Fluoxetine is a drug prescribed by doctors for treating depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and bulimia nervosa. Fluoxetine is one of the drugs belonging to a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Often people wonder about the impact of this drug on a healthy individual, and it is important to understand how fluoxetine works.

Product Information

Generic Name

Fluoxetine

Drug Classification

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)

Dosage Form and Strength

• 20 mg capsule
• Fluoxetine 40 mg capsule
• Fluoxetine 60 mg tablet

Storing

• At room temperature.
• Away from heat and moisture.
• Away from reach of children.

What Occurs in Case a Healthy Individual Takes Fluoxetine?

For an individual who does not suffer from any mental health issues, there will be no effect of fluoxetine. However, a person might experience the following side effects of fluoxetine:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Disrupted sleep
• Dry mouth
• Increased sweating
• Nervousness
• Loss of appetite
• Sexual side effects

An intake  of fluoxetine 60 mg without medical supervision can result in some side effects. This drug works on serotonin levels in the brain, and any unnecessary change in them can have a negative impact on health.

Why Have I Been Given Fluoxetine?

There are different health conditions which doctors prescribe fluoxetine for, such as:

• Major depressive disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Panic disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
• Bulimia nervosa

Fluoxetine 60 mg tablets can be prescribed to those patients who need higher doses of this medication. Do not deviate from instructions of your physician when taking this drug.

What Should I Take into Consideration Before Starting Fluoxetine Treatment?

Let your physician know about your medical condition before you start taking this medicine if you have any of these disorders:

• Liver disease
• Kidney disease
• Epilepsy/Seizures
• Bipolar disorder
• Diabetes
• If you are pregnant/breastfeeding
• You had or have suicidal thoughts

Fluoxetine may have drug interactions or interactions with some illnesses. Your doctor will need to know your medical history fully before giving you fluoxetine 60 mg tablets or fluoxetine 40 mg capsules.

What If I am Taking Other Drugs?

Medication interactions can impact the efficiency of your treatment and cause more side effects. 

• MAOIs
• Blood thinners
• NSAIDs such as ibuprofen
• Migraine drugs
• Tramadol
• Lithium
• Antidepressants

Using these medicines alongside fluoxetine 60 mg will put you at higher risk for developing serotonin syndrome, which is a serious illness that requires immediate medical help.

How Should I Take Fluoxetine?

Follow your doctor's directions precisely while taking fluoxetine.

Usual Doses

• Fluoxetine 20 mg: Typical starting dosage.
• Fluoxetine 40 mg capsules: Prescribed if further symptom relief is required.
• Fluoxetine 60 mg tablets: Prescribed in case of OCD or bulimia nervosa and some types of anxiety disorders.

Instructions

• Use once daily, regardless of food intake.
• Capsules and tablets should be swallowed whole.
• Do not abruptly stop taking without consulting your physician.

It may take from 4 to 6 weeks for the medication's full benefits to be evident.

What Should I Remember While Taking Fluoxetine?

During the course of fluoxetine 60 mg tablet treatment, remember:

• Stick to the prescribed regimen.
• Abstain from consuming alcohol if possible.
• Pay special attention to changes in your mood state.
• Do not stop the treatment suddenly.
• Attend scheduled visits with your doctor regularly.

Some patients develop worsening depression or thoughts of suicide within the first couple of weeks of taking this drug. If such symptoms appear, seek prompt professional help immediately.

Are There Any Side Effects?

As any medication does, fluoxetine might have side effects too.

Common Side Effects

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Insomnia
• Headache
• Anxiety
• Dry mouth
• Loss of appetite
• Sweating

Serious Side Effects

Contact your physician if you suffer from:

• Allergic reactions
• Suicide ideation
• Bleeding
• Seizures
• Serotonin syndrome
• Heart palpitations
• Rashes

Side effects usually go away once your body gets used to the treatment.

Can a Healthy Individual Be Benefited from Fluoxetine?

It is not advisable to take fluoxetine in an attempt to boost one's mood and performance, especially in people who do not have mental conditions. There are no advantages that come from taking fluoxetine 60 mg when it is not needed, but there are side effects that could affect you.

FAQ

1. Can fluoxetine be taken by a person who is not sick?

A person who does not have either depression or anxiety does not need fluoxetine and can have negative effects from this medicine.

2. How quickly does fluoxetine start working?

Most patients notice positive effects from fluoxetine in 2 to 4 weeks, whereas full effectiveness may appear in 4 to 6 weeks.

3. How much does fluoxetine 40 mg cost in the USA?

On average, the price for fluoxetine 40 mg in the USA is $10 - $30 per month depending on the pharmacy prices and insurance policies.

4. Are fluoxetine 40 mg capsule and Prozac the same?

Yes, Prozac is the branded name of fluoxetine 40 mg capsule.

Conclusion

Fluoxetine is one of the most commonly used antidepressants that help numerous patients overcome their depressive symptoms, anxiety, OCD and other disorders. The fluoxetine 60 mg dosage should be taken only under the guidance of a medical specialist. Those who do not need fluoxetine will not be able to benefit from it but will face side effects instead.