Uses of Fluoxentine

Fluoxetine is a psychotropic drug. So, it is not just used for the medical treatment of depression but it is also used to treat other disorders, such as bulimia nervosa, obsessive-compulsive disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

The drug taken orally, usually once or twice daily. It should be taken regularly for the patient to experience its full effects. Fluoxetine should be taken for about 4 weeks before the patient can experience some relief. The effects can last for about 9 months if the patient is treated for 3 months. Obsessive-compulsive patients may feel the full effect in 5weeks’ time.

Safety Guidelines & Possible Side Effects

Generally, Fluoxetine is not taken by patients who are recovering from a heart attack or who have diabetes or a liver disease. The doctor will ultimately decide whether the patient can still take the drug. If you experience allergic symptoms, such as a skin rash or hives, you should discontinue the drug and immediately inform your doctor about what happened. You should also inform your doctor if you have a history of seizures, are pregnant or are breastfeeding. The effects on pregnancy and breast milk are not yet known.

There are many possible psychological and physical side effects associated with Fluoxetine. Whatever you experience, however, you should immediately consult your doctor. He will tell you whether you should continue the treatment or not. Some of the common side effects include, abnormal dreams, sexual problems, blurry vision, dry mouth, flu-like symptoms, headache, insomnia, loss of appetite, nervousness, bleeding and emotional instability. There are many others.

Missed Dose

Because you should not double dose on Fluoxetine, you should only take your missed dose of the next schedule dose is still hours away.

Storage

Keep Fluoxetine in a dry place at temperatures of 20-25 degrees C (68-77 F).

Overdose

An overdose of Fluoxetine can be life-threatening. Call the hospital immediately if you suspect it, hopefully in its early stages. Signs of overdose may include seizures, palpitations, high fever, delirium, sweating, rigid muscles, sleepiness, nausea and coma.

More Information

Within two weeks after stopping your Fluoxetine treatment, do not take MAO inhibitors. It would be better yet if you take a MAO inhibitor five weeks after Fluoxetine discontinuation.