Fluoxetine

Drug Name - Fluoxetine

Fluoxetine is indicated for use in the management of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) which is a severe type of premenstrual syndrome.

Indications for Use

Fluoxetine is indicated for use in the management of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) which is a severe type of premenstrual syndrome. It could also be prescribed for some other problems as seen fit by the physician.

Instructions for Use

Follow the instructions of your physician in taking Fluoxetine.

• Food has no bearing on the absorption of Fluoxetine
• Develop a routine of consuming Fluoxetine at the same time everyday as this will help in developing a remembering mechanism. Do not forget to take the medicine.
• Do not stop the usage of Fluoxetine without speaking with your doctor even if you begin to feel better.
• Do not abruptly cease taking Fluoxetine without taking instructions from your doctor as there is the high risk of adverse effects like extreme fatigue, mood swings, tingling numbness, insomnia, headache, dizziness and confusion. Therefore, any changes in the dosage or beginning of your therapy will need special monitoring.

Drug Category and Mechanism of Action

Fluoxetine belongs to a type of drug known as SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor). It peforms its functions by restoring natural balance of serotonin, a chemical neurotransmitter located in the brain. By bringing about this change, it helps in bringing about improvements to the mood.

If You Miss a Dose

In case you forget to take a dose, consume it as once you recollect that you missed a dose. In case the time when you remember is close to the next scheduled dose, avoid taking the dose you have missed and take the tablet only at the next scheduled time. Do not compensate for the missed dose by taking extra dose of medicine.

Storing Instructions

Fluoxetine is best stored between 20-25 degrees C (68-77 degrees F) although you can briefly store it under room temperature between 15-30 degrees C (59 -86 degrees F). Avoid direct exposure to heat, sunlight and moisture. Avoid storing the drug in the bathroom. Keep the drug away from children and pets.

Safety Information

Avoid the use of Fluoxetine under the following circumstances:

• In case of allergy to the drug
• In the event that you have been on a monoamine oxide (MAO) inhibitor like phenelazine, St. John's Wort, selegiline in the past two weeks.
• If you are currently on any medications such as fenfluramine derivatives like dexfenfluramine; pimozide; SNRI (serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor like venlafaxine; tryptophan; thioridazine; nefazodone or sibutramine.

Caution

• Avoid consumption of alcohol if you are taking Fluoxetine.
• Avoid combining the drug with alcohol or with any medication that induces drowsiness as it might cause an increase in the effects. If you have any doubts about drugs that induce drowsiness, check with the doctor or the pharmacist.
• Your symptoms might take some time of regular routine use of the medication to show improvements. It is essential to stick to the correct dosage without maing any alterations. Do not take the drug for a longer duration than recommended without consulting the doctor.
• Fluoxetine has the potential to induce suicidal tendencies especially in children and in teenagers. It is essential that family members have a close monitoring of the moods and actions of the individual. Report any sudden changes or if symptoms of anxiety, depression, panic attacks, suicidal thoughts or tendencies, irritability, etc to the physician at the earliest.
• Fluoxetine has the possibility of causing alterations to the level of blood sugar. So, diabetics should have their sugar levels monitored to see if any changes in their dosage of diabetes medication need to be done.
• If you experience any symptoms like agitation, coma, confusion, diarrhea, fever, hallucinations, irregularities of the heart, nausea, profuse sweating, tremor or vomiting, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention.
• Fluoxetine carries the low possibility of causing persistent and painful erection even in the absence of any sexual stimulation. This needs immediate treatment or else it could lead to permanent damage and cause impotence.
• Pregnancy / Breast-feeding - Please inform your doctor if you are pregnant and have been advised to take Fluoxetine and discuss the advantages and risks of using the drug. Fluoxetine has the capacity to harm your child when used in the third trimester. Fluoxetine is found in the breast milk if you are taking the drug avoid nursing your child.

Probable Adverse Effects

Cease the intake of Fluoxetine and seek immediate medical attention if you face any of the severe side effects like allergies from taking the drug, bizarre behavior, worsening of signs of depression, darkening or blood in stools, vision problems, chest pain, unusual swelling, confusion, mood swings, exaggerated reflexes, unusual hoarseness, profuse sweating, unusual bleeding or bruises, irregularities of the heart, tremors, fevers or chills, suicidal tendencies, sore throat, hallucinations, abdominal pain, weight loss, increased quantity of urine, insomnia, seizures, pain in the joints, reduced coordination abilities, agitations, peeling or redness of skin, painful and persistent erection, panic attacks, ringing in ears, aggressiveness, restlessness and inability to stay motionless, hostility, irritability, and an excessive sense of wellbeing.

Some of the commonly observed adverse effects are described below. If these side effects become persistent or causes you trouble, continue to take the drug but make sure to inform your doctor. Some of the commonly seen side effects include anxiety, diarrhea, weakness, insomnia, stomach upset, drying of mouth, profuse sweating, dizziness, reduced libido, nervousness, nausea and reduced appetite.

Additional Information

Fluoxetine is restricted for use in people who have been prescribed the drug and should not be shared with anybody.

If you have any further doubts regarding Fluoxetine, it is best you consult your physician or pharmacist and seek advice.