Patient handout
Fluoxetine (Prozac)
You have been prescribed fluoxetine. This page explains what it is, what to expect, and when to call.
What it is
Fluoxetine is an SSRI antidepressant used for depression, OCD, panic disorder, bulimia, and premenstrual mood symptoms. It raises serotonin. It stays in the body longer than other SSRIs, which makes it forgiving of a missed dose and easier to stop, but it also takes a little longer to settle in.
How to take it
- Take it once a day, usually in the morning, because it can be energizing.
- With or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with breakfast.
- If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless the next dose is close. Do not double up.
- A dose increase after a few weeks is common and planned.
What to expect, and when
- Week 1 to 2: side effects, if any, come first. Some people feel more wired for a few days.
- Week 2 to 4: energy and worry often begin to improve.
- Week 4 to 8: full benefit at the right dose. OCD can take up to twelve weeks.
- Plan to stay on it for at least six to twelve months after you feel well.
Common side effects
Most fade within one to two weeks: nausea, headache, trouble sleeping, jitteriness, sweating, and reduced appetite early on. Sexual side effects can persist and are worth mentioning. Weight is usually stable or slightly lower at first.
Call the office the same day if
- New or worsening thoughts of hurting yourself, especially early on or after a dose change (uncommon but important, particularly under age 25)
- Unusual restlessness, racing thoughts, or little need for sleep
- Fever with agitation, fast heartbeat, muscle twitching, or confusion (possible serotonin syndrome)
- Unusual bruising or bleeding, especially with ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin, or a blood thinner
- Rash, swelling, or trouble breathing (call 911)
Stopping
Because fluoxetine leaves the body slowly, stopping it causes fewer withdrawal symptoms than other SSRIs. Even so, do not stop on your own. We will plan it together, and the effect of a change can take several weeks to show.
Good to know
- Fluoxetine interacts with many medicines. Tell other prescribers and your pharmacist, and check before adding tramadol, triptans, St. John's wort, or other antidepressants.
- Keep alcohol light while starting.
- If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, tell us.
Questions about this medication?
Alice Tran Psychiatric Care · 3060 Williams Drive, Suite 300, Fairfax, VA 22031
Call: (703) 791-9099 · Text: (703) 791-9031 · info@alicetrannp.com · alicetrannp.com
This handout is for education and is not a substitute for the instructions you received at your visit. Follow the dose on your prescription label. If anything here differs from what you were told, call the office. In an emergency, call 911. If you are in crisis, call or text 988.