Chemical Name: FLUOXETINE
 
Common uses

This medicine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat depression, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or bulimia. This medicine may also be used to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). It may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Before using

Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Do not take this medicine if you are taking astemizole, dexfenfluramine, fenfluramine, sibutramine, terfenadine, thioridazine, tramadol, or monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Additional monitoring of your dose or condition may be needed if you are taking cisapride, clozapine, cyclobenzaprine, cyproheptadine, lithium, propafenone, selegiline, tricyclic antidepressants, or medicine for seizures. Inform your doctor of any other medical conditions, allergies, pregnancy, or breast-feeding.

Directions

Take this medicine with food if it upsets your stomach. Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and light. Continue to take this medicine even if you feel better. Do not miss any doses. If you miss a dose of this medicine, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Cautions

Do not take this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to it or are allergic to any ingredient in this product. Up to 4 weeks may pass before this medicine reaches its full effect. Do not stop taking this medicine without checking with your doctor. Keep all doctor and laboratory appointments while you are taking this medicine.

Additional monitoring of your condition is recommended at the start of treatment with this medicine and whenever a change to your dose is made. If you experience anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, difficulty sleeping, irritability, hostility, impulsive feelings, severe restlessness, or worsening of depression contact your doctor as soon as possible. These may be signs that your condition is worsening or that your treatment with this medicine should be evaluated. If you are a parent or caregiver of a patient that is taking this medicine, it is important for you to watch for these symptoms. Contact the doctor as soon as possible if any of these symptoms occur.

Do not drive, operate machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how you react to this medicine. Using this medicine alone, with other medicines, or with alcohol may lessen your ability to drive or to perform other potentially dangerous tasks.

This medicine will add to the effects of alcohol and other depressants.

Caution is advised when using this medicine in children because they may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine. For women: if you plan on becoming pregnant, discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during pregnancy, especially during the third trimester. This medicine is excreted in breast milk. Do not breast-feed while taking this medicine.

Possible side effects

Side effects, that may go away during treatment, include nervousness, trouble sleeping, headache, drowsiness, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, dry mouth, sweating, dizziness, lightheadedness, muscle spasms, or changes in sexual function. If they continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience thoughts of hurting yourself, mental or mood changes, or worsening of depression.

An allergic reaction to this medicine is unlikely, but seek immediate medical attention if it occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

Overdose

If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, seizures, restlessness, fast or irregular heartbeat, and fainting.

Additional information

Do not share this medicine with others for whom it was not prescribed. Do not use this medicine for other health conditions. Keep this medicine out of the reach of children and pets. If using this medicine for an extended period of time, obtain refills before your supply runs out.

Drug interactions

Drug interactions can result in unwanted side effects or prevent a medicine from doing its job. Some medicines or medical conditions may interact with this medicine. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and over-the-counter medicine that you are taking.