FLUOXETINE

Question 1

What is fluoxetine indicated for?

Answer 1

Major depression
Bulimia nervoxa
OCD
Menopausal symptoms particularly hot flushes in women with breast cancer except those taking tamoxifen

Question 2

What is the dose of fluxetine used in major depression?

Answer 2

Initially 20 mg daily, dose is increased after 3–4 weeks if necessary, and at appropriate intervals thereafter, daily dose may be administered as a single or divided dose; maximum 60 mg per day.

Question 3

What is the drug class of Fluoxetine?

Answer 3

selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Question 4

What are the common side effect of Fluoxetine

Answer 4

Chills; feeling abnormal; postmenopausal haemorrhage; uterine disorder; vasodilation; vision blurred

Question 5

What are the uncommon side effects of Fluoxetine?

Answer 5

Cold sweat; dysphagia; dyspnoea; hypotension; mood altered; muscle twitching; self-injurious behaviour; temperature sensation altered; thinking abnormal

Question 6

What should pharmacists lookout for when patients take Fluoxetine?
A

Answer 6

should monitor patients for signs of adverse reactions such as suicidal thoughts and serotonin syndrome. They should also be aware of potential drug interactions and counsel patients on the importance of adhering to the dosing schedule. To minimize the risk of adverse effects, patients should be advised to take the medication in the morning to prevent insomnia and avoid alcohol and other medications that can interact with Fluoxetine.

Question 7

State MHRA advise for all patients on SSRIS

Answer 7

SSRI/SNRI antidepressant medicines: small increased risk of postpartum haemorrhage when used in the month before delivery as there are known to increase the risk of bleeding

Question 8

SSRIs is contraindicated in….

Answer 8

Poorly controlled epilepsy; SSRIs should not be used if the patient enters a manic phase