Fluoxetine is the generic form of the brand-name medication Prozac. It is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, anxiety, panic attacks, some eating disorders, and menstrual symptoms.
Typically, you should take it once daily with food and water, ideally at breakfast since fluoxetine can cause insomnia. It may take up to 4 to 6 weeks before you notice the full benefits of the medication. Avoid drinking alcohol because it is a depressant that can decrease the benefits of this tablets. Common side effects can include stomach upset, nausea, vomiting, weight loss, dizziness, and insomnia. Be careful driving a car or operating machinery until you know how fluoxetine affects you.
Please contact your doctor right away if you experience worse depression symptoms, sudden mood changes, or suicidal thoughts while taking fluoxetine. Also, make sure to inform your doctor of all other medications (including over-the-counter drugs and supplements) you are taking in order to prevent drug interactions.
This paragraph is only an overview, and it is not intended to replace medical counseling; please consult your pharmacist and/or medical provider for more comprehensive information.
USES: This tablet is used to treat depression, panic attacks, obsessive compulsive disorder, a certain eating disorder (bulimia), and a severe form of premenstrual syndrome (premenstrual dysphoric disorder). This medication may improve your mood, sleep, appetite, and energy level and may help restore your interest in daily living. It may decrease fear, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, and the number of panic attacks. It may also reduce the urge to perform repeated tasks (compulsions such as hand-washing, counting, and checking) that interfere with daily living. This tablet may lessen premenstrual symptoms such as irritability, increased appetite, and depression. It may decrease bingeing and purging behaviors in bulimia.
Barbara Wel –
I took Prozac for approx. 20 years for anxiety and depression. It worked very well for me all those years. About a year ago I thought I needed to get off of it to clean up my system. Today I started back on it and already feel less anxiety and depression. It has saved my life.
JohnnieLSloan –
Fluoxetine has worked very well for me. It does have side effects that are pretty bad, but it was a trade I had to make. Sex life went to zero, loss of energy and low white blood cell count. the white blood cell count showed up as being in the very bottom of the normal range, I found later on the internet that it was a side effect. I had to inform my doctor as he did not know it.
MatthewSWatts –
It took abit to notice the help of it but I have been on it for a year now. I am very happy with it but was wondering about going off of it.
WilliamRLutz –
Fluoxetine works like wonders! Before treatment I lasted less than one minute, but with fluoxetine, I’m able to have satisfying sex, and that’s worth a lot! Got some mild side effects the first few weeks but they disappeared soon. Was definitely worth it to wait until the side effects would subside.
LillianHDewal –
After 25+ years of use my level of fatigue continues diminished. My problem is manifested in reluctance to initiate action, not to maintain it once started. 20 mg. daily works a miracle for me.
Wesley Baez –
Benefits are helping with holding my emotions, anger and feeling low in my self from going off at other people. Protects me from self harming my self. Side effects nil.