fluoxetine medication a member of the SSRI class of the drugs have been existing for over 15 years and is popularly used for its antidepressant properties.The fluoxetine medication also helps in treating obsessive compulsive disorder and bulimia nervosa. Fluoxetine is now also being promoted as a medication for recovering from premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) (Sarafem,Eli Lilly). In 1999 fluoxetine was along with the most regularly distributed drugs in the United States and was the most commonly recommended antidepressant. As it is the popular choice for antidepressant it is necessary for very one to have knowledge about the kinds of medications with which it interact.
The use of fluoxetine with MAO inhibitors is contraindicated and fluoxetine use is contraindicated within 14 days of discontinuing MAO inhibitors. Use of MAO inhibitors within the 5 weeks of completion of the fluoxetine medication is not advisable. There is an possibility for an adverse reaction if the drug is used along St.John's wort as the latter also helps in increasing the content of Serotonin hormone in the brain .
The dose of the drug must be reduced gradually before stopping it all together under the guidance of a medical professional.Patients who have difficulty affording medications can experience problems as a result of stopping and starting treatment or suddenly ceasing treatment.
A number of forms of fluoxetine are offered to patients this includes the time-released version as well whose intake is much lesser than the normal type.Though introduced under a brand name initially its genetic versions are also available these days. The generic format is pharmacologically identical to the brand name drug, and typically less costly .Due to concerns about how the drug is used and the need for supervision, fluoxetine is not available over the counter to patientsAbout the Author: