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PROZAC
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Prozac is a drug used medically in the treatment of depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bulimia nervosa, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and many other disorders. It is a psychotropic drug for oral administration.
How Taken
Prozac usually is taken once or twice a day. To be effective, it should be taken regularly. Make a habit of taking it at the same time you do some other daily activity. It may be 4 weeks before you feel any relief from your depression, but the drug's effects should last about 9 months after a 3-month treatment regimen. For obsessive-compulsive disorder, the full effect may take 5 weeks to appear.
Warnings/Precautions
Unless you are directed to do so by your doctor, do not take this medication if you are recovering from a heart attack or if you have liver disease or diabetes. Prozac may cause you to become drowsy or less alert and may affect your judgment. Therefore, driving or operating dangerous machinery or participating in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness is not recommended. While taking this medication, you may feel dizzy or light-headed or actually faint when getting up from a lying or sitting position. If getting up slowly doesn't help or if this problem continues, notify your doctor. If you develop a skin rash or hives while taking Prozac, discontinue use of the medication and notify your doctor immediately. Prozac should be used with caution if you have a history of seizures. You should discuss all of your medical conditions with your doctor before taking this medication. Prozac can occasionally cause decreased appetite and weight loss, especially in depressed people who are already underweight and in those with bulimia. If you notice changes in your weight or appetite, tell your doctor. The effects of Prozac during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately. This medication appears in breast milk, and breastfeeding is not recommended while you are taking Prozac.
Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of Prozac and you remember the same day, take it as soon as possible. If you do not remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Possible Side Effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Prozac.
More common side effects may include:
Abnormal dreams, abnormal ejaculation, abnormal vision, anxiety, diminished sex drive, dizziness, dry mouth, flu-like symptoms, flushing, gas, headache, impotence, insomnia, itching, loss of appetite, nausea, nervousness, rash, sinusitis, sleepiness, sore throat, sweating, tremors, upset stomach, vomiting, weakness, yawning.
Less common side effects may include:
Abnormal taste, agitation, bleeding problems, chills, confusion, ear pain, emotional instability, fever, frequent urination, high blood pressure, increased appetite, loss of memory, palpitations, ringing in the ears, sleep disorders, weight gain.
In children and adolescents, less common side effects may also include Agitation, excessive menstrual bleeding, frequent urination, hyperactivity, mania or hypomania (inappropriate feelings of elation and/or rapid thoughts), nosebleeds, personality changes, and thirst.
A wide variety of other very rare reactions have been reported during Prozac therapy. If you develop any new or unexplained symptoms, tell your doctor without delay.
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