Prozac - Ladose (fluoxetine hydrocloride)
Prozac (fluoxetine) belongs to a family of medicines called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is most often used to treat depression, but may also be prescribed for other conditions including: anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder and eating disorders (bulimia). Fluoxetine is also used to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder, symptoms of which occur in the week or two before a woman's menstrual period and commonly include irritability, mood swings, and tension as well as the physical symptoms of bloating and breast tenderness.
Fluoxetine works to regulate the balance of a chemical called serotonin in the brain. Unbalanced serotonin can cause depression or mood disturbances, eating disorders, or obsessive or compulsive symptoms. Fluoxetine does not have MAO activity.
Prozac is the only antidepressant that is FDA-approved for use in children with depression.
Directions for use:
It's important to take Prozac as directed by your doctor. Individual doses vary greatly between individuals. The usual dose of Prozac is 20mg to 80mg, once a day. Prozac is usually taken in the morning to prevent trouble sleeping at night, a common side effect of the drug. You can take Prozac with or without food. Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next regularly scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and take the next one as directed. Do not take a double dose of this medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor.
Although Prozac may start working within the first two weeks of treatment, it may take up four to eight weeks to see the full benefit of the drug.
Prozac belongs to a group of anti depressants.
Prozac Safety Info
Prozac is generally well tolerated. Most of the side effects will go away within a few weeks as treatment continues.
Prozac may interact with several medications, so you should consult with your doctor before taking Prozac. Make sure your doctor knows about all other medications you are taking. Prozac in combination with some other medication can cause side effects and can also lead to more severe problems.
Do not take the medication during pregnancy.
You may have thoughts about suicide when you first start taking an antidepressant, especially if you are younger than 24 years old. Call your doctor!
Call your doctor at once if you have any worsening symptoms.
Prozac Dosage
- 20mg to 80mg, once a day.
Prozac Side Effects
- nausea
- diarrhea
- trouble sleeping
- flu symptoms
- dry mouth, increased sweating
- fast or irregular heartbeat
- sexual problems
- tremors
- anxiety
