Prozac is a medication commonly used to treat depression in adults. Depending on your symptoms and condition, your doctor may prescribe Prozac as a part of your treatment. There are many ways to fill a prescription, including both in-person and online options. Before considering Prozac, it is important to be aware of the associated risks and side effects.
What Is Prozac (Fluoxetine)?
Prozac (fluoxetine) is a medication used to treat certain mental health conditions, including depression, bulimia nervosa, and obsessive compulsive disorder, and is one of the most prescribed antidepressants in the U.S.1,2
Prozac belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) class of medications. These work by regulating and balancing serotonin levels in the brain, helping to improve a person’s mood, energy, and emotional well-being.3
Prozac is FDA-approved for the treatment of: 1
- Major depressive disorder (MDD)
- Panic disorder
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Bulimia nervosa
- Binge eating disorder
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
- Bipolar depression
Prozac may be prescribed by practitioners for off-label uses (not FDA approved) for treating:
- Social anxiety disorder
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)
- Borderline personality disorder (BPD)
- Selective mutism
- Raynaud phenomenon
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Side Effects of Prozac
Side effects of Prozac are generally mild, and result from the chemical actions of the medication. Typically, it takes between four and six weeks for Prozac to take effect. However, you may experience improvements within the first and second week.4
Side effects of Prozac may include:1
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Sleeping problems
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Appetite issues
- Vomiting
- Sweating
- Dry mouth
- Constipation
- Weight loss
Drug Interactions With Prozac
Like other medications, Prozac can interact with various substances. This can be life-threatening, as it may worsen associated side effects or result in overdose and sudden death. To ensure safety while taking Prozac, disclose your current and past medical history with your doctor.
Substances that can have harmful interactions with Prozac include:1
- Other SSRIs
- St. John’s Wort
- Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Pimozide
- Benzodiazepines
- Thioridazine
- Alcohol
- Blood thinners
Do I Need a Prozac Prescription?
If you are struggling with symptoms of depression or another mental health condition, Prozac may be a viable addition to your treatment plan. A doctor will review your medical history before prescribing this medication in order to reduce or avoid potential risks.
Both psychotherapy and Prozac are effective in managing symptoms of depression. However, a doctor may recommend Prozac rather than or in combination with therapy, depending on the severity of your condition. Additionally, studies suggest that Prozac is better tolerated than other medications for depression.5
A doctor may prescribe Prozac if you symptoms of depression such as:
- Significant mood changes
- Trouble sleeping
- Changes in appetite
- Fatigue
- Frequent panic attacks
Who Should Not Take Prozac?
The FDA advises against the use of Prozac for children, adolescents, and young adults. This is due to an increased risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. It may cause preterm labor or birth defects when taken by pregnant women. It may cause infant exposure to the drug if taken by breastfeeding women.1
How to Get a Prozac Prescription
Prozac can only be prescribed by a licensed healthcare practitioner. If you are interested in more information about Prozac, reach out to your doctor to learn more about associated risks and if you are a good candidate for the drug.
When looking to receive a Prozac prescription, be sure to follow these steps:
- Make an appointment with your physician: Before a prescription can be issued, an appointment with a licensed physician must be made and attended.
- Talk with your provider about your condition: Be sure to inform your doctor about any and all of your symptoms. This will help them determine the best course of action.
- Receive a diagnosis: Upon reviewing your symptoms, a doctor can provide you with an accurate diagnosis, inform you of treatment options, and offer tips for coping.
- Consider costs and insurance coverage: Prozac can be costly, especially if you do not have insurance. Consider your options before fulfilling your prescription.
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Who Can Prescribe Prozac?
The FDA ensures that only licensed health practitioners can prescribe antidepressant medications such as Prozac.
Professionals who can prescribe Prozac include:6
- Licensed nurse practitioners
- Physicians
- Clinical psychologists
- Licensed physician assistants
How to Get a Prozac Prescription Online
Online psychiatry is a suitable solution if you have a busy schedule or there is a lack of mental health resources available in your area. Like in-person therapy, telepsychiatry allows you to meet your doctor one-on-one.7 You can use a computer or phone to search for a provider within your area or state.
What If I Can’t Get Prescribed Prozac?
It is important to take Prozac as prescribed by a doctor, as misuse can result in severe side effects. If you are unable to receive a prescription, consult with your doctor to determine if there is an alternative better suited to your needs. Furthermore, avoid “doctor shopping” if your primary provider does not recommend Prozac.
Alternative antidepressants to Prozac may include:
Do Over the Counter Alternatives Exist?
Over-the-counter (OTC) medications and supplements may help relieve certain symptoms. However, they should not be considered a replacement treatment for antidepressants. Be cautious when taking these substances, and alert your doctor ahead of time if you are considering any.
Examples of OTC alternatives include:8
- St. John’s Wort
- Methylfolate
- Fish oil
- Vitamin D
Questions to Ask Your Health Team
Before starting Prozac, discuss and identify any safety concerns or risks. This helps prevent harmful interaction with other substances you may be taking, as well as the possibility for severe adverse or allergic reactions.
Questions to ask your care team about getting a how-to-get Prozac include:
- What are the best online psychiatry options?
- Which side effects am I likely to experience?
- What are some alternatives to Prozac?
- How long does Prozac take to start working?
- Can I use over-the-counter alternatives alongside Prozac?
- How long will the side effects of Prozac last?
- What should I do if my symptoms get worse?
- Is it safe to take Prozac and Adderall together?
How to Get Help Immediately
Prozac overdose, toxicity, or adverse side effects are possible when taking this medication. Overdose can result in sudden death if not managed early enough. If you are experiencing severe reactions or overdose symptoms, call 9-1-1 or seek medical help immediately.3
Final Thoughts
Prozac can help relieve symptoms of depression. However, the antidepressant may result in mild to severe side effects in people who take it. Therefore, it is important to talk with your care team before considering a Prozac prescription. If you are a suitable candidate for Prozac, your doctor may recommend it as a part of your treatment.
Additional Resources
To help our readers take the next step in their mental health journey, Choosing Therapy has partnered with leaders in mental health and wellness. Choosing Therapy is compensated for marketing by the companies included below.
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