Prozac

Prozac (Fluoxetine), the first medication discovered in the classification of medications called Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRI’s), is often a first-line treatment for many mood and psychiatric disorders. Prozac works by preventing serotonin from being stored in the neuron of the brain and allows the serotonin to be more available to use in the synapse of the neuron, making it more readily available to treat low mood and anxiety.

HOW DOES IT WORK?

Prozac works by blocking the serotonin receptors from reabsorbing serotonin and leaves serotonin in the synapse so it can be more available to use in the brain. Prozac works by giving the feeling of well-being, happiness, and good mood. By using Prozac to make serotonin more available, we can increase mood, decrease anxiety, and increase the feeling of well-being, helping you to feel happier and more relaxed.

HISTORY

Prozac, originally developed by Eli Lilly in 1972, became the first SSRI approved for major depressive disorder in 1987. Originally thinking the medication would not do well, it became the first-line treatment for depression in the 1990s. Prozac worked so well, it started to be used to treat depression, anxiety, PTSD, and other common psychiatric disorders.

TODAY

Now, due to the effectiveness and low incidence of side effects, Prozac is still considered a first-line treatment for depression and anxiety disorders. Other medications have been added to this classification over the years, including Celexa, Lexapro, Zoloft, and Paxil.

Written by Nurse Audra, with guidance from Dr. Edwards