Fluoxetine
Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Benefit develops gradually, while activation, sleep change or other adverse effects may appear earlier. Listed uses include major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and bulimia nervosa.
Key points
- New suicidal thoughts, severe agitation or a switch toward mania needs prompt assessment.
- Other serotonergic medicines can cause serotonin syndrome.
- Fluoxetine remains in the body for a long time, so interactions can continue after it is stopped.
Listings are for comparison only; suitability and supply depend on mental-health assessment, prescription, interaction and pharmacy checks.
Important safety checks
Review bipolar disorder, suicidal thoughts, seizures, bleeding risk, low sodium, liver disease, pregnancy and serotonergic medicines. It must not be combined with monoamine oxidase inhibitors.
When to seek urgent care
Seek urgent help for suicidal intent, severe agitation with fever and stiffness, a seizure, severe confusion, fainting, facial swelling or breathing difficulty.
Further reading
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