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Antidepressants are a class of drugs that reduce symptoms of depressive disorders by correcting chemical imbalances of neurotransmitters in the brain. Chemical imbalances may be responsible for changes in mood and behavior.
Neurotransmitters are vital, as they are the communication link between nerve cells in the brain. Neurotransmitters reside within vesicles found in nerve cells, which are released by one nerve and taken up by other nerves. Neurotransmitters not taken up by other nerves are taken up by the same nerves that released them. This process is called "reuptake." The prevalent neurotransmitters in the brain specific to depression are serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine (also called noradrenaline).
In general, antidepressants work by inhibiting the reuptake of specific neurotransmitters, hence increasing their levels around the nerves within the brain, such...
Pharmacy Editor: Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD
Prozac (fluoxetine) is an oral drug used for treating depression, bulimia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). It is in a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). A generic formulation is available. Prozac may cause nausea, headaches, anxiety, insomnia, drowsiness, and loss of appetite. Some patients may experience withdrawal reactions such nausea, nervousness, and insomnia upon stopping Prozac.
The recommended dose of Prozac is 10-80 mg daily. Prozac should not be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI) (for example, isocarboxazid [Marplan)]. Prozac should not be administered for at least 14 days after stopping and MAOIs should not be administered for at least 5 weeks after Prozac has been stopped. Use of Prozac during the third trimester of pregnancy may lead to adverse effects in the newborn. Prozac is excreted in breast milk.
Our Prozac Drug Center provides a comprehensive view of available drug information as well as related drugs, user reviews, supplements and disease and conditions.
What is Prescribing information?
The FDA package insert formatted in easy-to-find categories for health professionals and clinicians.
PROZAC (fluoxetine hcl) ® is indicated for the acute and maintenance treatment of Major Depressive Disorder in adult patients and in pediatric patients aged 8 to 18 years [see Clinical Studies].
The usefulness of the drug in adult and pediatric patients receiving fluoxetine for extended periods, should periodically be reevaluated [see DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION].
PROZAC (fluoxetine hcl) is indicated for the acute and maintenance treatment of obsessions and compulsions...
Read the complete drug monograph for Prozac »
Drug Description - Indications & Dosage - Side Effects & Drug Interactions - Warnings & Precautions - Contraindications - Medication Guide and More
What is Patient information?
Easy-to-read and understand detailed drug information and pill images for the patient or caregiver from Cerner Multum.
Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: skin rash or hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Call your doctor at once if you have any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.
Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
u...Read the complete patient information for Prozac »
Possible Side Effects - Images - What Is - How Should I Take It - What If I Miss a Dose - What Should I Avoid and More
What is Consumer information?
A concise overview of the drug for the patient or caregiver from First DataBank.
This medication may improve your mood, sleep, appetite, and energy level and may help restore your interest in daily living. It may decrease fear, anxiety, unwanted thoughts, and the number of panic attacks. It may also reduce the urge to perform repeated tasks (compulsions such as hand-washing, counting, and checking) that interfere with daily living. Fluoxetine may lessen premenstrual sympto...
Read the complete consumer information for Prozac »
Warnings - Uses - How to Use - Side Effects - Precautions - Drug Interactions and More
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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