Prozac Information:

Prozac is one of the most popular and widely recommended antidepressants in the world. It belongs to the family of serotonin-reuptake inhibitor drugs. This medicine is an antidepressant and was approved in 1987. It is used to treat obsessions and compulsions in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

The general symptoms of major depression include changes in appetite, sleeping disorders, decreased sex drive, increased weakness, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, difficulty in concentrating, slowed thought processes, and suicidal thoughts.

This medicine blocks the reabsorption of serotonin, which is a neurotransmitter in your brain. These are chemical messengers, and many experts believe that an imbalance in these can cause anxiety.

Prozac is very effective for the treatment of panic disorder like that seen in agoraphobia. In these cases, people suffer from panic attacks. They feel intense fear suddenly, often with no reason. Many symptoms occur in these panic attacks: rapid or pounding heartbeat, chest pains, sweating, trembling, and shortness of breath being some common symptoms.

It is also used to treat premenstrual dysphoric disorder. The indication of this issue occurs a week or two before a woman's menstrual period. These generally include irritability, mood swings, and tension.

It is the only antidepressant that is approved by FDA for use in children suffering from anxiety. In adolescents as well, Prozac is used to cure serious depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder.

Prozac is generally taken once or twice daily. It can also be taken once weekly. You should take it with meals, as instructed by your doctor, and also try to consume it at the same time every day. Its dosage depends on the individual and varies according to physical condition and sensitivity. For the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder, it should be taken once daily while are having your period. It can also be taken 14 days before your period start. Follow your doctor's instructions in all conditions. If you want to discontinue this medicine, you should consult your doctor first.

While you take this drug, your need to see your doctor for regular check ups for about two months or so.

Prozac also has certain side effects. These include allergic reactions, skin rashes or hives, difficulty in breathing, drowsiness, dizziness, weakness, runny nose, sore throat, headache, and flu-like symptoms. These are mild side effects and rarely occur. This drug also has certain serious side effects; however, the probability is very little.

This article is for informational purposes only. For further instructions on Prozac consult with your doctor.