help reduce the chance of tasting it.
- Take the medication with food: Taking fluoxetine with a meal can help mask the taste. However, you should check with your healthcare provider to ensure alignment with the medication’s instructions.
- Change the formulation: Ask your healthcare provider about other formulation options. For example, orodispersible tablets or liquid forms may have more acceptable tastes.
- Take the medication with a flavored drink: Taking the medication with a flavored drink immediately may help mask the unpleasant taste. It’s important to note that you should not take grapefruit juice as it can interact with fluoxetine.(5)
- Use a straw: If you are taking a liquid form of fluoxetine, use a straw that can help the liquid bypass the taste buds.
- Masking agents: Sucking on a sweet or having a piece of fruit after taking the medication can help mask any aftertaste.
In summary, fluoxetine tastes bad because of its active ingredient, fluoxetine hydrochloride, which is known to be a bitter tasting compound. Moreover, several factors can affect the taste perception of fluoxetine.
There are several effective strategies that help minimize the unpleasant taste of fluoxetine. I highly recommend counseling with your healthcare provider to offer the best strategy for you.
Was this helpful?
References
1.-
Rédai, E.-M.; Antonoaea, P.; Todoran, N.; Vlad, R.A.; Bîrsan, M.; Tătaru, A.; Ciurba, A. Development and Evaluation of Fluoxetine Fast Dissolving Films: An Alternative for Noncompliance in Pediatric Patients. Processes 2021, 9, 778. https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9717/9/5/778
2.-
Marzouk MA, Osman DA, Mohamed OS. In vitro and in vivo evaluation of taste-masked orodispersible tablets of fluoxetine hydrochloride for the treatment of depression. Drug Dev Ind Pharm. 2021 Apr;47(4):645-653.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33826435/#:~:text=Abstract,failure%20to%20complete%20the%20therapy.
3.-
Schiffman SS. Influence of medications on taste and smell. World J Otorhinolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2018 Mar 26;4(1):84-91.
4.-
Alia S, Aquilanti L, Pugnaloni S, Di Paolo A, Rappelli G, Vignini A. The Influence of Age and Oral Health on Taste Perception in Older Adults: A Case-Control Study. Nutrients. 2021 Nov 21;13(11):4166.
5.-
Bailey DG, Dresser G, Arnold JM. Grapefruit-medication interactions: forbidden fruit or avoidable consequences? CMAJ. 2013 Mar 5;185(4):309-16. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3589309/
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