Indications 

Prozac is a pharmaceutical agent utilized to treat a range of psychiatric conditions, including depression, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, bulimia, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.  

This medication is known to have a positive impact on various psychological aspects of an individual, including mood, sleep, appetite, and energy levels, while aiding in the restoration of interest in daily activities.  

Prozac is known to mitigate the presence of fear, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, and panic attacks, as well as minimize the urge to perform repetitive tasks that interfere with daily functioning, such as hand-washing, counting, and checking.  

In particular, fluoxetine may reduce premenstrual symptoms, such as irritability, increased appetite, and depression, and alleviate binging and purging behaviors in bulimia. 

Uses and Dosage 

Prior to commencing the use of fluoxetine, review the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist. This action should be repeated each time you refill your prescription. In the event that you have inquiries regarding this medication, kindly consult with your doctor or pharmacist. 

Fluoxetine is intended to be taken orally in accordance with the instructions provided by your doctor. Taken once daily in the morning. However, in instances where you are directed to take the medication twice a day, your doctor may advise you to take one dose in the morning and the other at noon. 

If fluoxetine has been prescribed to you for premenstrual dysphoric disorder, your doctor may direct you to take the medication every day of the month or solely during the two weeks prior to your period and up until the first day of your period. 

The dosage of fluoxetine is determined by your medical condition and your body’s response to the treatment. To minimize the risk of adverse effects, your doctor may initially recommend a low dose and gradually increase it. Follow your doctor’s instructions meticulously. Consistent use of the medication is crucial to derive the optimal benefits.  

Continue taking the medication even if you feel well. Discontinuing the medication abruptly can exacerbate certain medical conditions. Therefore, consult with your doctor before ceasing use of the medication. Depending on your circumstances, your doctor may recommend gradually reducing the dose. 

Side Effects 

Allergic Reactions

In case of signs of an allergic reaction to Prozac (hives, difficult breathing, swelling in your face or throat) or a severe skin reaction (fever, sore throat, burning eyes, skin pain, red or purple skin rash with blistering and peeling), seek emergency medical help immediately. 

Severe Side Effects

Inform your doctor if you experience any new or worsening symptoms, including: 

• Mood or behavior changes 
• Anxiety 
• Panic attacks 
• Trouble sleeping 
• Feel impulsive 
• Irritable or agitated 
• Hostile 
• Aggressive 
• Restless 
• Hyperactive (mentally or physically) 
• More depressed 
• Have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself 

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious side effects of Prozac: 

• Blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights 
• Fast or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, shortness of breath, and sudden dizziness (like you might pass out) 
• Low levels of sodium in the body:
  • Headache
  • Confusion
  • Slurred speech
  • Severe weakness
  • Vomiting
  • Loss of coordination
  • Feeling unsteady 
• Severe nervous system reaction:
  • Very stiff (rigid) muscles
  • High fever
  • Sweating
  • Confusion
  • Fast or uneven heartbeats
  • Tremors
  • Feeling like you might pass out 

Seek medical attention right away if you experience symptoms of serotonin syndrome, such as; 

• Agitation 
• Hallucinations 
• Fever 
• Sweating 
• Shivering 
• Fast heart rate 
• Muscle stiffness 
• Twitching 
• Loss of coordination 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Diarrhea 

Common Side Effects 

• Sleep problems (insomnia) or strange dreams 
• Headache, dizziness, drowsiness, or vision changes 
• Tremors or shaking, feeling anxious or nervous 
• Pain, weakness, yawning, or tired feeling 
• Upset stomach, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea 
• Dry mouth, sweating, or hot flashes 
• Changes in weight or appetite 
• Stuffy nose, sinus pain, sore throat, or flu symptoms 
• Decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm 

Caution 

Do not use Prozac concomitantly with pimozide, thioridazine, or methylene blue injection. Individuals who have taken an MAO inhibitor within the preceding 14 days, such as isocarboxazid, rasagiline, selegiline, phenelzine, or tranylcypromine, should not use fluoxetine.  

Allow a minimum of 14 days between discontinuation of an MAO inhibitor and initiation of Prozac. Moreover, a waiting period of at least 5 weeks after stopping Prozac is necessary before thioridazine or an MAOI can be administered.  

Some young patients may experience suicidal ideation when initiating antidepressant therapy, and vigilance is required for any changes in mood or symptoms. Furthermore, Prozac has the potential to impair judgment, thinking, or motor skills; therefore, individuals should exercise caution when operating machinery.