Medication Usage
Generic Prozac (Fluoxetine) is a psychotropic drug for oral administration used medically in the treatment of depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bulimia nervosa, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and many other disorders.
Medication Consumption
Generic Prozac is taken once or twice a day. To be effective, it should be taken regularly. Make a habit of taking it at the same time you do some other daily activity.
It may be 4 weeks before you feel any relief from your depression, but the drug's effects should last about 9 months after a 3-month treatment regimen. For obsessive-compulsive disorder, the full effect may take 5 weeks to appear.
Warnings/Cautions
Unless you are directed to do so by your doctor, do not take this medication if you are recovering from a heart attack or if you have liver disease or diabetes.
Generic Prozac may cause you to become drowsy or less alert and may affect your judgment. Therefore, driving or operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness is not recommended.
If you develop a skin rash or hives while taking Generic Prozac, discontinue use of the medication and notify your doctor immediately.
Generic Prozac should be used with caution if you have a history of seizures. You should discuss all of your medical conditions with your doctor before taking this medication. Breastfeeding is not recommended while you are taking Generic Prozac.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Generic Prozac and you remember the same day, take it as soon as possible. If you do not remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Serious Side Effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Generic Prozac.
More common side effects may include:
Abnormal dreams, abnormal ejaculation, abnormal vision, anxiety, diminished sex drive, dizziness, dry mouth, flu-like symptoms, flushing, gas, headache, impotence, insomnia, itching, loss of appetite, nausea, nervousness, rash, sinusitis, sleepiness, sore throat, sweating, tremors, upset stomach, vomiting, weakness, yawning.
Less common side effects may include:
Abnormal taste, agitation, bleeding problems, chills, confusion, ear pain, emotional instability, fever, frequent urination, high blood pressure, increased appetite, loss of memory, palpitations, ringing in the ears, sleep disorders, weight gain.
In children and adolescents, less common side effects may also include: Agitation, excessive menstrual bleeding, frequent urination, hyperactivity, mania or hypomania (inappropriate feelings of elation and/or rapid thoughts), nosebleeds, personality changes, and thirst.
A wide variety of other very rare reactions have been reported during Generic Prozac therapy. If you develop any new or unexplained symptoms, tell your doctor without delay.
Possible Overdose
An overdose of Generic Prozac can be fatal. In addition, combining Generic Prozac with certain other drugs can cause symptoms of overdose. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
Common symptoms of Generic Prozac overdose include : Nausea, rapid heartbeat, seizures, sleepiness, vomiting.
Other symptoms of Generic Prozac overdose include: Coma, delirium, fainting, high fever, irregular heartbeat, low blood pressure, mania, rigid muscles, sweating, stupor.
Special Information
Do not take with MAO inhibitors or for at least two weeks after their discontinuation. MAO inhibitor medications should not be taken for at least five weeks after discontinuing Generic Prozac. Most medications affecting the brain have the potential to slow reflexes or impair judgment and caution is advised. This medication has not been studied extensively in the US and re-evaluation periodically by your physician is advised. Check with you pharmacist when taking with other medications.
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