How to Take Fluoxetine

Fluoxetine, the generic version of Prozac, is part of a group of drugs known as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), which affect the chemicals in the brain. Fluoxetine is used to treat depression, panic disorders, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Fluoxetine can also be used to treat bulimia nervosa and premenstrual dysphoric disorder, as well as other conditions where your doctor feels Fluoxetine would alleviate the symptoms.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Prescription
• Fluoxetine

1. Follow your doctor’s instructions when taking Fluoxetine. Do not take any more Fluoxetine than is prescribed to you.
2. Take Fluoxetine at the same time every day. Set a schedule and follow it as closely as possible to ensure Fluoxetine will have the greatest effect on your system.
3. Swallow the time-release capsule whole with a full glass of water. Fluoxetine time-release capsules are designed to release the medication into your system slowly. Breaking the capsule will cause too much medication to be released at once.
4. Use a special measuring device, such as a spoon or a cup, to measure the liquid form of Fluoxetine before taking it to ensure the proper dosage. If you do not have a special measuring device, you should ask your pharmacist for one.
5. Keep Fluoxetine at room temperature for both the time-release capsules and the liquid forms. Do not freeze the liquid form and keep both forms away from moisture and intense heat.

Tips & Warnings

• Inform your doctor before taking Fluoxetine if you are pregnant, could become pregnant or are nursing. Fluoxetine could cause serious lung problems in newborn babies.
• It can take up to four weeks to notice the effects of Fluoxetine. Keep taking Fluoxetine until you talk to your doctor if you do not notice immediate effects from the medication.
• Minor side effects from taking Fluoxetine include drowsiness, dizziness, sleep problems, anxiousness, nervousness, restlessness, nausea, runny nose, diarrhea, sore throat, headache, flu-like symptoms, weakness, appetite change, weight change, dry mouth, sweating, poor sex drive, impotence and difficulty with orgasm.
• Watch for symptoms of Fluoxetine overdose. Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, fever, sleepiness, irregular heartbeat, seizure, fainting, confusion and coma. Seek medical attention immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.
• Seek medical attention immediately if you notice signs of an allergic reaction to Fluoxetine. Signs of an allergic reaction include hives, skin rash, trouble breathing and swelling of the lips, tongue, face and throat.
• Contact your doctor as soon as possible if you develop new or increased depression, anxiety, panic attacks, sleep trouble, hostility, mood changes, agitation, severe restlessness, mania or thoughts of suicide.
• Serious side effects from taking Fluoxetine include poor balance and coordination, seizures, peeling skin rash, agitation, confusion, sweating, fast heartbeat, tremors, muscle stiffness, shivering, twitching or unusual thoughts and behavior. Seek medical attention immediately if you suffer from any of these symptoms.
• Do not drink alcohol while taking Fluoxetine.
• You could have a serious or fatal reaction if you take Fluoxetine while you are taking pimozide, thioridazine or any MAO inhibitor.