Fluoxetine important information

Fluoxetine is a prescription medication classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is commonly prescribed to treat depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and other mental health conditions. As with all prescription medications, fluoxetine may not be appropriate for everyone. For full prescribing information, view the drug label information.

Before using fluoxetine, what should I tell my doctor?

Before starting fluoxetine, tell your healthcare provider all relevant medical information, including but not limited to:

• • Bipolar disorder or a history of mania or hypomania
  • Liver disease
  • Heart rhythm problems or prolonged QT interval
  • Bleeding disorders or easy bruising
  • Low sodium levels (hyponatremia)
  • Glaucoma (especially narrow-angle glaucoma)
  • Seizure disorders or epilepsy
• All medications you are currently taking or plan to take, including:
• • Prescription medications
  • Over-the-counter drugs
  • Vitamins and supplements
  • Herbal products (especially St. John’s wort)
  • Other antidepressants or psychiatric medications
• Any history of allergic reactions to fluoxetine or other SSRIs
• If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding
• • Fluoxetine may carry risks during pregnancy or breastfeeding and should be discussed carefully with your provider.
• If you have thoughts of self-harm or suicide, or a history of suicidal behavior
• If you consume alcohol or use recreational drugs, as these may interact with fluoxetine

What are some of the side effects of this drug?

Some side effects of fluoxetine are common and often mild, especially when starting treatment or adjusting doses. These may include:

• Nausea or upset stomach
• Diarrhea
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Trouble sleeping or insomnia
• Anxiety, nervousness, or restlessness
• Sweating
• Decreased appetite or weight changes
• Sexual side effects (such as decreased libido or difficulty with arousal or orgasm)

Many of these effects improve over time. If any side effect becomes bothersome or does not go away, contact your healthcare provider.

What are side effects I should call my doctor about right away?

Contact your healthcare provider immediately or seek urgent medical care if you experience any of the following:

• New or worsening depression, anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, or irritability
• Thoughts about suicide or self-harm
• Signs of serotonin syndrome, which may include:
• • High fever
  • Confusion
  • Rapid heart rate
  • Muscle stiffness or twitching
  • Heavy sweating
  • Diarrhea
• Severe allergic reactions, such as:
• • Rash or hives
  • Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Abnormal bleeding or bruising
• Severe headache, vision changes, or eye pain
• Fainting or irregular heartbeat

These symptoms may indicate serious or life-threatening reactions and require prompt evaluation.

Important safety information

• Antidepressants may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults, especially during the first few months of treatment or when the dose is changed.
• Fluoxetine has a long half-life, meaning it stays in the body for several weeks after stopping. Side effects or drug interactions may persist even after discontinuation.
• Do not stop fluoxetine suddenly without medical guidance, as this may cause withdrawal-like symptoms or worsening of your condition.
• Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how fluoxetine affects you.
• Alcohol may worsen side effects and should be used cautiously or avoided.

Do not take fluoxetine if you

• Are allergic to fluoxetine or any of its ingredients
• Are currently taking, or have taken within the past 14 days:
• • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Linezolid
  • Intravenous methylene blue
• Are taking medications that significantly increase the risk of dangerous heart rhythm problems, unless specifically approved by your healthcare provider
• Have been instructed by a healthcare professional not to take SSRIs

Important Notice


 This information does not replace medical advice. Always follow the guidance of your licensed healthcare provider. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.