Fluoxetine (Prozac)

Fluoxetine is a prescription drug that’s used to treat anxiety and depression. It belongs to a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This medication helps improve symptoms of anxiety and depression by increasing serotonin levels in your brain. Fluoxetine is also used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder and panic attacks, and it may relieve symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

Fluoxetine is a type of drug called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). SSRIs are popular with doctors because they have fewer side effects than older antidepressants. SSRIs block your brain’s ability to reabsorb serotonin after it’s been released, improving your mood and relieving symptoms of panic, such as social anxiety, insomnia, irritability, and nausea.

Fluoxetine is relatively safe. The most common side effects associated with its use are nausea, dry mouth, and difficulty sleeping. While some may experience a mild stomach ache or a headache as a result of taking fluoxetine, these symptoms should pass within a few days of continued treatment. While relatively rare, some patients have reported swelling in their hands or feet as well as an increased heart rate following fluoxetine use. However, such symptoms should clear up within one to two weeks of continuing treatment.

Fluoxetine is typically taken once or twice daily and can be taken orally with or without food. It should be taken around the same time(s) daily. Take fluoxetine as directed. Your provider may start you on a low dose of fluoxetine and increase your dose gradually.

It is recommended that you talk to your provider or pharmacist before taking fluoxetine with any other medications. This includes over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and supplements. Do not stop taking any medications without first consulting your provider. If you are unsure whether a medication may be causing some side effects, ask your provider for more information.

It is important to discuss all of your medical history and health risks with your provider prior to starting treatment. If you experience any serious side effects while taking fluoxetine, contact your provider immediately. If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication for other conditions, or have a chronic illness be sure to speak with your provider prior to beginning treatment. Because fluoxetine may cause drowsiness, do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and should be avoided.

Since fluoxetine is a type of SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), it can take up to two weeks for users to feel any relief. It may take 4 weeks or longer before you feel the full effects of fluoxetine. If you start taking it and don’t notice an improvement in your mood after 5 weeks, talk with your provider about other treatment options.

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