About fluoxetine hcl
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor antidepressant
Used for
- Depression
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Panic disorder
- Bulimia nervosa
Usual adult dose
Usually 20 mg once daily initially; dose may be adjusted according to condition and response.
Usual dose in children
For depression, ages 8–18: usually 10 mg once daily initially; specialist-supervised adjustment may follow. Not approved for every use in children.
Common side effects
- Nausea, diarrhoea, or reduced appetite
- Headache or sleep problems
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Sexual difficulties
Important warnings
- May increase suicidal thoughts in children and young adults, especially early in treatment.
- Do not stop suddenly without medical guidance; withdrawal symptoms may occur.
- Seek urgent help for severe agitation, fever, confusion, or muscle stiffness.
- Use cautiously with a history of seizures, bipolar disorder, or bleeding problems.
Pregnancy
Use only after weighing benefits and risks with a clinician; late-pregnancy use may affect the newborn.
Breastfeeding
Fluoxetine enters breast milk and may accumulate; discuss infant monitoring and alternatives with a clinician.
Interactions
- MAO inhibitors can cause dangerous reactions; a washout period is required.
- Other serotonergic medicines, including tramadol and St John’s wort, increase serotonin-syndrome risk.
- NSAIDs, aspirin, and anticoagulants may increase bleeding risk.
- Fluoxetine can raise levels of some medicines, including metoprolol and certain antipsychotics.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.