Fluoxetine

Fluoxetine (Prozac) is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (bothersome thoughts that won’t go away and the need to perform certain actions over and over), some eating disorders, and panic attacks (sudden, unexpected attacks of extreme fear and worry about these attacks). Fluoxetine (Sarafem) is used to relieve the symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder, including mood swings, irritability, bloating, and breast tenderness. Fluoxetine is in a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It works by increasing the amount of serotonin, a natural substance in the brain that helps maintain mental balance. It is a psychotropic drug for oral administration.

Buy Fluoxetine (Brand)
Fluoxetine 10 mg - 30 Caps	$45.00
Fluoxetine 20 mg - 30 Caps	$52.00
Fluoxetine 20 mg - 90 Caps	$56.00
Fluoxetine 40 mg - 30 Caps	$69.00
Buy Fluoxetine (Generic)
Prozac (generic) 20 mg - 30 Caps	$52.00
Prozac (generic) 20 mg - 90 Caps	$55.00

How Taken:
Fluoxetine comes as a capsule, a tablet, a delayed-release (long-acting) capsule, and a solution (liquid) to take by mouth. Fluoxetine usually is taken once or twice a day. Make a habit of taking it at the same time you do some other daily activity. It may be 4 weeks before you feel any relief from your depression, but the drug's effects should last about 9 months after a 3-month treatment regimen. For obsessive-compulsive disorder, the full effect may take 5 weeks to appear. To be effective, it should be taken regularly. Your doctor may start you on a low dose of fluoxetine and gradually increase your dose.

Warnings Precautions:
Tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to fluoxetine or any other medications. If you are recovering from a heart attack or if you have liver disease or diabetes you should take this medication. Affecting your judgment Fluoxetine may cause you to become drowsy or less alert. It is not recommended, driving or operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness. While taking this medication, you may feel dizzy or light-headed or actually faint when getting up from a lying or sitting position. Notify your doctor if getting up slowly doesn't help or if this problem continues. Discontinue use of the medication and notify your doctor immediately if you develop a skin rash or hives while taking Fluoxetine. If you have a history of seizures Fluoxetine should be used with caution. Before taking this medication you should discuss all of your medical conditions with your doctor. Fluoxetine can occasionally cause decreased appetite and weight loss, especially in depressed people who are already underweight and in those with bulimia. Tell your doctor if you notice changes in your weight or appetite. The effects of Fluoxetine during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. Inform your doctor immediately if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Breastfeeding is not recommended while you are taking Fluoxetine this medication appears in breast milk. Also remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this medication.

Missed Dose:
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Side Effects:
Fluoxetine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away: nervousness, nausea, dry mouth, drowsiness, weakness, uncontrollable shaking of a part of the body, loss of appetite, weight loss, changes in sex drive or ability or excessive sweating. In children and adolescents, less common side effects may also include: Agitation, excessive menstrual bleeding, frequent urination, hyperactivity, mania or hypomania (inappropriate feelings of elation and/or rapid thoughts), nosebleeds, personality changes, and thirst. A wide variety of other very rare reactions have been reported during Fluoxetine therapy. If you develop any new or unexplained symptoms, tell your doctor without delay. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Fluoxetine.

Storage:
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store in a dry place at 20-25 degrees C (68-77 F). Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.

Overdose:
If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Common symptoms of Fluoxetine overdose include : Nausea, rapid heartbeat, seizures, sleepiness, vomiting. Other symptoms of Fluoxetine overdose include: Coma, delirium, fainting, high fever, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, mania, rigid muscles, sweating, stupor. Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. An overdose of Fluoxetine can be fatal. In addition, combining Fluoxetine with certain other drugs can cause symptoms of overdose.

More Information:
Do not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about refilling your prescription. Do not take with MAO inhibitors or for at least two weeks after their discontinuation. MAO inhibitor medications should not be taken for at least five weeks after discontinuing Fluoxetine. This medication has not been studied extensively in the US and re-evaluation periodically by your physician is advised. Check with you pharmacist when taking with other medications. Most medications affecting the brain have the potential to slow reflexes or impair judgment and caution is advised.

This entry was filed under Anti-Depressants.