Some important information about fluoxetine
Fluoxetine is a mental health medication typically prescribed for those with psychiatric disorders.
Chemist2U is aware that navigating medications may be overwhelming. In this article, you’ll find some information about this antidepressant that will assist conversations with your doctor during consultations.
In this article
How does fluoxetine work?
Fluoxetine is a psychiatric medication typically prescribed for mental health conditions like depression and anxiety disorders. It’s sold under the brand name Prozac, among others. Just like citalopram and escitalopram, this prescription drug falls under the category of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
As their name suggests, SSRIs like fluoxetine function as a depression treatment due to their ability to enhance serotonin activity levels in the brain. By inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin, fluoxetine can help this neurotransmitter remain active in the brain for longer periods.[1]
This is important because serotonin is a pivotal neurotransmitter and hormone that plays an indispensable role in modulating mood and emotional well-being. Because of this, its imbalance is often linked to psychiatric conditions such as depression and some anxiety disorders, underscoring the importance of maintaining its equilibrium.[2]
So, as serotonin activity is one important factor involved in alleviating the symptoms of depression and anxiety, SSRIs like fluoxetine may be prescribed as part of the mental health support plan for individuals looking to manage their symptoms.
How do you take fluoxetine?
Fluoxetine is typically available in an oral solution at 20 mg/5 ml, as well as tablets and capsules that come in different formulations. It is typically taken once daily, either in the morning or evening, with the starting dose often being 20 mg. [3]
With that being said, however, it’s essential to remember that the right fluoxetine dosage and schedule depend on various factors, including your specific condition, symptoms, and medical history. That’s why a conversation with your doctor is a must. They will provide dosage instructions tailored to your health profile, ensuring you get the support you need as you manage your mental health.
Who can take fluoxetine?
Fluoxetine may be prescribed for major depressive disorder in patients who are at least eight years old. It is also used as an anxiety medication for conditions like obsessive-compulsive disorder (for those aged seven and above) and panic disorder.[4] Additionally, it can be prescribed as a treatment for bulimia, binge eating disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. [5]
However, regardless of your diagnosed condition, you must not take fluoxetine unless prescribed by your doctor. They will have to assess your specific experience with your symptoms, medical history, and other factors to determine if the drug is suitable.
Side effects of fluoxetine
Being informed about the side effects of fluoxetine can help you prepare for the medication experience better. It also makes spotting these side effects easier while monitoring your response to the treatment.
Among the common side effects are insomnia, nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, headache, drowsiness, anxiety, nervousness, and yawning, along with changes in libido and arousal.[6] If these symptoms persist, let your doctor know. More serious side effects, such as rare cases of bleeding, seizures, and activation of suicidal ideation and behaviour, are possible and require immediate medical attention.[7]
Open and thorough communication with your doctor is key to managing these adverse effects. They are equipped to offer adjustments in your dosage or provide suggestions to alleviate these symptoms. In certain cases, your doctor might consider other SSRI options like Brintellix (vortioxetine).
Fluoxetine and other medications
Before taking fluoxetine, it’s crucial to have an open and transparent dialogue with your doctor about all the medications and supplements you’re currently taking. This includes both prescription and over-the-counter drugs currently in your medication regimen.
Potential drug interactions could impact the effectiveness of your regimen or, in some cases, lead to or exacerbate adverse effects. Your doctor’s role is to ensure that your treatment is suitable for your condition, which means taking a detailed inventory of your current medications to avoid any potential conflicts or complications.
Medicines you should not use with fluoxetine
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), often prescribed for psychiatric disorders, cannot be used alongside fluoxetine.[8] A window of at least two weeks is needed when transitioning from MAOIs to fluoxetine to avoid adverse effects. Fluoxetine is also not compatible with linezolid, nor can it be taken with pimozide, thioridazine, or tamoxifen.[9]
You may need to avoid taking nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) as taking NSAIDs alongside SSRIs like fluoxetine has been found to increase the risk of gastrointestinal side effects.[10]
If you’re currently on any of these medications and fluoxetine is being considered for your treatment, it’s vital to have an open conversation with your doctor. There may be alternative treatments to fluoxetine that can be explored.
How to order fluoxetine through Chemist2U
Our team at Chemist2U understands that, whether you’re a patient or a carer, managing medications should be easy. This is why we want to make your experience of adhering to your medication regimen easier through our home delivery service. Here’s how it works:
- Download our app or use this website.
- Upload your prescription. Easily upload your e-prescription for your medications on our platform.
- Add over-the-counter products. You can also browse through other pharmacy products, just like you would at a physical pharmacy. Feel free to add any over-the-counter medication and general pharmacy products to your cart.
- Service from a local pharmacy. Your order will be dispensed by a trusted chemist from one of our partner pharmacies in your area.
- Delivered to your door. Have your order in by the cutoff time, which is usually 2 p.m. but differs in some areas, and enjoy same-day delivery in metro and major regional areas across Australia. Note: A minority of products (inc. Ozempic and Mounjaro) are delivered via AusPost. Allow 5 to 7 business days.
What are you waiting for? Turn to Chemist2U for convenient home delivery of your medications today!
References
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/
[2] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1569733910701090
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459223/
[4] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459223/
[5] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459223/
[6] https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a689006.html
[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459223/
[8] https://link.springer.com/article/10.2165/00003088-199426030-00004
[9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459223/#article-21850.s5
