What is Prozac prescribed for?
Prozac is prescribed to treat conditions like depression, anxiety, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and certain eating disorders like bulimia. It can also be used to help people with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
Prozac (Fluoxetine) Information
How to Use Prozac?
To take Prozac (fluoxetine), follow these simple steps:
- Take the exact amount prescribed by your doctor. It’s usually once a day, either in the morning or evening.
- You can take Prozac with or without food, based on your preference.
- Take the pill whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break it.
- Try to take it at the same time every day to help remember.
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses.
Always follow your doctor's instructions and ask them if you're unsure about anything.
What are the common side effects of Prozac?
Some known common side effects of Prozac include:
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Weakness
- Stuffy Nose
- Weight Loss
- Diarrhea
- Yawning
- Weakness
- Unusual Dreams
- Dry Mouth
- Heartburn
- Difficulty Falling Asleep or Staying Asleep
- Difficulty Concentrating
- Nausea
- Loss of Appetite
- Confusion
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Call your doctor for medical
What are the Drug Interactions of Prozac?
Some known Drug interactions of Prozac include:
- Melatonin
- Ibuprofen
- Zoloft (Sertraline)
- Adderall (Amphetamine / Dextroamphetamine)
- Ambien (Zolpidem)
- Synthroid (Levothyroxine)
- Seroquel (Quetiapine)
- Lamictal (Lamotrigine)
- Trazodone
- Gabapentin
- Klonopin (Clonazepam)
- Topamax (Topiramate)
- Wellbutrin Xl (Bupropion)
- Propranolol
- Vyvanse (Lisdexamfetamine)
- Tramadol
- Xanax (Alprazolam)
- Abilify (Aripiprazole)
- Albuterol
- Hydroxyzine
- Zyrtec (Cetirizine)
- Clonazepam
This is not a complete list of Drug Interactions and others may occur too. Consult your doctor for any medical advice about Drug Interactions.
What is the recommended dosage of Prozac?
The recommended dosage of Prozac (fluoxetine) can vary depending on the condition being treated. Here are the general guidelines:
- For depression: The typical starting dose is 20 mg per day, usually taken in the morning. Your doctor may increase the dose after several weeks if needed, up to a maximum of 80 mg per day.
- For anxiety or panic disorder: The usual starting dose is 10 mg per day, which may be increased to 20 mg after one week.
- For OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder): The starting dose is usually 20 mg per day, and the doctor may increase it if needed.
It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and not change your dose without consulting them.
How much does Prozac cost in Canada?
Starting price of Prozac 10mg Capsule in Canada
- 100 capsules - $324.95 USD ($3.25 per capsules)
How much does the Generic Equivalent Fluoxetine cost in Canada?
Starting price of Fluoxetine 10mg Capsule in Canada
- 100 caps - $60.79 USD ($0.61 per caps)
Prozac (Fluoxetine) FAQs
How long does it take for Prozac to start working?
Prozac usually starts to work within 1 to 4 weeks, but it can take up to 6 weeks to feel its full effects. Some people may notice improvements sooner, while for others, it might take a bit longer. It's important to keep taking it as prescribed and talk to your doctor if you have any concerns.
Is Prozac safe for children?
Prozac is not recommended for every child with depression. Doctors carefully assess the risks and benefits before recommending it, and close monitoring is required. Always follow the doctor's guidance for treatment.
Is Prozac addictive?
No, Prozac (fluoxetine) is not considered addictive. It is a type of antidepressant known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). While it is not addictive, stopping it suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms, so it's important to taper off the medication under a doctor's supervision if you need to stop taking it. Always follow your doctor's advice when taking or discontinuing Prozac.
Can Prozac cause insomnia?
Yes, Prozac (fluoxetine) can cause insomnia in some people. As a side effect, it may make it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep. If you experience insomnia while taking Prozac, it's important to talk to your doctor. They may adjust your dosage or suggest a different treatment to help manage the side effect.
Is Prozac safe for long-term use?
Prozac (fluoxetine) is generally not considered safe for long-term use without careful monitoring by a doctor. While it can be effective for treating conditions like depression, anxiety, and OCD, long-term use may lead to side effects such as weight changes, sleep problems, or increased risk of certain health issues. It's important to regularly consult with a healthcare provider to assess the benefits and risks. If you have concerns about long-term use, talk to your doctor for personalized advice.