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What is Fluoxetine?
Fluoxetine is an antidepressant medication that belongs to the Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitor (SRRI) class. It is more commonly known by its brand name, Prozac. Fluoxetine prevents the neurotransmitter serotonin released from pre-synaptic cells in the brain from returning to the releasing cells (re-uptake) to increase the chances of post-synaptic cells absorbing the said neurotransmitters. Serotonin is the neurotransmitter mainly associated with regulating appetite, sexuality, mood, sleep, vomiting, body temperature and emotions such as anger and aggression. In order for these human processes to take effect, a certain amount or level of serotonin should be absorbed by post-synaptic cells from releasing pre-synaptics cells. Frequent or constant lack of serotonin absorption may cause certain mental and physical health problems.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Using Prozac
Fluoxetine, the generic name of Prozac, at present is reported to be one of the most widely-used anti-depressants available in the market. Anti-depressant medications work in various ways in response to health problems. The physiological processes involved in treatment using the said medications are also the basis used for their classification. In the case of Fluoxetine, it prevents the released serotonin from returning to their presynaptic cells, thus, it is classified under anti-depressant medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SRRI). Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in the brain responsible for regulating body temperature, sleep, appetite, sexuality, mood, vomiting, and certain emotions such as anger and aggression. In order for this certain substance to successfully elicit the said reactions and emotions, enough amount of serotonin should be absorbed by the post-synaptic cells. However, due to the re-uptake or returning of serotonin to the pre-synaptic cells, most post-synaptic cells are not able to receive the required amount to cause certain reactions to occur. If the re-uptake of serotonin happens frequently or continuously to any individual, this may cause him or her to experience health problems such as depression, migraine, irritable bowel syndrome, anxiety disorders, and bipolar disorder. It is, therefore, necessary to prevent serotonin re-uptake through medications such as Fluoxetine to treat the said health problems.
How is Fluoxetine used?
Fluoxetine is a medication taken orally. This drug is available in three various dosages: 10mg, 20mg and 40mg tablets. Usual prescriptions of Fluoxetine requires it to be taken once every morning, however, dosage schedule and frequency depending on an individual's condition and as deemed appropriate by a physician. Only take this medicinal drug exactly as directed by a doctor. Termination of medication should also be determined by a doctor and usage should not be stopped unless told to do so. It usually takes four weeks of continuous use of Fluoxetine before it becomes fully beneficial.
Fluoxetine Dosage
FLUOXETINE is taken orally once daily, usually in the morning, with or without meals or as prescribed by your doctor. Dosage may vary based on your medical condition. Always remember to take exactly as prescribed. It takes about 4 weeks before the full benefit will take effect. However, it is important to continue medication even if you feel well prior to the end of dosage schedule. Always consult your doctor when to start or discontinue using this medication.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION IS INTENDED TO SUPPLEMENT, NOT AS SUBSTITUTE FOR, THE EXPERTISE AND JUDGMENT OF YOUR PHYSICIAN, PHARMACIST OR OTHER HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS. IT SHOULD NOT BE CONSTRUED TO INDICATE THAT THE USE OF THE DRUG IS SAFE, APPROPRIATE, OR EFFECTIVE FOR YOU. CONSULT YOUR HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONAL BEFORE USING FLUOXETINE. |