| For more than fifteen
years, Prozac has been proven safe and
effective in treating depression. In
1988, Prozac was the first of a new class
of antidepressants, known as selective
serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), to
be made available in the United States.
Since its introduction, Prozac has become
one of the world's most thoroughly
studied medicines. It is the medicine
most often prescribed for the treatment
of depression in the United States. In
fact, it has been prescribed for more
than 17 million Americans. In over 100
countries, Prozac is available for use in
the treatment of depression. Chances are
someone you know is getting better
because of it.
Please
read the following Frequently Asked
Questions and carefully read the manufacturer's information
about Prozac before placing an order.
| Prozac
Frequently Asked Questions |
How
does Prozac Work?
Many
physicians believe that depression is
caused by an inbalance of one of the
body's natural chemicals called
serotonin. Prozac helps to correct this
serotonin activity inbalance in depressed
individuals.
How
long does it take to work?
Some
symptoms of depression may improve during
the first week although it may take 3-4
weeks to experience Prozac's full
benefits.The recommdended length of
treatment with antidepressants such as
Prozac is 6 to 12 months, because one of
the goals of treatment is to prevent the
re-occurance of depression.
What
are Prozac's side effects?
Some
people experience mild side effects
including difficulty sleeping, anxiety,
nervousness, weakness, loss of appetite,
tremors, dry mouth, sweating, decreased
sex drive, yawning, and/or impotence.
These side effects often go away within
the first few weeks of treatment, and are
not serious enough to cause most people
to stop treatment.
If
you develop a rash while taking Prozac,
contact your local physician immediately.
This can be a sign of a serious
condition.
Who
should not take Prozac?
Those
taking medications known as MAO
inhibitors should not take Prozac at the
same time or within two weeks of stopping
MAO inhibitor medication. Likewise, MAO
inhibitors should not be taken until
Prozac therapy has stopped for at least
two weeks.
How
much should I take?
Taking
Prozac is convenient, because it's
usually taken as a single daily
capsule, with or without food.
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