Zactin (fluoxetine) and the benefits of having your medication home delivered

Zactin is used to treat depression and some anxiety disorders.

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The benefits of having medication delivered

Non-adherence to medication is a major reason why treatments shown to be effective in trials are often less effective in clinical practice.

Medicine home delivery helps improve care by ensuring patients have their Zactin (fluoxetine) when they need it, which increases treatment adherence and saves unnecessary trips to traditional pharmacies like Chemist Warehouse, or Priceline.

That’s why 92% of users of the Chemist2U app report that the app is a helpful tool to maintain their healthcare.

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Medically reviewed by Dr Matt Cullen
Last updated 26 June 2024

Some key information about Zactin (fluoxetine)

We know that dealing with medications that may help you in your pursuit of long-term mental wellness can be overwhelming. During consultations with your doctor, you may discuss the possibility of a mental health prescription drug, such as Zactin (fluoxetine).

To help you better understand your options, we’ll guide you through some information.

In this article

1. How does Zactin (fluoxetine) work?

The active ingredient in Zactin is fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). They are thought to act as a serotonin imbalance treatment by boosting levels of serotonin, which can play a key role in mood regulation and, therefore, depression and some anxiety disorders.[1]

They do this by inhibiting the serotonin transporter (SERT), preventing the reabsorption of serotonin back into the nerve cell. This increased presence of serotonin means it can engage with postsynaptic receptors longer, enhancing serotonin activity.[2]

Consultations with a doctor can greatly benefit your understanding of how uniquely a prescription drug like Zactin (fluoxetine) will interact with your body, especially in relation to symptoms of depression, anxiety, or other mood disorders. Your doctor can give you advice that’s more tailored to your unique mental health experience.

2. How do you take Zactin (fluoxetine)?

Taking Zactin (fluoxetine) must be done with care and precision.

Take it orally with water, and whether you pair it with a meal is entirely up to your preference. Patients are typically prescribed one 20 mg dose a day to start, which can be adjusted by your doctor depending on how you respond to the medication.[3]

Remember, though, that dosage isn’t one-size-fits-all. Your Zactin (fluoxetine) regimen must be determined by your doctor by assessing your medical history, your specific experience with your symptoms, and any other health concerns that you may have. This personalised approach ensures the dosage you receive is the safest for you.

3. Who can take Zactin (fluoxetine)?

While fluoxetine is often taken for managing depression, it also falls under the category of anxiety relief pills for anxiety disorders such as OCD, generalised anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder, as well as treatment for anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and premenstrual dysphoria.[4]

Regardless of your diagnosis, though, it’s not enough to ensure that your doctor has cleared you to take this particular mental health medication. You also have to see to it that they have all your necessary health information when prescribing it.

Full transparency with your doctor about your medical history and any existing conditions is crucial, ensuring the treatment aligns with your unique health needs.

Additionally, if you’re pregnant or planning on getting pregnant, you must let your doctor know. While there’s still no conclusive data on fluoxetine’s effects during pregnancy, your doctor must weigh the potential risks against the consequences of untreated depression.[5]

4. Side effects of Zactin (fluoxetine)

Being informed about the side effects of Zactin (fluoxetine) is crucial so that you can more effectively prepare for your treatment experience and be on the lookout in case of these occurrences.

Common reactions such as nervousness, difficulty sleeping, nausea, dry mouth, sexual dysfunction, and frequent yawning may occur. It’s vital to communicate any of these to your doctor, who can offer adjustments or fluoxetine alternatives to alleviate these symptoms. More serious side effects, such as fainting, seizures, or unusual bleeding and bruising, demand immediate medical attention.[6]

Make sure to talk to your doctor to learn about all the possible side effects you may experience.

If you need to discontinue Zactin (fluoxetine), ask your doctor about exploring other antidepressant options, like Loxalate (escitalopram) or Celapram (escitalopram), so they can determine your next best steps.

5. Zactin (fluoxetine) and other medications

When it comes to Zactin (fluoxetine), it’s crucial to be aware of its potential interactions with other medications you might be taking. It’s vital to have an open and transparent conversation with your doctor about all the medications, vitamins, and supplements in your regimen, whether they’re prescription drugs or over-the-counter remedies.

By sharing a comprehensive list of what you’re currently taking, your doctor will be able to make informed decisions, ensuring that Zactin (fluoxetine) doesn’t compromise your safety.

6. Medicines you should not use with Zactin (fluoxetine)

Avoid using Zactin (fluoxetine) alongside monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and linezolid, these combinations may lead to the life-threatening condition known as serotonin syndrome.[7] A critical safety measure is ensuring a two-week gap between discontinuing an MAOI and starting Zactin (fluoxetine) to safeguard your health.[8]

It is recommended to be cautious with the concurrent use of SSRIs like Zactin (fluoxetine) with NSAIDs as the interaction can greatly elevate the risk of gastrointestinal issues.[9]

Additionally, fluoxetine must not be combined with pimozide, thioridazine, or tamoxifen due to the risks of adverse reactions.[10]

7. How to order Zactin (fluoxetine) through Chemist2U

Chemist2U is dedicated to making medication management easier for you. As part of that commitment, we offer a reliable home delivery service for your pharmacy needs.

Here’s how:

  1. Download our app or use this website. Shop our selection or upload your script. Either way, we’ve made the process straightforward and accessible for you.
  2. Upload your prescriptions online. For your prescription drugs, you can easily upload your eScript.
  3. Add more over-the-counter medication. Need anything else? Explore our range of drugstore goods, just like the ones you’d find in a physical pharmacy, and add your over-the-counter needs to your cart.
  4. Expert, local care. A qualified pharmacist from a trusted partner pharmacy within your community will carefully prepare your order.
  5. Home delivery. For orders in metro and major regional areas across Australia made before the cutoff time, expect them to be delivered to your doorstep within the day.

Have Chemist2U deliver your medication to your home today.

References

[1] https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1569733910701090

[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/

[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459223/

[4] https://www.nature.com/articles/nrd1821

[5] https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27138915/

[6] https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a689006.html#how

[7] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK554406/#article-28852.s6

[8] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459223/#article-21850.s5

[9] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1884264/

[10]https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459223/#article-21850.s5

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