Fluoxetine capsules are an oral medication used to treat mental health disorders such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and panic or anxiety. The drug belongs to a class of medication known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which prevent serotonin from being removed from the neurotransmitters. Serotonin is a brain chemical which plays a role in mood and appetite. Fluoxetine capsules are sold under various brand names and might be sold in combination with olanzapine. The types of fluoxetine capsules also can be categorized by their dosage, which generally is 10, 15, 20 or 25 milligrams, and delayed-release capsules are available as well.
Since becoming available in the late 1980s, fluoxetine primarily has been used for the treating depression in adults and children more than 8 years old, treating OCD in adults and children older than 7, treating the eating disorder bulimia nervosa in adults, treating premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and treating panic disorder in adults. In addition to being available in capsule form, it also can be found in tablets, oral suspensions, syrups and solutions.
Potential side effects of fluoxetine include decreased appetite, sexual problems, dry mouth, sleepiness, tremors and abnormal bleeding. Other common side effects include headache, upset stomach, tiredness, nervousness and dizziness. In many jurisdictions, fluoxetine capsules are available only by prescription from a licensed medical professional.
Fluoxetine also can interact with a wide range of medications, so it is important for its use to be coordinated through a physician or pharmacist. Any patient who is taking fluoxetine should make his or her physician aware of any other medications that are being taken. In addition, patients should follow all recommended procedures for taking fluoxetine and for storing the medicine, such as storing it at room temperature or in a dark place, if necessary..
When fluoxetine is used for the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder in adult women, it might be taken every day or only during certain days of a woman’s monthly cycle. For example, a physician might prescribe it to be taken starting 14 days before the anticipated onset of menstruation and ending on the first full day of menses. When combined with olanzapine, the dosage of fluoxetine typically is about four times the amount of olanzapine in the capsule.