Drug Uses
Fluoxetine is used in the treatment of depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, bulimia nervosa, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and many others. It is a psychotropic drug for oral administration.
How Taken
The usual dose of Fluoxetine usually is once or twice a day. For efficient treatment, it is important to be taken on a regular basis. Chose an appropriate time during the day to take the medicine so that you will remember more easily. Fluoxetine need at least 4 weeks for the achievement of any results but its effect should stay 9 months after a 3-month treatment regimen. In cases of obsessive-compulsive disorder, the full effect may take 5 weeks to appear.
Warnings/Precautions
If you have recently experienced a heart attack or you suffer from liver disease or diabetes, most probably you should not take Fluoxetine, unless your doctor has given you other instructions. The usage of Fluoxetine may lead to drowsiness and decreased alertness and may influence your judgment. During the treatment period, it’s wiser to avoid driving or working with machines or participating in any other dangerous activities that require full mental alertness. The usage of this medicine can lead to dizziness and you might feel light-headed and even faint when getting up from a lying or sitting position. Try to get up slowly and if the problem still stays, contact your doctor. If you experience a skin rash or hives while taking Fluoxetine, stop treatment and notify your doctor immediately. Be extremely cautious while taking Fluoxetine if you have suffered from seizures. Discuss all of your medical conditions with your doctor before taking this medication. Fluoxetine may also decrease your appetite and cause weight loss, especially regarding depressed people who are already underweight and those suffering from bulimia. If you observe any changes in your weight or appetite, contact your doctor. Fluoxetine is not fully studied regarding any effects during pregnancy. Your doctor should be informed if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. The drug is know to pass into breast milk and you should not use it if you are breastfeeding a baby.
Missed Dose
If by any chance you miss a dose of Fluoxetine and you realize that the same day, take it right away. If you notice this on the next day, just forget about the skipped dose and follow your normal dose schedule. You should not take two doses at one time.
Possible Side Effects
Side effects cannot bepredicted. If you notice any unusual conditions, contact your physician. You will be advised whether it is safe for you to continue the treatment. Other possible side effects are:
Abnormal dreams diminished sex drive, flu-like symptoms, flushing, abnormal ejaculation, itching,dizziness, headache, dry mouth, gas, sleepiness, sweating, impotence upset stomach, insomnia, weakness, loss of appetite, sinusitis, nausea, rash, anxiety, abnormal vision, sore throat, nervousness, tremors, vomiting, yawning.
More rare but also possible are the following symptoms:
Abnormal taste, sleep disorders,bleeding problems, confusion, agitation,high blood pressure, emotional instability, palpitations, increased appetite, ear pain, chills, fever, loss of memory, frequent urination, ringing in the ears, weight gain.
Children and adolescents may experience the following conditions: Agitation, frequent urination, excessive menstrual bleeding, mania or hypomania (inappropriate feelings of elation and/or rapid thoughts), personality changes, hyperactivity,nosebleeds, and thirst.
There are many other reactions that may occur during the usage of Fluoxetine. In such cases do not doubt to inform your doctor.
Storage
Keep in a dry place at 20-25 degrees C (68-77 F).
Overdose
Fluoxetine overdose can be fatal. The combination of Fluoxetine with other medications may cause symptoms of overdose. If you have any worries about an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Most usual symptoms of Fluoxetine overdose are : Nausea, low blood pressure, high fever,seizures, rapid heartbeat, sleepiness, sweating, fainting, Coma, delirium, irregular heartbeat, mania, rigid muscles, vomiting, stupor.
More Information
During treatment with Fluoxetine or at least two weeks before it, you should be careful not to take MAO inhibitors. Medications containing MAO inhibitor must not be taken for at least five weeks after discontinuing Fluoxetine. Most medications affecting the brain usually slow reflexes or impair judgment and that’s why you have to be cautious. Fluoxetine has not been fully studied in the US and your physician should make periodical re-evaluations. Consult your doctor before taking any other drugs during Fluoxetine therapy.
Disclaimer
The information above is only for your awareness and it is not comprehensive. It doesn’t cover all the existing information on the topic. It is has a generalizing purpose and it should not be used for any other reasons. The listed information is not purposed for each specific patient. We are not responsible for the truthfulness and punctuality of the included information and for any consequences due to the use of the containing data. There can be expressed no rights, on the basis of this data
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