Fluoxetine Suspension

Fluoxetine Suspension
Usage
Fluoxetine suspension is an oral liquid formulation of a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat a range of mental health conditions. It is particularly useful for patients who require flexible dosing or have difficulty swallowing capsules, including paediatric patients.
It may be prescribed for:
• Major depressive disorder
• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Anxiety and panic disorders
• Bulimia nervosa
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
• Other practitioner-directed psychiatric conditions

Dosage
Dosage should be determined by the prescribing practitioner based on the patient’s condition, age, and response to treatment.
Typical dosing considerations include:
• Usually administered once daily, often in the morning
• Dose may be adjusted gradually based on clinical response
• The suspension should be shaken well before use
• May be taken with or without food
Because of fluoxetine’s long half-life, dosing adjustments may be less frequent compared to other SSRIs.
Patients should take the medication consistently as prescribed and should not stop abruptly without medical advice.

Mechanisms of Action
Fluoxetine is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI).
Its mechanisms include:
Inhibition of serotonin reuptake
Fluoxetine blocks the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) into presynaptic neurons.
Increased serotonin availability
This increases serotonin levels in the synaptic cleft.
Improved mood and emotional regulation
Enhanced serotonergic transmission helps improve mood, anxiety, and compulsive behaviours.

Contraindications
Fluoxetine suspension should not be used in patients with:
• Hypersensitivity to fluoxetine or any component of the formulation
• Concurrent use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within the recommended washout period
• Use with certain medications that may result in serious interactions

Precautions
Fluoxetine should be used with caution in patients with:
• History of suicidal ideation or behaviour, particularly in children and young adults
• Bipolar disorder, due to risk of mania
• Seizure disorders
• Hepatic impairment
• Concurrent use of serotonergic medications
Additional considerations include:
• Risk of serotonin syndrome, especially when combined with other serotonergic drugs
• Common side effects may include:
• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Headache
• Anxiety or agitation
• Therapeutic effects may take several weeks to become apparent
• Abrupt discontinuation should be avoided
• Patients should seek medical advice if they experience worsening mood, suicidal thoughts, or unusual behavioural changes

Storage
• Store below 25°C unless otherwise directed
• Keep the suspension in a tightly closed container
• Shake well before use
• Protect from heat, moisture, and direct light
• Some compounded suspensions may have a limited shelf life
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
Patients should follow the specific storage and expiry instructions provided on the dispensing label supplied by the pharmacy.