Fluoxetine
Fluoxetine is a typical Selective Serotonin Re-uptake Inhibitors SSRI, also known as a new generation of safe and effective antidepressants. The drug is safe and effective in treating conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, bulimia, binge eating disorder, premenstrual dysphoric disorder, and bipolar depression, as well as treatment-resistant depression and major depression disorders in children aged eight and older. It is safe in treating various populations, including the elderly and pregnant women. Benefits of taking Fluoxetine include that it is well absorbed, can be dosed using smaller doses, and has minor effects on other transmitters.
The most common side effects may include insomnia, nausea, diarrhea, anorexia, dry mouth, headache, drowsiness, anxiety, nervousness, yawning, decreased libido, decreased arousal in women, and decreased erectile function in men. Some patients may experience bruising, bleeding (rarely), excessive sweating, hyperhidrosis. Also noted is that Fluoxetine may cause weight gain and suicidal thoughts in teenagers.
Side effects for Fluoxetine may present immediately but are shown to decrease over time. Studies indicate that it is best to monitor side effects and wait for them to subside before changing the treatment plan. The medications as an antidepressant should take effect within two to four weeks as the drugs work by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. If symptoms persist without improvement, plan adjustments may include talk therapy. In the case scenario with patient Linda, if depression symptoms persist six months into treatment before pharmacological adjustments are made, it may be best to try another antidepressant altogether, such as Trazadone, for efficacy. Trazadone is an antidepressant that may help improve the clients’ symptoms as it also helps restore serotonin levels in the brain. It is also effective for elevating mood, assisting patients in sleeping, and increasing energy levels. This strategy would benefit Linda in that adding another drug to the Fluoxetine may increase polypharmacy, which could impact medications compliance.
