Prozac is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor that is widely used for the treatment of depression. The active ingredient in this medication is fluoxetine hydrochloride. This compound’s empirical formula is: C17H18F3NO•HCl and a molecular weight of 345.79. Prozac is available in both capsule and liquid form.
The capsules are available in different strengths ranging from 10 mg to 40 mg fluoxetine hydrochloride. In addition to the active ingredient, the capsule contains excipients like corn starch, silicone, gelatin, titanium dioxide, coloring agents and iron oxide. Prozac is also available in the form of extended release capsules. These are enteric coated pills with fluoxetine hydrochloride. These capsules contain 90 mg of fluoxetine hydrochloride. In addition to this, it contains gelatin, hypromellose, sodium lauryl sulfate, talc, sugar, titanium dioxide. Besides depression, Prozac is also used for the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder, bulimia, panic attacks.
It can also be used in combination with olanzapine to treat depression associated with bipolar disorder. Although generally well tolerated, Prozac can cause side effects like headaches, diarrhea, dry mouth, nausea, insomnia, mood swings. In some cases serious side effects like suicidal tendencies and aggressive behavior has also been reported. Therefore, it is essential that you take this medication only under the supervision of a medical practitioner.
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