Prozac Antidepressant

An antidepressant, Prozac^® (fluoxetine hydrochloride) is used for treating various conditions within the brain. It is approved to treat depression, panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bulimia. The drug is available by prescription only and comes as capsules and liquid form. When used in combination with Zyprexa^® (olanzapine), it is also approved for treating bipolar depression and treatment-resistant depression.

 

When the levels of serotonin (a certain chemical in the brain) become unbalanced, it can cause a variety of conditions, including depression. Prozac helps to re-balance serotonin levels by blocking the reuptake of serotonin so more remains in the space between the brain's nerve cells. This action can help improve the symptoms of various conditions within the brain.

 

While most people tolerate Prozac well, side effects are possible. Some of the most common side effects that have been reported with this antidepressant include diarrhea, drowsiness, headache, and loss of appetite.