Fluoxetine: Mechanism of Action and Uses

Fluoxetine is a medication classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bulimia nervosa, and panic disorder. It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, thereby improving mood and reducing anxiety.
Category
Drug
Where to get
Obtainable through healthcare providers like psychiatrists and general practitioners with a prescription
Applicable for
Prepared by Nick Harper, reviewed by Dr. David James Simpson

Fluoxetine FAQ


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What is fluoxetine used for?

Fluoxetine is a type of antidepressant known as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It's often used to treat depression, and sometimes obsessive compulsive disorder and bulimia. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is thought to have a good influence on mood, emotion and sleep.

Is fluoxetine a SSRI?

Last updated on Dec 8, 2022. What is fluoxetine? Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant. Fluoxetine inhibits the uptake of serotonin by a nerve cells (neurons) and helps people with depression, panic, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive symptoms.

Is fluoxetine a good antidepressant?

Serotonin is thought to have a good influence on mood, emotion and sleep. Fluoxetine helps many people recover from depression, and it has fewer side effects than some other antidepressants. Fluoxetine is available only on prescription.

Does fluoxetine have side effects?

With the right dosage, fluoxetine can help manage symptoms and improve overall quality of life. Fluoxetine, commonly known as Prozac, is a medication used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. While it can be an effective treatment option, like all medications, it may come with side effects.

What are the side effects of fluoxetine?

Fluoxetine may cause serious side effects. Call your doctor at once if you have: blurred vision, tunnel vision, eye pain or swelling, or seeing halos around lights; fast or pounding heartbeats, fluttering in your chest, shortness of breath, and sudden dizziness (like you might pass out);

Fluoxetine References

If you want to know more about Fluoxetine, consider exploring links below:

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