What is Prozac?
ProzacŪ (fluoxetine) is
part of the SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) family. It is usually prescribed to
treat major depression, but is also used to treat eating disorders and anxiety disorders.
ProzacŪ regulates the serotonin level in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical that is thought to
be a contributor to the feelings of happiness and well-being. It is also prescribed for other
conditions such as anxiety disorders and eating disorders.
ProzacŪ usage
Fluoxetine's
usual dosage is 20 to 80 mg taken once per day. It's always important to take ProzacŪ as directed
by your doctor. There is also an alternative in ProzacŪ Weekly 90 mg that is taken just once a
week. It is usually in the morning to prevent difficulty sleeping at night. You can take
ProzacŪ with or without food. It may not start working within the first two weeks of usage;
however, it may take up to four to six weeks to see the full benefit of the drug.
ProzacŪ most common side effects
ProzacŪ is generally
well tolerated by people using the drug. Its most commonly reported side effects include
nausea, trouble sleeping, drowsiness, anxiety, nervousness, headache, loss of appetite,
tremors, dry mouth, diarrhea, and sweating. ProzacŪ may also cause sexual dysfunction including
a decrease in sex drive, delayed ejaculation or impotence. Some of these effects will go away
within a few weeks as ProzacŪ treatment continues. For most people, side effects aren't serious
enough to stop taking ProzacŪ. If you have trouble sleeping, take ProzacŪ in the morning. Take
it at bedtime if ProzacŪ makes you drowsy. If you experience sexual dysfunction or any
bothersome side effects, be sure to notify your doctor. If you develop a rash while taking
ProzacŪ, call your doctor right away because this can be a sign of a serious medical
condition.
Read an in-depth report on depression in our Health
Encyclopedia.
If you're looking for more specific answers to specific questions, ask a Walgreens pharmacist here.
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