
Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and is one of a group of antidepressants that work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is thought to positively affect mood, emotion, and sleep. Fluoxetine is generally taken once a day in the morning, although some people may take it twice a day (e.g., morning and noon). The timing of when you take fluoxetine can be important, especially if you experience certain side effects. For example, if fluoxetine causes drowsiness or sleepiness, taking it closer to bedtime may be recommended. Additionally, if sexual side effects occur, adjusting the timing of your dose in relation to your sexual activity may be beneficial. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about the medication.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who directs when to take fluoxetine | Your doctor |
| When to take fluoxetine | In the morning or twice a day (e.g. morning and noon) |
| Fluoxetine for sleep | May be taken in the evening when given in combination with Zyprexa (olanzapine) as a therapy for treatment-resistant depression |
| Fluoxetine for children | 10mg a day, may be increased to 20mg a day |
| Fluoxetine causing sleepiness | Yes, fluoxetine may cause sleepiness |
| Fluoxetine causing drowsiness | Yes, fluoxetine may cause drowsiness |
| Fluoxetine causing sexual side effects | Yes, fluoxetine may cause sexual side effects such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, or inability to ejaculate |
| Fluoxetine causing suicidal thoughts | A small number of children, teenagers, and young adults (up to 24 years of age) who took fluoxetine during clinical studies became suicidal |
| Fluoxetine causing other side effects | Fluoxetine may cause decreased interest in sexual intercourse, delayed or inability to have an orgasm, inability to have or keep an erection, or loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance |
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What You'll Learn
- Fluoxetine may cause drowsiness, so it's often taken in the evening
- Fluoxetine is usually taken once a day in the morning
- Fluoxetine can be taken with or without food
- Fluoxetine may be taken with olanzapine to treat depression; this combination is taken in the evening
- Fluoxetine can cause sexual side effects, including loss of libido and erectile dysfunction

Fluoxetine may cause drowsiness, so it's often taken in the evening
Fluoxetine is a type of antidepressant called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is thought to work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which positively influences mood, emotion, and sleep. Fluoxetine is generally taken once a day in the morning, but some people may take it twice a day (e.g., morning and noon). The timing of when you take fluoxetine can be important, especially if you experience certain side effects.
Fluoxetine may cause drowsiness or sleepiness in some people. If you experience drowsiness as a side effect, it is often recommended to take fluoxetine in the evening or at bedtime. This way, the side effect can be better tolerated, and it may not interfere with your daily activities. However, it's important to note that everyone reacts differently to fluoxetine, so it's always a good idea to consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns.
In addition to drowsiness, fluoxetine may also cause decreased interest in sexual intercourse, erectile dysfunction, and other sexual side effects. If you experience these side effects, the timing of when you take fluoxetine can make a difference. It may be helpful to take fluoxetine shortly after you expect to engage in sexual activity. Additionally, some people may experience sleep disturbances when taking fluoxetine. If you have trouble sleeping, it is recommended to take fluoxetine in the morning.
It is important to follow the directions provided by your doctor or the instructions on your prescription label. Do not take more or less of the medication than prescribed, and do not change the timing without consulting your healthcare provider. Fluoxetine should be taken at around the same time every day, and it may take several weeks to feel the full benefits of the medication. Remember that the best time to take fluoxetine depends on your unique situation, and your doctor can provide specific recommendations to optimize your treatment.
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Fluoxetine is usually taken once a day in the morning
Fluoxetine is a type of antidepressant that is part of the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) group. SSRIs are thought to work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which positively influences mood, emotion, and sleep. Fluoxetine is usually taken once a day in the morning. This is because, for some people, fluoxetine may cause drowsiness or decreased alertness. Taking fluoxetine in the morning can help to mitigate these side effects and allow for better tolerance of the medication.
The recommended dosage for adults is 20 milligrams (mg) once a day in the morning. However, your doctor may adjust your dosage as needed, and it may increase to a maximum of 80 mg per day. If you are taking more than 20 mg per day, you may take the capsule once daily in the morning or split your dosage and take it twice a day (e.g., morning and noon). Fluoxetine delayed-release capsules are usually taken once a week.
For children 8 years and older, the initial dosage is typically 10 or 20 mg once daily in the morning, and your doctor may adjust the dosage as required. For children under 8, the dosage and timing should be determined by a doctor.
It is important to note that fluoxetine may cause sexual side effects, such as decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, or inability to ejaculate. If you experience these side effects, you should consult your doctor, as they may recommend adjusting the timing of your medication.
Additionally, fluoxetine may interact with other substances, such as alcohol, cannabis, and certain medications. Alcohol may enhance feelings of sleepiness, so it is recommended to refrain from drinking during the initial treatment phase. Cannabis may also increase feelings of drowsiness, and it is advised to discuss any potential interactions with recreational drugs with your doctor.
Fluoxetine is generally safe for long-term use, and most people can take it without experiencing significant side effects. However, it is always important to follow the directions provided by your doctor or pharmacist and carefully read the medication guide.
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Fluoxetine can be taken with or without food
Fluoxetine is a medication that can be taken with or without food. It is usually taken once a day in the morning, but some people may take it twice a day (e.g. morning and noon). The delayed-release capsules are usually taken once a week. The recommended dosage for adults is 20 milligrams (mg) once a day in the morning, but this may be adjusted by a doctor as needed. The maximum dosage for adults is typically not more than 80 mg per day.
Children 8 years and older are usually prescribed 10 or 20 mg once a day in the morning, while children younger than 8 years should have their dosage determined by a doctor. Fluoxetine can also be taken in combination with olanzapine for treatment-resistant depression, with the recommended dosage for adults being 20 mg of fluoxetine and 5 mg of olanzapine once a day in the evening.
It is important to follow the directions on the prescription label or the instructions provided by a doctor or pharmacist. Fluoxetine should be taken exactly as directed, and it may take a few weeks to feel the full benefits of the medication.
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Fluoxetine may be taken with olanzapine to treat depression; this combination is taken in the evening
Fluoxetine is an antidepressant that belongs to a group of medicines known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bulimia nervosa, premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), and panic disorder. When taken in combination with olanzapine, it can be used to treat depression that is a part of bipolar disorder and treatment-resistant depression in patients who have received at least two previous treatments that did not work well. This combination is marketed as Symbyax and can cause sleepiness, so it is typically taken in the evening.
The decision to take fluoxetine with olanzapine should be made after carefully weighing the risks and benefits with a doctor's guidance. Fluoxetine may cause some people to experience side effects such as drowsiness, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, inability to ejaculate, poor muscle control, and suicidal thoughts. It is important to closely monitor any unusual thoughts or behaviors and report them to the doctor. Additionally, elderly patients taking this medication may require caution or dosage adjustments due to an increased risk of hyponatremia (low sodium in the blood).
The dosage of fluoxetine and olanzapine combination therapy is typically initiated at lower amounts and gradually adjusted based on individual needs. For adults, the starting dose is usually 20 milligrams (mg) of fluoxetine and 5 mg of olanzapine once daily in the evening. The maximum dose is generally not more than 50 mg of fluoxetine and 12-20 mg of olanzapine per day. It is important to follow the directions provided by the doctor or pharmacist and read the medication guide carefully.
Fluoxetine can be taken with or without food, but it is important to maintain consistency by taking it at the same time(s) every day. It may take a month or longer before the beneficial effects of fluoxetine are noticeable. It is crucial to only take the medication as directed by the doctor, without increasing the dosage or frequency beyond the prescribed limits. Additionally, it is important to be cautious when taking other medications or supplements alongside fluoxetine, as interactions may occur.
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Fluoxetine can cause sexual side effects, including loss of libido and erectile dysfunction
Fluoxetine, also known as Prozac, is an FDA-approved medication for major depression and OCD in adults and children. It is also approved for the treatment of binge eating in patients with bulimia nervosa. Fluoxetine belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) class of drugs, which affect serotonin levels in the body.
Increased serotonin levels due to fluoxetine can impact hormones such as testosterone and dopamine. While the process is not fully understood, these hormonal effects may lead to a decrease in sex drive for some individuals taking the medication.
Fluoxetine has been associated with various sexual side effects, including loss of libido and erectile dysfunction. In a study, 34% of 160 outpatients reported the onset of sexual dysfunction after successful treatment with fluoxetine. Of these patients, 10% reported decreased libido, 13% reported decreased sexual response, and 11% reported declines in both areas.
The sexual side effects of fluoxetine can include decreased sexual desire, delayed or no orgasm in women, and delayed ejaculation in men. These side effects are likely common for both men and women, although they are often underreported.
The timing of when you take fluoxetine can make a difference in managing these sexual side effects. It may be helpful to take the medication shortly after the time of day when you are most likely to engage in sexual activity. Additionally, some side effects may be better tolerated if the medication is taken closer to bedtime.
If you experience sexual side effects while taking fluoxetine, it is important to consult your healthcare provider. They may recommend adjustments to your medication or suggest additional coping strategies, such as talking to your partner or seeking therapy.
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Frequently asked questions
Fluoxetine is usually taken in the morning, but it can be taken at any time. If you experience sleep problems, it is recommended to take it in the morning.
It takes around a week for fluoxetine levels to build up in your body, and then a few weeks longer for your body to adapt and get used to it. You may see an improvement in your symptoms after around 1 to 2 weeks, but it usually takes between 4 and 6 weeks before you feel the full benefits.
Yes, fluoxetine can be taken with or without food.
Yes, you can drink alcohol while taking fluoxetine, but it may make you feel sleepy. It might be best to refrain from drinking alcohol during the first few days of treatment to see how the medicine affects you.










































