WARNING

Prozac Weekly is a brand name for fluoxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly prescribed to treat depression, panic disorder, and other mental health conditions. Like any medication, Prozac Weekly carries certain risks and side effects. It’s important to note that individual responses to medication can vary, and the information provided here is general. If you are considering or currently taking Prozac Weekly, it’s crucial to discuss your specific situation with your healthcare provider.

• Side Effects: Common side effects of Prozac Weekly may include nausea, insomnia, headache, drowsiness, and sexual dysfunction. These side effects can vary in severity and may subside over time as your body adjusts to the medication.
• Serotonin Syndrome: SSRI medications like Prozac can, in rare cases, lead to serotonin syndrome. This condition occurs when there is an excess of serotonin in the brain and can cause symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, fever, and severe muscle stiffness. It is a medical emergency and requires immediate attention.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Abruptly stopping Prozac Weekly can lead to withdrawal symptoms, including dizziness, headache, nausea, irritability, and sleep disturbances. It’s important to taper off the medication under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
• Suicidal Thoughts: In some cases, antidepressants like Prozac may be associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in young adults and adolescents. Close monitoring by healthcare providers is essential, especially when starting or adjusting the dosage of the medication.
• Allergic Reactions: While rare, allergic reactions to fluoxetine can occur. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Drug Interactions: Prozac Weekly may interact with other medications, potentially affecting their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or making any changes to your medication regimen. They can provide personalized guidance based on your health history and individual needs.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Prozac Weekly is a brand name for a delayed-release formulation of fluoxetine, which is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Fluoxetine is commonly prescribed to treat various mental health conditions, primarily depression, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bulimia nervosa, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

How should this medicine be used?

Prozac Weekly is specifically designed to be taken once a week, providing a more convenient dosing option compared to the daily dosing of traditional fluoxetine formulations. The delayed-release nature of Prozac Weekly helps maintain a steady concentration of the medication in the blood over an extended period. Here are general guidelines for using Prozac Weekly:

• Dosage: The recommended starting dose is usually 90 mg once weekly. Your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage based on your individual response to the medication.
• Administration: Take Prozac Weekly exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. It is typically taken in the morning, with or without food.
• Swallow Whole: The Prozac Weekly capsule should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or broken. Breaking the capsule may lead to a quicker release of the medication, which can affect its efficacy.
• Consistency: Try to take Prozac Weekly on the same day each week to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your system.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time of your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Duration: Continue taking Prozac Weekly as directed by your healthcare provider, even if you start feeling better. Suddenly stopping the medication without consulting your healthcare provider can lead to withdrawal symptoms.

It’s important to note that individual responses to medication can vary, and your healthcare provider will determine the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment based on your specific condition and needs. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and promptly report any unusual or severe side effects. If you have any concerns or questions about Prozac Weekly, consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Other uses for this medicine

Prozac Weekly, like other forms of fluoxetine, is primarily prescribed for the following conditions:

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

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Prozac Weekly, it’s crucial to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and inform them about your medical history and any other medications or supplements you are taking. Here are some general precautions:

• Suicidal Thoughts: Antidepressants, including Prozac, may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in young adults and adolescents. Close monitoring is essential, especially during the initial weeks of treatment or when there are dosage adjustments.
• Allergic Reactions: If you have a history of allergic reactions to fluoxetine or any of its components, inform your healthcare provider. Allergic reactions can be serious and may require immediate medical attention.
• Serotonin Syndrome: Be aware of the symptoms of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur with SSRIs like Prozac. Symptoms include confusion, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, fever, and muscle stiffness. Seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, especially if you have a history of seizures, bipolar disorder, liver or kidney problems, or a bleeding disorder.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of Prozac with your healthcare provider. The medication may pass into breast milk.

Always take Prozac Weekly as prescribed and do not make any changes to your dosage or treatment plan without consulting your healthcare provider. Regular follow-up appointments are important to monitor your response to the medication and address any concerns or side effects.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions associated with Prozac Weekly. However, it’s generally advisable to maintain a healthy and balanced diet. Some individuals may experience changes in appetite as a side effect of Prozac, so it’s essential to be mindful of any significant changes in weight or eating habits. If you have concerns or experience appetite changes, discuss them with your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Prozac Weekly, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Prozac Weekly (fluoxetine) may cause various side effects, and individual responses can vary. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and some may be temporary or diminish over time as your body adjusts to the medication. If you are prescribed Prozac Weekly, it’s crucial to discuss potential side effects with your healthcare provider. Common side effects may include:

• Nausea: Feeling queasy or experiencing an upset stomach is a common side effect, especially when first starting the medication. Taking Prozac with food may help alleviate this symptom.
• Insomnia or Sleep Disturbances: Some individuals may experience difficulty falling asleep or changes in their sleep patterns.
• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect reported by some individuals taking Prozac.
• Drowsiness: On the other hand, some people may feel drowsy or fatigued, especially during the initial weeks of treatment.
• Sexual Dysfunction: Prozac, like other SSRIs, may cause sexual side effects, including decreased libido, difficulty achieving or maintaining an erection (in men), or difficulty reaching orgasm.
• Weight Changes: Some individuals may experience changes in appetite and weight while taking Prozac. This can result in weight loss or, less commonly, weight gain.
• Dry Mouth: A dry or cottonmouth sensation may occur.
• Sweating: Increased sweating, especially during sleep, has been reported as a side effect.
• Nervousness or Anxiety: In some cases, Prozac may contribute to feelings of nervousness or increased anxiety.
• Diarrhea or Constipation: Changes in bowel habits, such as diarrhea or constipation, can occur.
• Dizziness: Some individuals may experience dizziness, especially when changing positions quickly.

It’s important to report any unusual or severe side effects to your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, contact your healthcare provider if you experience symptoms of serotonin syndrome, which is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition associated with the use of SSRIs. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include confusion, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, fever, and muscle stiffness.

Remember that everyone reacts differently to medications, and not everyone will experience these side effects. Your healthcare provider can help assess the potential risks and benefits of Prozac Weekly based on your individual health profile.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Prozac Weekly:

• Storage: Store Prozac Weekly (fluoxetine) at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep it in its original packaging, and avoid storing it in the bathroom. Follow any specific storage instructions provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
• Keep Away from Children and Pets: Keep Prozac Weekly out of reach of children and pets. Accidental ingestion can be harmful.
• Disposal: Dispose of expired or unused medication properly. Do not flush Prozac down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so. Consult with your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility to learn about proper medication disposal methods.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek emergency medical attention or contact your local poison control center immediately. Symptoms of a Prozac overdose may include:

• Seizures
• Extreme drowsiness
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Unexplained muscle stiffness or weakness
• Fainting
• Loss of consciousness

What other information should I know?

• Follow Healthcare Provider’s Instructions: Take Prozac Weekly exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not change the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Regular Monitoring: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and discuss any concerns or side effects.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Prozac, as it may intensify certain side effects and can interact with the medication.
• Inform Healthcare Provider: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Avoid Driving or Operating Machinery: Until you know how Prozac affects you, avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.
• Medical Alert Bracelet: If you have any medical conditions, such as epilepsy, that may be relevant in case of an emergency, consider wearing a medical alert bracelet to inform healthcare providers about your specific situation.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and information regarding your specific circumstances. If you have any questions or concerns about Prozac Weekly, your healthcare provider is the best source of guidance.