Fluoxetine
Also known as: Prozac
What it's for
Fluoxetine is an antidepressant used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and bulimia. It helps balance serotonin levels in your brain.
Comes as: Capsules or liquid
How to take it
- Adults: Usually 20mg once a day.
- Take in the morning, with or without food.
- It can take 4 to 6 weeks to feel the full benefit.
- Do not stop taking it suddenly.
Doses here are typical. Always follow the instructions from your prescriber or on the packet — they come first.
Common side effects
- Feeling sick
- Headaches
- Trouble sleeping
- Feeling restless or anxious
The leaflet inside the packet lists all known side effects.
Important safety points
- Do not stop taking it suddenly - reduce the dose gradually with your doctor
- Can stay in your body for weeks after stopping
- Avoid alcohol
- Tell your doctor about all other medicines you take
Get medical help urgently if…
- You have thoughts of harming yourself
- You have a seizure
- You have unusual bleeding or bruising
- You develop a high temperature, agitation, and muscle stiffness
Call NHS 111 for urgent advice, or 999 if someone is seriously unwell.
Before you act on anything here
This page is general information, written to help you understand — it is not personal medical advice and it cannot tell you what is right for you. Talk to your own GP, pharmacist or nurse about your own health.
- Need help now but it's not an emergency? Call NHS 111 or use 111.nhs.uk.
- Emergency? Call 999 or go to A&E.