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:: Health Conditions - Depression - Fluoxetine
 Prozac - Fluoxetine
 Prozac
is the brand name of a drug Fluoxetine.
Fluoxetine (Prozac) is in a class of drugs called selective
serotonin reuptake inhibitors. Fluoxetine affects chemicals
in the brain that may become unbalanced and cause depression
or mood disturbances, eating disorders, or obsessive or compulsive
symptoms.
Generic Prozac, Fluoxetine is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive
disorders, panic disorder, and bulimia (binge eating and purging).
Fluoxetine is also used to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder
(PMDD), 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.
What happens if I miss a dose?
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.
What happens if I overdose?
Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.
Symptoms of a fluoxetine overdose include nausea, vomiting, tremor, agitation, seizures, drowsiness, hyperactivity, and enlarged pupils.
What are the possible side effects of fluoxetine?
If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking fluoxetine and contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment:
- an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
- an irregular heartbeat or pulse;
- low blood pressure (dizziness, weakness);
- high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision);
- chills or fever;
- unusual bleeding or bruising;
- a rash or hives.
If you experience any of the following less serious side effects, continue taking fluoxetine and talk to your doctor:
- headache, tremor, nervousness, or anxiety;
- difficulty concentrating;
- nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, or changes in appetite or weight;
- weakness;
- increased sweating;
- sleepiness or insomnia; or
- decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.
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