Not medical advice. This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult a qualified doctor or pharmacist before taking any medicine. Fluoxetine requires a valid prescription.
Fluoxetine
Generic Name: FLUOXETINE HYDROCHLORIDE
Fluoxetine capsules, USP are a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor for oral administration.
Data last updated: 30 March 2026 · Source: openFDA.gov, DailyMed (NLM/NIH)
Common Brand Names in India:
What is Fluoxetine Used For?
- Depressive episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder
How Does It Work?
Studies in animals also suggest that fluoxetine is a much more potent uptake inhibitor of serotonin than of norepinephrine.
Dosage & Administration
- Consider a dose increase after several weeks if insufficient clinical improvement is observed.
- Administer doses above 20 mg/day once daily in the morning or twice daily (i.e., morning and noon).
- The maximum fluoxetine dose should not exceed 80 mg/day.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects
Serious Side Effects (seek immediate medical attention)
Warnings & Precautions
- Use with caution in conditions that predispose to arrhythmias or increased fluoxetine exposure.
- Use cautiously in patients with risk factors for QT prolongation ( 4.2 , 5.11 ) Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment: Has potential to impair judgment, thinking, and motor skills.
- Suicide is a known risk of depression and certain other psychiatric disorders, and these disorders themselves are the strongest predictors of suicide.
- Pooled analyses of short-term placebo-controlled trials of antidepressant drugs (SSRIs and others) showed that these drugs increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior (suicidality) in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 18 to 24) with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders.
- Short-term studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidality with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults beyond age 24; there was a reduction with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults aged 65 and older.
Who Should NOT Take This?
- Serotonin Syndrome and MAOIs: Do not use MAOIs intended to treat psychiatric disorders with fluoxetine or within 5 weeks of stopping treatment with fluoxetine.
- Do not use fluoxetine within 14 days of stopping an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders.
- In addition, do not start fluoxetine in a patient who is being treated with linezolid or intravenous methylene blue Pimozide: Do not use.
- Risk of QT prolongation and drug interaction ( 4.2 , 5.11 , 7.7 , 7.8 ) Thioridazine: Do not use.
Drug Interactions
Fluoxetine may interact with the following medicines. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking.
Storage Instructions
Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
Speak to a psychiatrist on Zospital
Consult a psychiatrist on Zospital before starting Fluoxetine. Verified Indian specialists available for in-clinic and online consultations.
Other Mental Health Medicines
Sources: openFDA.gov · dailymed.nlm.nih.gov · nlm.nih.gov (RxNorm). Information is for educational purposes only. Consult a doctor before use.
FAQS
Fluoxetine – Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about Fluoxetine, its uses, dosage and safety.
Fluoxetine is commonly prescribed in India for: Depressive episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder. Always confirm the indication with a registered medical practitioner before starting any course.
Fluoxetine is sold in India under brand names such as Prozac, Fludac, Flutin, Prodep, Fluoxetine. You can also find it on online pharmacies like 1mg, Pharmeasy and Apollo Pharmacy.
Fluoxetine is a prescription-only (Schedule H) medicine in India. You will need a valid prescription from a registered MBBS / MD doctor to purchase it from a licensed pharmacy.
Common side effects of Fluoxetine can include: Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Constipation, Headache, Dizziness, Dry mouth, Insomnia. Less common but serious side effects can include: Serious, Aplastic, Suicidal, Seizure, Serotonin syndrome. Stop the medicine and contact your doctor immediately if any of these appear.
Studies in animals also suggest that fluoxetine is a much more potent uptake inhibitor of serotonin than of norepinephrine.
Fluoxetine can interact with: Monoamine, Fluoxetine, Caution, Diazepam, Potential, Aspirin. Tell your doctor about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take — including ayurvedic and homeopathy preparations — before starting Fluoxetine.
Indian guidelines often recommend lower starting doses of Fluoxetine for patients above 60-65, since kidney and liver function decline with age. A doctor should review the dose, especially if the patient already takes BP, sugar or heart medicines.
Pregnancy safety of Fluoxetine depends on the trimester and individual case. Indian gynaecologists usually avoid Category C/D drugs unless benefit clearly outweighs risk. Speak to your obstetrician before taking Fluoxetine during pregnancy or while planning conception.
Prices in India typically range from ₹30 – ₹500 per strip / vial depending on brand. Generic versions tend to cost 30-60% less than branded ones, and Jan Aushadhi outlets often stock the lowest-priced equivalents. Check 1mg or Pharmeasy for live MRP.
If you remember within a few hours of the missed dose, take it. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed one — never double up. Frequent missed doses reduce Fluoxetine's effectiveness, so consider setting a reminder or speaking to your doctor about a simpler schedule.
You can book an in-person or online consultation with a verified Indian specialist on Zospital — visit the doctor directory at https://zospital.com/doctor to find one near you.
Medical Disclaimer
The content provided on Zospital is for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.