Fluoxetine, the generic version of Prozac, is part of the SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) group of drugs which affect the chemicals in the brain. Fluoxetine is used to treat depression, panic disorders, anxiety, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Fluoxetine can also be used to treat various disorders like bulimia nervosa, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder, as well as other conditions where your doctor feels Fluoxetine would alleviate the symptoms. If you have been prescribed with Fluoxetine, you will do well to follow these reminders:



1.Stick to your doctor's instructions when taking Fluoxetine.

This means not taking any dosage higher than what was prescribed by your doctor. If you have been prescribed a daily dose of 80mg, you should not take several Fluoxetine doses higher than 80mg. Fluoxetine affect brain chemicals and going beyond the prescribed dose will not speed up your recovery but rather cause your condition to worsen. In addition, this also means that you should not take Fluoxetine a day longer or shorter than the prescribed treatment period. It may take several days before the effects of Fluoxetine manifest themselves so do not stop taking them until you have consulted your doctor about the apparent inefficacy of Fluoxetine on your condition.

2.Come up with a Fluoxetine intake schedule and follow it.

Fluoxetine works best when taken at the same time daily. Come up with a schedule for your Fluoxetine intake and stick to it. This way, your body's system can adjust to the introduction of the chemicals and minimize the intensity of side effects. Also, you are less likely to forget your medication if you have it on schedule. You can also try using pill boxes labeled with dates so you know if you have taken your Fluoxetine dose for the day. Just do not forget to refill your pill box every week to ensure maximum benefit.

3.Swallow Fluoxetine pills whole.

Fluoxetine pills are designed as time-release capsules. This means that the chemicals are released in your system gradually instead of all at once. So if you are prescribed to take a Fluoxetine 5mg pill daily, do not get one in a higher dose and split it. Splitting, breaking, chewing, or crushing the pill can cause too much of the chemicals to flood your system and induce severe side effects or overdose.

4.Use a measuring device if taking liquid Fluoxetine.

Although more popular in its capsule form, Fluoxetine is also available as liquid for people who cannot tolerate taking pills. If using liquid Fluoxetine, it is better if you use a measuring device like a spoon or a medicine cup. Using a measuring device ensures that you are taking the right dosage. If you do not have a medicine cup or spoon, you can ask your pharmacist for one.

5.Keep Fluoxetine at room temperature.

Intense heat and exposure to moisture can cause Fluoxetine to discolor and change. Keep Fluoxetine at a dry and safe place away from light and moisture. Also, avoid freezing liquid Fluoxetine. A medicine cabinet placed out of children's reach is an ideal place to keep Fluoxetine safe.