F is for fluoxetine

Yeah baby - the mighty Prozac (generic name fluoxetine).

We'll look at this like we are writing a character: If your character is depressed, they might have a change in appetite, sleep habits, decreased sex drive, increased fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, difficulty concentrating, slow thinking, or suicidal thoughts.

Here's the pharmacy low-down on Prozac...introduced in 1986 as the first SSRI (serotonic-selective reuptake inhibitor), Prozac, according to its website, has been a "catalyst in bringing attention to mental illness."

Fluoxetine is prescribed for everything from depression, to panic disorder, to bulemia, to OCD.

What you might not know:
1. It can take up to two months for the full effect of the medication to be reached.
2. It is not in an addictive category of medicine, but you should be weaned off this medication by your doctor.
3. It's used in children for depression and OCD down to age seven.
4. It's most common side effects are nausea, headache, trouble sleeping, decreased libido, appetite changes, and/or constipation/diarrhea.

Does your character need Prozac?

Disclaimer: These posts are for writing purposes ONLY and are NOT intended for medical treatment or advice.

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