|
Fluoxetine (floo-OX-e-teen) is used to treat mental depression. It is also used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder, bulimia nervosa, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Fluoxetine also may be used for other conditions as determined by your doctor. Fluoxetine belongs to a group of medicines known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). These medicines are thought to work by increasing the activity of a chemical called serotonin in the brain. Fluoxetine is available only with your doctor's prescription, in the following dosage forms: Oral Capsules (U.S. and Canada) Oral solution (U.S. and Canada) Tablets (U.S.)
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. Fluoxetine (Prozac) comes as a capsule, a tablet, a delayed-release (long-acting) capsule, and a solution (liquid) to take by mouth. Fluoxetine may be taken with or without food. Fluoxetine (Sarafem) comes as a capsule to take by mouth. Fluoxetine (Prozac) capsule, tablet, and liquid are usually taken once a day in the morning or twice a day, in the morning and at noon. Fluoxetine delayed-relayed capsule is usually taken once a week. Fluoxetine (Sarafem) is usually taken once a day, either every day of the month or on certain days of the month. To help you remember to take Fluoxetine, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Fluoxetine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor may start you on a low dose of Fluoxetine and gradually increase your dose. It may take 4 to 5 weeks or longer before you feel the full benefit of Fluoxetine. Continue to take Fluoxetine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Fluoxetine without talking to your doctor. Your doctor will probably decrease your dose gradually. Your doctor or pharmacist will give you the manufacturer’s patient information sheet when you begin treatment with Fluoxetine. Read the information carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions. Buy Fluoxetine (U.S. only) or read more info about Fluoxetine. Brand names: - Fluoxetine - Prozac - Prozac Weekly - Sarafem |