Fluoxetine (Prozac)

Uses: This medication is used to treat mental depression, obsessive-compulsive symptoms associated with Tourette’s disorder, and in the treatments of obesity and bulimia nervosa. This medication has also been used to treat PMS (premenstrual syndrome).

How To Take This Medication: May be taken with food to prevent stomach upset. Take this as prescribed. Try to take each dose at the same time(s) each day so you remember to routinely take it.

Side Effects: May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Use caution performing tasks that require alertness. Other side effects include heartburn, loss of appetite, headache, anxiety, flushing or sweating, change in sexual desire or ability. If these symptoms persist or become bothersome, inform your doctor. Notify your doctor if you develop a rapid heart rate, difficulty breathing, difficulty urinating, a rash or hives while taking this medication.

Precautions: Tell doctor if you had a recent heart attack or if you have a history of seizures; heart, liver, or kidney disease; or diabetes. Fluoxetine may affect the amount of glucose (sugar) in your blood, so your dosage of diabetes medication may need to be adjusted when fluoxetine is started or discontinued. Women who are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding should inform their doctors. Avoid alcohol while taking this medication.

Drug Interactions: Before taking fluoxetine, tell your doctor what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking (or have taken in the last two weeks), especially tranquilizers, antidepressants (Buspar), MAO inhibitors (isocarboxazid or Marplan, phenelzine or Nardil, tranylcypromine or Parnate), lithium, tryptophan, medication for anxiety (tranquilizers like Valium), and medication for diabetes. Do not take any nonprescription medication without consulting your doctor.

Notes: Do not allow anyone else to take this medication.

Missed Dose: It is not necessary to make up the missed dose. Skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not “double-up” the dose to catch up.

Storage: Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (between 15 and 30 degrees C) away from moisture and sunlight. Do not store in the bathroom.

For more information contact your physician