Prozac (Fluoxetine)

What is the brand name for this medicine?
Prozac

What is this medicine used for?
This medicine is indicated to treat depression, OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder), and bulimia, an eating disorder. Your doctor may have prescribed Prozac to treat other conditions as well.

How does this medicine work?
This medicine works by restoring the balance of a chemical in the brain (serotonin) by blocking its reuptake into the nerve cells.

How is this medicine taken?
Prozac should be taken about the same time every day, generally recommended in the morning and may be taken with food if stomach upset occurs. Prozac may take up to 4 weeks to reach full effect, but you may see symptoms of depression improving in 1 to 2 weeks.

What if I miss a dose?
Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses.

How is this medicine stored?
Store at room temperature in a tightly closed container. Keep away from heat and light.

Are there side effects?
Side effects that you may experience while taking Prozac include nervousness, anxiety, trouble sleeping, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite. If you experience any sexual problems, talk to your doctor.

Are there precautions with this medicine?
Don’t stop taking this medicine until you have consulted with your doctor first. Also, make sure that you know how the medicine affects you before driving or performing other tasks that require your full attention.

What about interactions with other drugs?
Do not take this medicine with thioridizine, or within 5 weeks of taking Prozac. Medicines called MAO inhibitors should not be taken while taking Prozac. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure which drugs are MAO inhibitors.
St. John’s Wort should be avoided while taking this medicine due to the additive effects of serotonin.

Can I take this medicine if I’m pregnant or breast-feeding?
If you are, or plan to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about the benefits versus the risks of using this medicine during your pregnancy.  For nursing mothers, this medicine is excreted in the breast milk. Avoid or refrain from nursing.