DEPRICAP LIQUID
FLOUXETINE AS HCL
What it does
Fluoxetine is a medication often used to help improve mood and reduce anxiety.
Commonly used for: depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bulimia nervosa …
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Source: Pharmacy and Poisons Board · fetched 2026-01-28 20:25:46 · updated 2026-09-18 02:22:50
About this medicine
Fluoxetine is a medication often used to help improve mood and reduce anxiety.
What it treats
- depression
- anxiety disorders
- obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- bulimia nervosa
- premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
How it works
Fluoxetine works by increasing the levels of certain chemicals in the brain that help improve mood and emotional balance.
Who it's for
Fluoxetine is for adults and sometimes prescribed for children and adolescents with specific mental health conditions.
AI-assisted summary grounded in BNF data - general information only, not medical advice. Always confirm with your pharmacist or doctor.
Clinical monograph: flouxetine
Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) commonly used as an antidepressant. It is primarily indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bulimia nervosa, and panic disorder. Fluoxetine works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain, which is believed to have a good influence on mood, emotion, and sleep.
Indications
- Major depressive disorder
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder
- Bulimia nervosa
- Panic disorder
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder
Dosage
Children: Refer to BNF for Children for specific dosing information.
Adults: Refer to BNF for specific dosing information.
Mechanism of action
Fluoxetine selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) in the presynaptic neurons, leading to an increase in serotonin levels in the synaptic cleft. This enhanced serotonergic neurotransmission is thought to alleviate depressive symptoms and reduce anxiety. The drug may also affect other neurotransmitter systems, but its primary action is through serotonin reuptake inhibition.
Pharmacodynamics
Fluoxetine's pharmacodynamic effects include the enhancement of mood and reduction of anxiety. Its therapeutic effects are generally observed after several weeks of continuous treatment due to the time required for neuroadaptive changes in response to increased serotonin levels. Side effects may include nausea, headaches, insomnia, and sexual dysfunction, which result from alterations in serotonin signaling pathways.
Pharmacokinetics
Fluoxetine is well-absorbed after oral administration, with peak plasma concentrations typically occurring within 6-8 hours. It has a long half-life of about 4 to 6 days, and its active metabolite, norfluoxetine, has a half-life of up to 16 days. Fluoxetine is extensively metabolized in the liver via cytochrome P450 enzymes, particularly CYP2D6, CYP2C19, and CYP3A4. It is excreted primarily in the urine as metabolites.
Contra-indications
- Hypersensitivity to fluoxetine or any of its components
- Concurrent use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Use in patients with a history of serotonin syndrome
Adverse effects
- Nausea
- Insomnia
- Anxiety
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Sexual dysfunction
- Weight changes
- Sweating
Interactions
- Increased risk of serotonin syndrome with other serotonergic drugs
- Increased plasma levels of fluoxetine with CYP2D6 inhibitors
- Potentially increased risk of bleeding with anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents
Precautions
- Monitor for worsening depression or suicidal thoughts
- Use cautiously in patients with a history of seizures
- Monitor for signs of serotonin syndrome, especially when initiating or increasing dosage
- Caution in patients with hepatic impairment
Pregnancy
Use only if the benefits outweigh the risks. Limited data available on safety.
Breast-feeding
Fluoxetine is excreted in breast milk, use caution and monitor infant for side effects.
Storage
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Formulations
- Capsule
- Tablet
- Oral solution
AI-synthesized from BNF references - general information only, not a substitute for professional medical advice or the current BNF. Verify doses with a pharmacist.