- Used to treat depression
- Also used to treat OCD, bipolar disorder and panic attacks
- Used in the treatment of bulimia and premenstrual problems
- Sometimes used to treat obesity, eating disorders and alcoholism
Prozac is the brand name for the generic drug Fluoxetine which is manufactured and sold by Eli Lilly and it is an SSRI antidepressant. It is available as pulvules and capsules. The pulvules come in strengths of 10 mg, 20 mg and 40 mg. The delayed release capsules contain enteric-coated pellets and they are available in a strength of 90 mg.
Indications
Prozac is prescribed for major depressive disorder as well as other conditions like bipolar disorder, panic attacks, OCD, eating disorders and alcohol abuse.
Action
Fluoxetine is an SSRI or a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor that acts on the serotonin levels in the brain and balances it so that the person feels his mood lifting. Any change in the balance of chemicals in the brain tends to cause mood swings and depression. Prozac is sometimes prescribed together with another drug, Olanzapine for best results.
Side Effects
There are side effects that could occur with any SSRI medication. While most patients might not be affected, there are a few who suffer from side effects which could be managed if they are mild otherwise the medication will have to be relooked at. Some of the milder side effects are skin rashes, headaches, a bit of confusion, nausea and a loss of appetite. There could also be a loss of co-ordination, sweating, dry mouth, insomnia, weight changes, constipation or an upset stomach, sneezing or sore throat and drowsiness. The more serious side effects are irregular or increased heart beat, bad blistering of the skin, memory loss, hallucinations, seizures, trouble breathing – and sometimes breathing can stop – high fever and tremors and stiffening of the muscles.
Caution
Any problem or any change should be intimated immediately to the doctor. In some cases, what seems to be a mild reaction could quickly progress to become a major one so it is necessary to report it medically and follow the doctor’s advice. You must inform the doctor about your full medical history as well as any family history right in the beginning. He will also need to know if you suffer from any allergies and if you suffer from any conditions or ailments like diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure or cardiac conditions. He will also ask you if you are on any medication for these conditions. You should also remember to tell him about all the vitamins or supplements that you are taking – even if they are natural.
Contraindications
This drug is contraindicated for pregnant women and nursing mothers. It has been known to cause serious lung problems in newborn infants so it would be wise niot to take it while you are pregnant or feeding your baby. If you are on the drug, you will need to consult your doctor as to how to stop taking it before you get pregnant.