Your safety is our first priority. Learn more about key medication details, side effects, and other important information about your treatment.

Important Safety Information

Fluoxetine is a prescription medication used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bulimia nervosa, panic disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). It belongs to a class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Fluoxetine is commonly known by the brand name Prozac®.

Fluoxetine should only be used under the supervision of a licensed healthcare provider.

Do not take Fluoxetine if you:

• Are currently taking or have recently taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
• Are taking thioridazine or pimozide
• Are allergic to fluoxetine or any of its ingredients

Warnings and Precautions:

• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors may occur, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults. Monitor closely when starting treatment or adjusting the dose.
• Serotonin syndrome may occur, especially when used with other serotonergic drugs. Symptoms include agitation, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, fever, nausea, vomiting, and muscle rigidity.
• May cause QT prolongation (a serious heart rhythm condition), particularly in individuals with existing heart conditions or those taking other QT-prolonging medications.
• Use caution in patients with liver or kidney impairment, seizure disorders, diabetes, or bipolar disorder.
• May impair judgment or coordination. Avoid operating heavy machinery or driving until you know how the medication affects you.

Possible Side Effects

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:

• Seizures
• Irregular heartbeat, chest pain, or fainting
• Severe dizziness or confusion
• Thoughts of suicide or self-harm
• Allergic reactions such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing
• Signs of serotonin syndrome (e.g., agitation, hallucinations, fever, muscle stiffness, tremors)

Common Side Effects May Include:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)
• Fatigue or drowsiness
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Dry mouth
• Loss of appetite or weight changes
• Sexual side effects (e.g., decreased libido, delayed orgasm)

Before Taking Fluoxetine, Tell Your Healthcare Provider If You:

• Have a history of bipolar disorder, mania, or suicidal thoughts
• Have heart problems, seizures, liver or kidney disease
• Have diabetes
• Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
• Drink alcohol or use recreational drugs

Drug Interactions

Tell your provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking, especially:

• Other SSRIs or antidepressants
• MAO inhibitors (e.g., phenelzine, tranylcypromine)
• Antipsychotics (e.g., thioridazine, pimozide)
• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin)
• NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Triptans, lithium, tramadol, or St. John’s Wort

Administration & Storage:

• Take fluoxetine exactly as prescribed, with or without food.
• It may take several weeks to feel the full benefit. Do not stop taking the medication suddenly.
• Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep out of reach of children.

If you experience side effects or have questions about your medication, contact your healthcare provider immediately. Never stop fluoxetine without consulting your doctor, as sudden discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms.