Prozac: Important Facts of Interest
Prozac: Why is it
prescribed?
Prozac
is most frequently prescribed for the treatment of depression. The types of
depression for which Prozac is usually recommended are usually of the moderate
to severe variety which interfere with daily functioning and is frequently
referred to as major depression. The symptoms of major depression often include
changes in appetite, sleep habits, decreased sex drive, increased fatigue,
feelings of guilt or worthlessness; difficulty concentrating; slow thinking; and
suicidal thoughts.
Prozac for
obsessive-compulsive disorders:
Prozac is also prescribed to
treat obsessive-compulsive disorder. Obsessions are thoughts which won't go
away and compulsions are actions done over and over to relieve the anxiety
usually associated with the obsession. Prozac is also used in the treatment of
bulimia (a binge eating disorder involving deliberate vomiting) and also has
been used to treat other eating disorders as well as obesity.
Prozac for premenstrual
dysphoric disorder:
Under the brand name Serafem
which is the active ingredient in Prozac, it is also sometimes prescribed for
premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD.), which is more commonly referred to as
premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Symptoms of premenstrual dysphoric disorder include
mood changes such as anxiety, depression, irritability, persistent anger, mood
swings and frequently some level excessive tension. Physical problems are also
associated with the PMDD which include bloating, breast tenderness, headache,
and joint and muscle pain. Symptoms have a tendency to begin 1 to 2 weeks
before a women’s premenstrual period and frequently are severe enough to
interfere with daily activities and relationships.
Prozac: What kind of
medication is it?
Prozac is a selective
serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), activating an increase in the
neurotransmitter serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter, or a chemical
messenger in the brain believed to govern moods. Usually, it is quickly
reabsorbed after its release from a neuron in the brain. However, reuptake
inhibitors such as Prozac, delay the process thereby boosting levels of
serotonin available in the brain to more appropriately regulate moods.
By Paul Susic MA Licensed Psychologist Ph.D. Candidate
Information provided by
The PDR Pocket Guide to Prescription Drugs - Sixth Edition
See additional Prozac pictures and dosages
