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Prozac Information
Prozac is a serotonin-specific drug used for patients who do not respond to heterocyclic antidepressants. Prozac is part of a line of drugs called “selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors.” Re-uptake inhibitors such as Prozac help boost the level of serotonin in the brain. Prozac helps stabilize chemicals that become unbalanced and cause depression or mood disturbances, eating disorders, or obsessive or compulsive symptoms.
Prozac is prescribed for the following reasons:
- Depression: such as a continuing depression that interferes with daily functioning. Symptoms of depression include changes in appetite, sleep habits, and mind/body coordination. Other symptoms are decreased sex drive, increased fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, slowed thinking, and suicidal thoughts.
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder: such as an obsessive thought that won't go away or a compulsive action done over and over to alleviate anxiety.
- Bulimia: such as binge-eating followed by self-induced vomiting. Other eating disorders and obesity may also be treated by Prozac.
- Panic disorder: such as panic associated with agoraphobia (a severe fear of being in crowds or public places), or feelings of intense fear that develop suddenly, often for no reason.
- Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD): this is formerly known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Prozac is the active ingredient in the drug Serafem, which is prescribed for PMDD. Symptoms of PMDD include anxiety, depression, irritability, persistent anger, tension, and mood swings severe enough to interfere with daily activities and relationships. Physical problems that accompany PMDD include bloating, breast tenderness, headache, and joint and muscle pain.
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