Fluoxetine

How is Fluoxetine dosed?

The dosage of fluoxetine varies depending on the patient's medical condition, age, and the doctor's prescription. The average doses for different formulations of fluoxetine are as follows:

• For bulimia nervosa: Adults - 60 mg once a day in the morning. Children - Dose determined by the doctor.

• For depression: Adults - Initially 20 mg once a day in the morning. Dose may be adjusted as needed. Maximum dose is usually 80 mg per day. Children 8 years and older - Initially 10 or 20 mg once a day in the morning. Dose may be adjusted as needed. Children younger than 8 years - Dose determined by the doctor.

• For depression associated with bipolar disorder (combination with olanzapine): Adults - Initial dose is usually 20 mg once daily, maximum dose is generally 80 mg per day. Dose may be adjusted by the doctor based on response and side effects. Follow doctor's instructions and prescription label.

What is the dosage form of Fluoxetine?

Fluoxetine is available in the following oral dosage forms: capsules, delayed-release capsules, pulvules, and solution. The specific dosage and administration depend on the medical condition, age, and individual factors. Follow the instructions of a healthcare professional and the information on the label or prescription.

What medications are contraindication with Fluoxetine?

Fluoxetine should not be used with thioridazine (Mellaril) and pimozide (Orap) due to the risk of serious heart problems. It should also not be taken with buspirone (Buspar), fentanyl (Abstral, Duragesic), lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid), tryptophan, St. John's wort, amphetamines, or certain pain or migraine medicines (e.g., rizatriptan, sumatriptan, tramadol, Frova, Imitrex, Maxalt, Relpax, Ultram, Zomig) as it can cause serotonin syndrome. Consult with a doctor before taking any other medicines with fluoxetine.

How is Fluoxetine administered?

Fluoxetine can be taken with or without food. The dosage and frequency of administration depend on the medical condition and the doctor's prescription. It may take a month or longer to notice improvement. When using the oral liquid, shake the bottle well before measuring each dose with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup. Do not use a regular household teaspoon for measuring.

What are common precautions when taking Fluoxetine?

Common precautions when taking fluoxetine include:

1. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label.
2. Take fluoxetine with or without food.
3. Be cautious if you are an elderly patient, as you may be more likely to have low sodium in the blood.
4. Consult your healthcare professional before taking the medication if you are breastfeeding.
5. Be aware of potential drug interactions and side effects, such as flushing or redness of the skin, frequent urination, hair loss, increased sensitivity to sunlight, stomach cramps, and weight loss.

Report any unusual side effects to your doctor or the FDA.