Depression
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Prozac Capsules

Prozac® (
 fluoxetine hydrochloride) is a prescription medication commonly used for treating depression. It is also licensed to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and bulimia.
 
There are currently two different forms of this medication: capsules and a liquid. The capsule form of Prozac comes in four strengths; one is a long-acting version that is taken once a week. The other strengths (as well as liquid Prozac) are generally taken once or twice a day.
 
As a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, Prozac works by acting on serotonin (a certain chemical) in the brain. Since unbalanced levels of serotonin can cause a variety of conditions, balancing these levels can help improve many symptoms of these various conditions.
 
While most people tolerate Prozac well, side effects are possible. Some of the most common side effects that have been reported with this medication include loss of appetite, insomnia, nausea, and headaches.
 
(Click Prozac for more information about specific Prozac uses, to learn more about the drug's effects, and for suggestions on when and how to take this antidepressant.)
 
Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;