Sarafem (fluoxetine) Coupons, Discounts & Cost
Sarafem (fluoxetine) is a drug that belongs to the group of antidepressants. One way to save money on the Sarafem (fluoxetine) retail cost regardless of income and insurance status is to use Sarafem (fluoxetine) coupons or discount cards from RXCoupons. Use our Sarafem (fluoxetine) coupons at your online pharmacy and receive up to 75% off the sale price each time you refill your prescription.
Sarafem (fluoxetine) pharmacological action
Sarafem (fluoxetine) is a drug that belongs to the group of antidepressants. It is widely used for the treatment of depressive states, including feeling of fear, anxiety, apathy. It helps improve mood and mental alertness, as well as normalize sleep and appetite.
The active chemicals of the drug can influence the processes of production of serotonin. This substance regulates the nervous processes in the brain and nervous tissue. Deficiency of serotonin leads to migraine and depression.
Fluoxetine does not cause orthostatic hypotension. It has no negative effect on the myocardium. Fluoxetine is well absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract.
Fluoxetine therapy should last at least one to two weeks.
Sarafem (fluoxetine) indications
Sarafem (fluoxetine) is taken in the following cases: treatment of depressive states, obsessive-compulsive disorders, disorders of appetite (anorexia, bulimia), premenstrual dysphoric disorder.
Sarafem (fluoxetine) dosage
For the treatment of depression patients usually take 1 tablet (20 mg) once a day, preferably in the morning. In case of insufficient effectiveness, the dose may be increased to 2 tablets (40 mg) per day. The maximum allowable daily dose is 4 tablets (80 mg), and for elderly patients - 3 tablets (60 mg).
For treatment of bulimia patients usually take 1 tablet three times a day. For treatment of compulsive disorders - from 1 to 3 tablets (20-60 mg) per day.
For treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder patients usually take 1 tablet (20 mg) per day.
Patients with impaired hepatic and renal function should lower the dose and change the interval between doses.
The duration of treatment depends on the severity of the disease and the effectiveness of the therapy. The minimum duration of treatment is at least 3 weeks, and the maximum - several years.
Sarafem (fluoxetine) side effects
Sarafem therapy may lead to unwanted side effects:
Nervous system: headache, fatigue, dizziness, weakness, anxiety, mania, suicidal thoughts and behaviors.
Digestive tract: loss of appetite, dyspepsia, dry mouth, excessive salivation.
Other reactions: decreased libido, sweating, weight loss, allergic reactions.
Sarafem (fluoxetine) contraindications
Fluoxetine is contraindicated in the following cases: hypersensitivity, atony of the bladder, angle-closure glaucoma, severe hepatic or renal failure, treatment with MAO inhibitors, pregnancy and lactation, increased risk of suicide, hypertrophy of the prostate.
Fluoxetine should be used with extreme caution in patients suffering from Parkinson's syndrome, epilepsy, diabetes, anorexia.
Diabetics taking Fluoxetine should regularly check their blood glucose levels. In this case, it is necessary to adjust the dose of hypoglycemic drugs.
Sarafem (fluoxetine) interaction with other drugs
Fluoxetine enhances the effects of alcohol, diazepam and drugs lowering blood glucose levels. It may increase the concentration of tricyclic antidepressants.
Fluoxetine should not be used in patients treated with electroconvulsive therapy (due to possible seizures).
Tryptophan with fluoxetine may cause increased agitation, motor restlessness, disorders of the gastrointestinal tract.
MAO inhibitors increase the risk of serotonin syndrome (hyperthermia, chills, sweating, hyperreflexia, tremor, diarrhea, lack of coordination, agitation, delusions, coma).
Anticoagulants and digoxin may increase the risk of adverse effects.
Sarafem (fluoxetine) overdose
Seek immediate medical care in case of accidental overdose. No specific antidote available.
Sarafem (fluoxetine) storage conditions
Store the drug at room temperature. Keep out of reach of children. Fluoxetine should not be used after the expiry date.