Fluoxetine (Prozac)

Question 1

What conditions is Fluoxetine licensed to treat?

Answer 1

Major depression
Bulimia Nervosa
OCD

Question 2

Dosage for depression?

Answer 2

20mg - 60mg

Recommended to start on 20mg and increase after 3-4 weeks if necessary

Question 3

How often should it be taken?

Answer 3

Once daily or as a divided dose

Question 4

For elderly patients with major depression what is the usual maximum dose?

Answer 4

40mg although up to 60mg can be used.

Question 5

What is the dose for bulimia nervosa?

Answer 5

60mg daily

40mg daily in elderly

Question 6

What is the half life of fluoxetine?

Answer 6

With time, fluoxetine and norfluoxetine inhibit their own metabolism, so fluoxetine elimination half-life changes from 1 to 3 days, after a single dose, to 4 to 6 days, after long-term use.

Question 7

Is it safe to drive whilst taking fluoxetine?

Answer 7

It has a sedative effect so caution should be exercised when driving or using machinery

Question 8

Is it advisable to drink whilst taking fluoxetine?

Answer 8

It is advisable to avoid alcohol as it will compound the sedative effect of fluoxetine.

Question 9

How long should it take to see an effect from fluoxetine?

Answer 9

2-4 weeks

Question 10

Is it safe to stop taking it suddenly?

Answer 10

Withdrawal should be tapered to avoid risk of rebound symptoms