Prolert 20

Indications

• Prolert is prescribed for the treatment of:
  • Depressive illness
  • Bulimia nervosa
  • Obsessive compulsive disorder

Pharmacology

• Fluoxetine selectively inhibits serotonin reuptake, leading to increased synaptic serotonin levels in the CNS.
• It primarily affects serotonergic neurotransmission without impacting norepinephrine or dopamine reuptake.

Dosage & Administration

• Initial treatment: Recommended starting dose is 20 mg/day in the morning.
• Dosage adjustment may be considered after several weeks, not exceeding 80 mg/day.
• Maintenance treatment: Duration varies, typically lasting several months or longer.
• Use in children is not recommended due to lack of established safety and efficacy.

Interaction

Caution advised with concomitant use of MAO inhibitors, antidepressants, lithium, antipsychotics, anticonvulsants, and CNS active drugs.

Contraindications

• Avoid in patients hypersensitive to fluoxetine hydrochloride.
• Contraindicated with MAOIs or within 14 days of discontinuing therapy with MAOIs.

Side Effects

• Gastrointestinal: Nausea, vomiting, dyspepsia, dry mouth, diarrhea.
• Neurological: Anxiety, nervousness, insomnia/drowsiness, fatigue.
• Other: Excessive sweating, pruritus, skin rashes.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Use in pregnancy only if clearly needed.
• Caution advised when administered to nursing women due to excretion in human milk.

Precautions & Warnings

• Use with caution and in reduced doses in patients with impaired hepatic or renal function.
• Caution warranted in patients with epilepsy or diabetic subjects.
• Depressed patients with suicidal tendencies should be carefully supervised.

Therapeutic Class

Phenothiazine related drugs

Storage Conditions

Protect from light and moisture, store below 30°C, keep out of reach of children.