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Many people who enter the world of bodybuilding choose this field because it is practically designed for introverts. You come to the gym alone. You put in your time alone. You cook your meals alone. Much of what you do in bodybuilding is an individual effort. In other sports, you have the camaraderie that comes with practicing together every day. In bodybuilding, aside from a training partner or the people you see every day, you’re on your own. For this reason, many people with social anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsion disorder, or just plain shyness, are drawn to the field of bodybuilding.

As we age, we often find the world or medicine is able to help our bodies adjust to the stressors of age and society. One commonly prescribed medication to deal with the maladies mentioned above is Prozac, or fluoxetine. Prozac is a serotonin uptake regulator, which controls the body’s level of serotonin. Many bodybuilders are prescribed this medication when their OCD, depression, or anxiety becomes too great. But how does it affect bodybuilders?

Physically

Bodybuilders who take Prozac may notice an immediate weight gain which continues for the first 2-3 months of use. They can gain up to 25 pounds. This is a result of their liver cycles being tied up with the Prozac and the body being unable to process fat as efficiently as before.

Mentally

You will certainly feel happier and more relaxed. If anxiety was keeping you from growing, that will end. However, if it was the nervous energy that motivated you to train, be prepared to suffer a lack of motivation. You’ll have to work harder to get off the couch and go to the gym, but it will be worth it. The serotonin release that your brain normally delivers when lifting will be multiplied, since the Prozac delivers serotonin as well. You will feel great when you train!

Warnings

When taking Prozac, the body is not able to process compounds as efficiently as before. You will find that 1-2 drinks makes you feel quite intoxicated, even though you can normally handle much more with no problem. You will also respond quicker to medicine and yes, even anabolic steroids. Desired, as well as undesired side effects will be more intense when taking Prozac.

Prozac should only be taken under the direction of a doctor. Check out its side effects and see how they apply to your bodybuilding routine. It will improve many parts of your life, and shouldn’t affect bodybuilding progress too much, as long as you are prepared for it.