FDA-approved

Generic for Prozac^®

Fluoxetine

Starting at $49/mo

Getting psychiatric care for anxiety and depression has never been more convenient. Consult with a healthcare provider through our platform to determine whether a medication like fluoxetine could be right for you.

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Prescribed by a healthcare provider experienced in treating anxiety & depression, if appropriate
Unlimited provider messaging
Free dosage adjustments

What is fluoxetine?

Fluoxetine is an antidepressant, notably the first SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) approved for use in the United States. It has been approved by the FDA and marketed under the brand name Prozac® for over three decades.

Fluoxetine uses

Currently, fluoxetine is FDA-approved for acute and maintenance treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), as well as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bulimia nervosa, and panic disorder. Not all mental health conditions can be treated by a provider through our platform.
Fluoxetine should be taken exactly as directed by your healthcare provider. Generally, it is taken once a day at the same time, earlier in the day if trouble sleeping is a concern. Abruptly stopping fluoxetine is generally not recommended, even if you feel better, because serious withdrawal symptoms can occur.

How fluoxetine works

Fluoxetine works to increase the amount of serotonin in the brain by limiting how much serotonin is reabsorbed by nerve cells. For people with depression and anxiety, this can help manage symptoms such as low interest in activities or panic attacks.

Only available if prescribed after an online consultation with a healthcare provider.

Controlled substances such as Xanax and Adderall are not available through our platform.

This page has been medically reviewed by Sylvia Valadez, MSN, APRN, FNP-BC.

How to get fluoxetine online with Hers

1. Simple consultation

Complete an online mental health assessment and intake form, then connect with a healthcare provider through our platform.

2. Free delivery

Get fluoxetine shipped to you for free, if prescribed.

3. Ongoing support

Enjoy secure, ongoing support 100% online—including refills and unlimited dosage adjustments.

Fluoxetine

What’s an SSRI?

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are a type of antidepressant that work by increasing levels of a mood-affecting chemical called serotonin in the brain which helps to improve your symptoms. Nice, right?

The science of fluoxetine

Your brain naturally produces chemicals that make you feel good, like serotonin. Fluoxetine keeps neurons from reabsorbing this chemical so that you have more of it available in your brain. Long story short? For people with depression and anxiety disorders, this can help to improve interest in activities or reduce the number of panic attacks.

75%

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Results vary. Data were self-reported between 11/26/2021 and 08/01/2022 by Hers customers who 1) signed up between 11/04/2021 and 05/04/2022; 2) were prescribed antidepressant medication by a provider after their first consultation on the Hers platform; and 3) had an active subscription for such antidepressant medication through the Hers platform within 90 days after signing up.

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Frequently asked questions about fluoxetine

How does fluoxetine (generic for Prozac^®) make you feel?

Fluoxetine has been shown to be effective in treating depression and certain types of anxiety in clinical trials.

How long does fluoxetine take to work?

Fluoxetine may take up to two weeks to begin its work on depression and will continue to improve working over time.

What does fluoxetine do?

Fluoxetine blocks the reuptake of serotonin, a neurotransmitter or chemical messenger in the brain.

Is fluoxetine an MAOI?

No, fluoxetine is not an MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor). It is an SSRI.

Is fluoxetine a controlled substance?

No. Fluoxetine is an SSRI, which is not a controlled substance. Most people do not abuse SSRIs.

Is fluoxetine (generic for Prozac^®) addictive?

Fluoxetine has not been systematically studied for its potential for abuse, tolerance, or physical dependence and is not known to have addictive properties. Quitting fluoxetine without talking to a healthcare provider is not recommended, as discontinuing fluoxetine could cause serious discontinuation symptoms. You should always consult a healthcare provider before stopping fluoxetine.

Does fluoxetine (generic for Prozac^®) cause weight gain?

While antidepressants are sometimes associated with minor weight gain, in clinical studies of fluoxetine, a small number of patients reported decreased appetite and/or weight loss, which may be more significant in underweight depressed or bulimic patients. Consult your healthcare provider with any questions about the potential for weight gain while taking fluoxetine.

How long does fluoxetine stay in your system?

After you stop taking fluoxetine, it should be out of your system in about 25 days. However, certain metabolites may stay in your system for 22 to 82 days after stopping the medication.

What are some possible serious side effects of fluoxetine?

Adverse effects of fluoxetine may include drowsiness, irregular heartbeat, seizures, abnormal bleeding or bruising, suicidal thoughts or serious allergic reaction. This list is nonexhaustive.If you experience these or worsening side effects, contact a healthcare professional immediately.

What are some known fluoxetine interactions?

Drug interactions with fluoxetine include: MAOIs (such as isocarboxazid or tranylcypromine), NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen), certain beta-blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, warfarin, benzodiazepines, certain anti-psychotics, certain anticonvulsants and more (including St. John‘s Wort). If mixed with certain antidepressants that increase serotonin, you may run the risk of a serious condition called serotonin syndrome. This list is non-exhaustive.Be sure to seek medical advice from a healthcare professional and read the package information before beginning fluoxetine treatment.