FLUOXERA™

Class:

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI)

Forms:

Tablets (10 mg, 20 mg), Capsules, Oral Solution

Mechanism of Action:

Fluoxetine selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) in the brain, increasing serotonin levels at the synaptic cleft, thereby improving mood, emotional stability, and behavior.

 Usual Adult Dosage:

• Depression / OCD: 20 mg once daily, may be increased gradually (max 60 mg/day)
• Panic Disorder: Start with 10 mg/day; usual range 20–60 mg/day
• Bulimia Nervosa: 60 mg/day

Doses should be adjusted based on patient response and tolerability.

Indications:

• Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
• Panic Disorder
• Bulimia Nervosa
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
• Anxiety disorders (off-label)

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Gastritis
• Insomnia
• Sexual dysfunction
• Weight changes (usually loss early in treatment)

 Warnings & Precautions:

• Suicidal thoughts (especially in adolescents and young adults)
• Risk of Serotonin Syndrome when combined with other serotonergic drugs
• QT prolongation at higher doses
• Withdrawal symptoms if stopped abruptly
• Avoid with MAO inhibitors (at least 14-day gap required)

Half-Life Advantage:

Fluoxetine has a long half-life (2–4 days; active metabolite ~7–15 days), allowing:

• Once-daily dosing
• Lower risk of withdrawal effects compared to other SSRIs