Prozac (Fluoxetine)

Do's

• Before starting Prozac and at each refill, read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider.
• The dosage of Prozac is typically based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your healthcare provider may start you on a low dose and gradually increase it to reduce the risk of side effects.
• Prozac is usually taken by mouth once daily in the morning. If prescribed to be taken twice a day, your healthcare provider may direct you to take it in the morning and at noon.
• If you are taking Prozac for premenstrual problems, your healthcare provider may direct you to take it every day of the month or just for the 2 weeks before your period through the first full day of your period. It's recommended to mark your calendar to help remember the schedule.
• If using the liquid form of Prozac, measure the dose carefully using a special measuring device/spoon. A household spoon should not be used as it may not provide the correct dose.
• It may take 4 to 5 weeks or longer before feeling the full benefit of Prozac. Continue taking the medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. Take it at the same time each day to help remember.
• If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it is close to the time of the next dose. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• Consult with your healthcare provider before stopping the medication, as some conditions may become worse when the drug is abruptly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

Common Side Effects

• Dry Mouth: Many people report experiencing dry mouth when taking Prozac, which usually goes away after a few weeks as the body adjusts.
• Tremors: Mild tremors may occur, but they are generally manageable and may also subside over time.

Serious Side Effects

Tell your doctor promptly if you experience any serious side effects, including:

• Unusual or Severe Mental/Mood Changes: agitation, unusual high energy/excitement, or thoughts of suicide
• Easy Bleeding/Bruising
• Muscle Weakness/Spasm
• Shakiness (Tremor)
• Decreased Interest in Sex
• Changes in Sexual Ability
• Unusual Weight Loss
• Insomnia
• Anorexia
• Suicidal Thoughts

Consult with a healthcare provider if any of these effects persist or worsen. Additionally, report any unusual problems experienced while taking Prozac to your healthcare provider.

Before taking any drug, including Prozac, consult a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice, considering individual health conditions and potential interactions with other medications or supplements.

The use of Prozac is contraindicated in certain situations, including when a patient is being treated with MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue, as it may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. Additionally, it is contraindicated with medications like pimozide and thioridazine, which can prolong the QT interval.

Before taking Prozac, discuss your health history with your healthcare provider, especially if you have certain medical conditions or factors that may affect your health. These may include fast, slow, or irregular heartbeat, dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, seizures, and suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children and young adults.

Prozac is approved for use in pediatric patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD). However, be aware of potential risks and consult with a healthcare provider.