Description

Prozac

Prozac is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat conditions like: depression, anxiety disorders (panic attacks), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bulimia, and severe form of premenstrual syndrome (premenstrual dysphoric disorder).

Usages

Directions for Intake: Take prozac orally, usually once daily in the morning, with or without food; or as instructed by your doctor. Dosage will depend on your medical condition and response to therapy. Some medical conditions may require a different dosing schedule (e.g., twice daily in the morning and at noon) as determined by your doctor. Make sure to follow your doctor’s instructions religiously. It is important to continue taking the medication even if you feel well. Also, do not stop taking prozac without consulting your doctor. It may take up to 4 weeks before the full benefit to take effect.

If you miss a prozac dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed Fluoxetine dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dosage just to catch up.

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have taken too much of this medication. Symptoms of an Fluoxetine overdose may include irregular heartbeat, fainting, severe dizziness or lightheadedness.

Directions for Storage: Store this medication in a place away from moist, light and extreme heat. The appropriate temperature for the storage area is between 59 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit or 15 to 30 degrees Celsius. Do not place this medication in the bathroom where moist easily accumulates. Also choose a storage area that is not easily accessible to children.

Side Effects

Side Effects: Side effects from using Prozac may vary from person to person.

Mild side effects include nausea, headache, trouble sleeping, dry mouth, drowsiness, sweating, and upset stomach. Serious side effects include loss of appetite, unusual weight loss, unusual or severe mental/mood changes, uncontrolled movements (tremor), decreased interest in sex, and flu-like symptoms (e.g., chills, fever, muscle aches, weakness). Unlikely but serious side effects include vision changes, trouble swallowing, swelling or white spots on the mouth and/or tongue, changes in sexual ability, and painful and/or prolonged erection. Highly unlikely but very serious side effects include fainting and irregular/fast heartbeat.

It is best to contact your physician once any of the listed side effects manifest. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. If you notice any other symptoms that are not included in the list above, contact your physician or pharmacist immediately.

Warnings

Precautions: Always inform your doctor of any prescription or over-the-counter medications that you are taking prior to taking Prozac. Thoroughly discuss your medical history with your doctor, especially of conditions like: liver problems, kidney disease, seizures, heart problems, diabetes, and allergies to medication.

Use with caution when engaging in activities that require alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages while taking Prozac. Liquid preparations of Prozac may contain sugar and/or small amounts of alcohol. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safe use of Prozac. Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medication.

Prozac should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. It passes into breast milk and may cause potential risk to the infant. Breast-feeding while using Prozac is not recommended. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding if you are planning to use Prozac.

Do not share this medication with others, even if they have the same condition as yourself. Laboratory and/or medical tests may be performed to monitor your progress while or after taking Prozac.