Prozac for Depression

Prozac^® ( fluoxetine hydrochloride) is a prescription drug licensed for treating various conditions within the brain. Healthcare providers often prescribe it for depression, but the medication is also approved for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, and bulimia. When used in combination with Zyprexa^® (olanzapine), it is also approved for treating bipolar depression and treatment-resistant depression.

 

This antidepressant is part of a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. It works by balancing the levels of serotonin in the brain (unbalanced serotonin levels can cause a variety of conditions, including depression). When used for treating depression, Prozac can be given to both adults and children.

 

Before you begin taking Prozac, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider if you have bipolar disorder (or a family history of bipolar disorder), heart disease, diabetes, or liver disease. You should also tell him or her about all other medications you are taking, in order to help prevent drug interactions.