Drug Uses
Fluoxetine is a drug used medically in
the treatment of depression, obsessive-compulsive
disorder, bulimia nervosa, premenstrual dysphoric disorder,
and many other disorders. It is a psychotropic
drug for oral administration.
How Taken
Fluoxetine usually is taken once or twice
a day. To be effective, it should be taken regularly. Make
a habit of taking it at the same time you do some other
daily activity. It may be 4 weeks before you feel any relief
from your depression, but the drug's effects
should last about 9 months after a 3-month treatment regimen.
For obsessive-compulsive disorder, the
full effect may take 5 weeks to appear.
Warnings/Precautions
Unless you are directed to do so by your doctor, do not
take this medication if you are recovering from a heart
attack or if you have liver disease or diabetes.
Fluoxetine may cause you to become drowsy or less
alert and may affect your judgment. Therefore, driving or
operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous
activity that requires full mental alertness is not recommended.
While taking this medication, you may feel dizzy or light-headed
or actually faint when getting up from a lying or sitting
position. If getting up slowly doesn't help or if this problem
continues, notify your doctor. If you develop a skin rash
or hives while taking Fluoxetine, discontinue
use of the medication and notify your doctor immediately.
Fluoxetine should be used with caution
if you have a history of seizures. You should discuss all
of your medical conditions with your doctor before taking
this medication. Fluoxetine can occasionally
cause decreased appetite and weight loss, especially in
depressed people who are already underweight and in those
with bulimia. If you notice changes in your weight or appetite,
tell your doctor. The effects of Fluoxetine
during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you
are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor
immediately. This medication appears in breast milk, and
breastfeeding is not recommended while you are taking
Fluoxetine.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Fluoxetine and
you remember the same day, take it as soon as possible.
If you do not remember until the next day, skip the missed
dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not
take 2 doses at once.
Possible Side Effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or
change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible.
Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to
continue taking Fluoxetine. More common
side effects may include: Abnormal dreams, abnormal ejaculation,
abnormal vision, anxiety, diminished sex drive, dizziness,
dry mouth, flu-like symptoms, flushing, gas, headache, impotence,
insomnia, itching, loss of appetite, nausea, nervousness,
rash, sinusitis, sleepiness, sore throat, sweating, tremors,
upset stomach, vomiting, weakness, yawning. Less common
side effects may include: Abnormal taste, agitation, bleeding
problems, chills, confusion, ear pain, emotional instability,
fever, frequent urination, high blood pressure, increased
appetite, loss of memory, palpitations, ringing in the ears,
sleep disorders, weight gain. In children and adolescents,
less common side effects may also include: Agitation, excessive
menstrual bleeding, frequent urination, hyperactivity, mania
or hypomania (inappropriate feelings of elation and/or rapid
thoughts), nosebleeds, personality changes, and thirst.
A wide variety of other very rare reactions have been reported
during Fluoxetine therapy. If you develop
any new or unexplained symptoms, tell your doctor without
delay.
Storage
Store in a dry place at 20-25 degrees C (68-77 F).
Overdose
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences.
An overdose of Fluoxetine can be fatal.
In addition, combining Fluoxetine with
certain other drugs can cause symptoms of overdose. If you
suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
Common symptoms of Fluoxetine overdose
include: Nausea, rapid heartbeat, seizures, sleepiness,
vomiting. Other symptoms of Fluoxetine
overdose include: Coma, delirium, fainting, high fever,
irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, mania, rigid muscles,
sweating, stupor.
More Information
Do not take with MAO inhibitors or for at least two weeks
after their discontinuation. MAO inhibitors medications
should not be taken for at least five weeks after discontinuing
Fluoxetine. Most medications affecting
the brain have the potential to slow reflexes or impair
judgment and caution is advised. This medication has not
been studied extensively in the US and re-evaluation periodically
by your physician is advised. Check with you pharmacist
when taking with other medications.
Disclaimer
This drug information is for your information purposes only, it is not intended that this information covers all uses, directions, drug interactions, precautions, or adverse effects of your medication. This is only general information, and should not be relied on for any purpose. It should not be construed as containing specific instructions for any particular patient. Bestdirectrx.com disclaims all responsibility for the accuracy and reliability of this information, and/or any consequences arising from the use of this information, including damage or adverse consequences to persons or property, however such damages or consequences arise. No warranty, either expressed or implied, is made in regards to this information.
