Fluoxetine (Generic Prozac®) is an antidepressant in a group of drugs 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. This is the only antidepressant that is FDA-approved for use in children with depression. Usage, Directions, Indication and Instructions. This 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). This is also used to relieve the symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder, including mood swings, irritability, bloating, and breast tenderness. Do not take if you are younger than 18 years old without a doctor’s advice. Adverse Reactions, Precautions and Warning. Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: skin rash or hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat. Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself. Avoid drinking alcohol, which can increase some of the side effects. This can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert. Do not start using a new medication without telling your doctor. Dosage and Administration. DepressionAdults: 20 to 80mg/day.Weekly Dosing: 90mg delayed-release caps may be started 7 days after last 20mg daily dose.Bulimia Nervosa60mg/day administered in the morning.To treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder, the usual dose is once daily while you are having your period, or 14 days before you expect your period to start. Do not take the medication in larger amounts, or take it for longer than recommended by your doctor. Important. It may take 4 weeks or longer before you start feeling better. Do not stop without first talking to your doctor. If you suddenly stop, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as mood changes, irritability, agitation, dizziness, numbness or tingling in the hands or feet, anxiety, confusion, headache, tiredness, and difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep. You may have unpleasant side effects if you stop taking suddenly.
Tags: antidepressant, anxiety panic attacks, drinking alcohol, dysphoric disorder, extreme fear, generic prozac, mental balance, mood swings, obsessive compulsive disorder, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, treat depression