Fluoxetine is a drug used medically in the treatment of depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bulimia nervosa, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and many other disorders. It is a psychotropic drug for oral administration.

How Taken

Fluoxetine usually is taken once or twice a day. To be effective, it should be taken regularly. 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.

Warnings/Precautions

Unless you are directed to do so by your doctor, do not take this medication if you are recovering from a heart attack or if you have liver disease or diabetes. Fluoxetine may cause you to become drowsy or less alert and may affect your judgment. Therefore, driving or operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness is not recommended. While taking this medication, you may feel dizzy or light-headed or actually faint when getting up from a lying or sitting position. If getting up slowly doesn't help or if this problem continues, notify your doctor. If you develop a skin rash or hives while taking Fluoxetine, discontinue use of the medication and notify your doctor immediately. Fluoxetine should be used with caution if you have a history of seizures. You should discuss all of your medical conditions with your doctor before taking this medication. Fluoxetine can occasionally cause decreased appetite and weight loss, especially in depressed people who are already underweight and in those with bulimia. If you notice changes in your weight or appetite, tell your doctor. The effects of Fluoxetine during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. This medication appears in breast milk, and breastfeeding is not recommended while you are taking Fluoxetine.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of Fluoxetine and you remember the same day, take it as soon as possible. If you do not remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Possible Side Effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Fluoxetine.
More common side effects may include:
Abnormal dreams, abnormal ejaculation, abnormal vision, anxiety, diminished sex drive, dizziness, dry mouth, flu-like symptoms, flushing, gas, headache, impotence, insomnia, itching, loss of appetite, nausea, nervousness, rash, sinusitis, sleepiness, sore throat, sweating, tremors, upset stomach, vomiting, weakness, yawning.
Less common side effects may include:
Abnormal taste, agitation, bleeding problems, chills, confusion, ear pain, emotional instability, fever, frequent urination, high blood pressure, increased appetite, loss of memory, palpitations, ringing in the ears, sleep disorders, weight gain.
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.

Storage

Store in a dry place at 20-25 degrees C (68-77 F).

Overdose

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. 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.

More Information

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. Most medications affecting the brain have the potential to slow reflexes or impair judgment and caution is advised. 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.

Disclaimer

This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. We disclaim all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.