Fluoxetine
Increases serotonin levels in the brain. It is the only FDA-approved antidepressant for children aged 8 and older.
Dosage by Body Weight
Starting dose: 10 mg once daily. Requires close monitoring for 'suicidal ideation' black box warnings in young patients.
- Body Weight
- Adolescents (Over 35 kg)
- Dose
- 10 mg to 20 mg
- Frequency
- Once daily
- Tracking Notes
- Full effect may take 4-6 weeks to appear.
| Body Weight | Dose | Frequency | Tracking Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adolescents (Over 35 kg) | 10 mg to 20 mg | Once daily | Full effect may take 4-6 weeks to appear. |
Formulation
Purpose
SSRI used for depression, OCD, and anxiety disorders in children and adolescents.
Generic Name
Fluoxetine HydrochlorideBranded Drug Names
Fluoxetine is listed as a generic drug name. Common branded medicines that may contain the same active ingredient include:
Scheduled Drug
Yes. This medicine should be supplied or used only according to applicable prescription and regulatory requirements.
Alternatives
Safety Advice
Alcohol
UNSAFEFluoxetine: Alcohol can worsen drowsiness, mood changes, impaired judgment, or heart rhythm effects. Avoid alcohol unless your prescriber confirms it is safe.
Pregnancy
CAUTIONFluoxetine: Use in pregnancy only when prescribed after weighing mental health benefits and medicine-specific risks.
Breast Feeding
CAUTIONFluoxetine: May pass into breast milk. Use while breastfeeding only with specialist guidance and infant monitoring.
Driving
CAUTIONFluoxetine: May cause sleepiness, dizziness, slowed reaction time, or concentration changes. Avoid driving if affected.
Liver
CAUTIONFluoxetine: Use caution in liver disease because several psychiatric or sedating medicines are processed by the liver.
Kidney
CAUTIONFluoxetine: Kidney disease may require monitoring or dose adjustment for some medicines in this group.