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How do you take fluoxetine?

Photo credit: Tom Merton / Getty
Photo credit: Tom Merton / Getty

From NetDoctor

What is the dose of fluoxetine and how often should I take it?

  • The fluoxetine dose prescribed will vary from person to person. For depression or OCD you will usually start on a low dose at first, and your doctor may decide to increase this gradually after a few weeks if needed. For bulimia, treatment is started with a higher dose.

  • Always follow the instructions given by your doctor regarding the dose you should take. Do not take more than prescribed by your doctor. It takes a few weeks for fluoxetine to start working, so keep taking it as prescribed, even if it doesn't seem to make much difference at first.

  • Fluoxetine is usually taken once a day, however the total daily dose can be split into two or more doses if needed. Always follow the instructions given by your doctor.

  • Try to take your dose(s) at the same times each day. The medicine can have a slightly alerting effect, so some people find it's best to take it in the morning so that it doesn't stop you getting to sleep at bedtime.

How do I take my fluoxetine dose?

  • Your fluoxetine dose can be taken either with or without food, on a full or empty stomach.

  • Fluoxetine capsules should be swallowed whole with a drink of water.

  • If you've been given fluoxetine dispersible tablets (brand name Olena) you can either swallow the tablet whole with half a glass of water, or stir the tablet into half a glass of water and drink. Do not crush or chew these tablets.

  • If you're using fluoxetine liquid, always use a medicine spoon, measuring cup or oral syringe to measure out the dose needed. Don't use an ordinary teaspoon as this won't give an accurate dose.

What should I do if I miss a dose of fluoxetine?

  • If you forget to take a fluoxetine dose at your usual time take it as soon as you remember, unless it's nearly time for your next dose. In this case just leave out the forgotten dose(s) and take your next scheduled dose as usual. Don't take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.

How long do I need to take fluoxetine for?

  • You should keep taking fluoxetine every day for as long as your doctor asks you to. This may be for several months. If you have depression it's normal for your doctor to ask you to keep taking it for at least six months after you feel better, as this has been shown to reduce the risk of your depression coming back.

  • You should avoid suddenly stopping fluoxetine, as suddenly stopping SSRIs can cause symptoms such as headache, nausea, pins and needles, tremor, difficulty sleeping, intense dreams, dizziness, agitation and anxiety. Withdrawal symptoms are temporary and are not due to addiction or dependence on the medicine. They are less likely with fluoxetine than with other SSRIs, because it remains in your blood for a few weeks after you stop taking it, and its blood level naturally decreases slowly over time. However, you should follow the instructions given by your doctor or pharmacist when it is time to stop treatment. Your dose should normally be reduced gradually over at least one to two weeks.

Last updated: 25.09.2017

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