Drug Name: PROZAC
FLUOXETINE - ORAL (flew-OX-eh-teen)
COMMON PROZAC BRAND NAME(S):
Prozac, Fluctine
PROZAC USES:
Prozac (Fluoxetine) is used to treat depression, bulimia (an eating
disorder), obsessive compulsive disorders (OCD), and severe symptoms
of premenstrual syndrome (premenstrual dysphoric disorder-PMDD).
Prozac works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural
chemicals in the brain. Prozac has also been used to treat panic
attacks, obesity, and alcoholism.
HOW TO USE PROZAC:
Take Prozac by mouth usually once daily in the morning, with or
without food; or as directed by your doctor. The Prozac dosage is
based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Some medical
conditions may require a different Prozac dosing schedule (e.g.,
twice daily in the morning and at noon) as determined by your doctor.
Take Prozac exactly as prescribed. It is important to continue taking
Prozac even if you feel well. Also, do not stop taking Prozac without
consulting your doctor. It may take up to 4 weeks before the full
benefit of Prozac takes effect.
PROZAC SIDE EFFECTS:
The most common side effects seen in people taking Prozac include
anxiety or nervousness, insomnia, drowsiness, headache, diarrhea,
and rash. In addition, sexual side effects (reduced arousal or satisfaction)
may occur. Prozac has also been shown to cause changes in appetite
and weight, usually resulting in weight loss rather than weight
gain. Most Prozac side effects are mild and brief, usually subsiding
in a week or two after beginning treatment. Particularly bothersome
Prozac side effects can be treated with medication or by reducing
the dose of the Prozac antidepressant, changing the time the medication
is taken, or switching to a different antidepressant.
PROZAC PRECAUTIONS:
Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver problems,
kidney disease, seizures, heart problems, diabetes, any allergies
from taking Prozac. Prozac may make you dizzy or drowsy; use caution
engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using
machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages while taking Prozac. Liquid
preparations of Prozac may contain sugar and/or small amounts of
alcohol. Caution is advised if you have diabetes, alcohol dependence,
or liver disease. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safe use
of Prozac. Caution is advised when using Prozac in the elderly because
they may be more sensitive to the effects of Prozac. Prozac should
be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks
and benefits of taking Prozac with your doctor. Prozac passes into
breast milk. Because of the potential risk to the infant, breast-feeding
while using Prozac is not recommended. Consult your doctor before
breast-feeding if you are planning to use Prozac.
PROZAC DRUG INTERACTIONS:
Prozac should not be taken until at least two weeks after MAOIs
(e.g., Nardil and Parnate) are discontinued. Similarly, MAOIs should
not be taken for at least five weeks after treatment with Prozac
has been discontinued. The interaction between the two could produce
fatal results. Consumers should always consult with their physicians
when taking medications in addition to the prescribed antidepressant.
Alcohol consumption should always be avoided when taking prescribed
medications.
PROZAC OVERDOSE:
If Prozac overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control
center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of Prozac overdose
may include: irregular heartbeat, fainting, severe dizziness or
lightheadedness.
PROZAC NOTES:
Do not share Prozac with others. Laboratory and/or medical tests
may be performed to monitor your progress while or after taking
Prozac.
MISSED PROZAC DOSE:
If you miss a Prozac dose, use Prozac as soon as you remember. If
it is near the time of the next Prozac dose, skip the missed Prozac
dose and resume your usual Prozac dosing schedule. Do not double
the Prozac dose to catch up.
PROZAC STORAGE:
Store Prozac at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15
to 30 degrees C) away from heat and light. Do not store Prozac in
a moist bathroom. Keep Prozac and all medications out of the reach
of children. |
Prozac Drug Information
