Prescription Drug Index

Fluoxetine is prescribed for the treatment of depression that is a continuing depression that interferes with daily functioning. The symptoms of major depression often include changes in appetite sleep habits and mind/body coordination; decreased sex drive; increased fatigue; feelings of guilt or worthlessness; difficulty concentrating; slowed thinking; and suicidal thoughts.

Fluoxetine is also prescribed to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder. An obsession is a thought that won't go away; a compulsion is an action done over and over to relieve anxiety. The drug is also used in the treatment of bulimia (binge-eating followed by deliberate vomiting). It has also been used to treat other eating disorders and obesity.

Fluoxetine is also prescribed for the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) formerly known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Symptoms of PMDD include mood problems such as anxiety depression irritability or persistent anger mood swings and tension. Physical problems that accompany PMDD include bloating breast tenderness headache and joint and muscle pain. Symptoms typically begin 1 to 2 weeks before a woman’s menstrual period and are severe enough to interfere with day-to-day activities and relationships.

Fluoxetine is a member of the family of drugs called selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors. Serotonin is one of the chemical messengers believed to govern moods. Ordinarily it is quickly reabsorbed after its release at the junctures between nerves. Re-uptake inhibitors such as Fluoxetine slow this process thereby boosting the levels of serotonin available in the brain.

ADULTS

The usual starting dose is 20 milligrams per day taken in the morning. Your doctor may increase your dose after several weeks if no improvement is observed. People with kidney or liver disease the elderly and those taking other drugs may have their dosages adjusted by their doctor.

Dosages above 20 milligrams daily should be taken once a day in the morning or in 2 smaller doses taken in the morning and at noon.

The usual daily dose for depression ranges from 20 to 60 milligrams. For obsessive-compulsive disorder the customary range is 20 to 60 milligrams per day though a maximum of 80 milligrams is sometimes prescribed. For bulimia nervosa the usual dose is 60 milligrams taken in the morning. Your doctor may have you start with less and build up to this dosage. The usual dose for premenstrual dysphoric disorder is 20 milligrams a day.

Switching to another medication or discontinuing this medication may involve slow reduction of this medication while the other is also being slowly introduced.

Note:

The content in this section is provided for informational purposes only. This information regarding the following Canadian drugs is not intended to replace or act as a substitute for information or advice provided by your physician. You should always consult a physician before beginning a new medication. Moreover, prescription drugs should only be obtained with a doctor's prescription.

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