Pharmacology Of Fluoxetine (SSRI) - The Antidepressant Medication

Video transcript :- Fluoxetine belongs to the drug class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and is primarily used as an antidepressant among its other uses. Major indications for Fluoxetine include the following. Major depressive disorder, commonly known as depression. Generalized anxiety disorder. Obsessive-compulsive disorder. Panic disorder. Bulimia nervosa. Premenstrual dysphoric disorder. And in the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. Fluoxetine works by selectively inhibiting the serotonin transporter, or SERT, which prevents the reuptake of the neurotransmitter serotonin into presynaptic neurons. This action increases the levels of serotonin in the synaptic cleft, which enhances serotonergic neurotransmission, leading to improved mood and emotional regulation. Unlike older antidepressants such as tricyclic antidepressants, fluoxetine has minimal effects on norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake. Fluoxetine is administered orally, and is available as tablets, capsules, and liquid formulations. Delayed release capsules are also available and used for weekly dosing in some individuals. The drug is well absorbed into the body with an oral bioavailability of more than 70%. Once in the bloodstream, it is highly plasma protein bound. The drug is primarily metabolized in the liver by converting into active metabolite norfluoxetine. Excretion is primarily through urine. Some common adverse effects of fluoxetine include the following. Neurological effects such as Insomnia, agitation, headache, anxiety, confusion, autonomic instability, and restlessness. Sexual dysfunction, including decreased libido, and delayed ejaculation. Gastrointestinal effects such as nausea, diarrhea, and dry mouth. Cardiovascular effects such as QT prolongation. Reduced appetite, which can lead to weight loss. Serotonin syndrome, typically in overdose. Hyperthermia. And muscle rigidity. Absolute contraindications for the use of fluoxetine include the following. Concurrent use with MAO inhibitors such as phenelzine and selegiline as it increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. And hypersensitivity to fluoxetine. Relative contraindications include bipolar disorder, as fluoxetine can trigger manic episodes. Severe hepatic impairment. And pregnancy. #fluoxetine #ssris #serotonin #depression #antidepressants #medtoday #medicaleducation #pharmacology #medicalknowledge #healtheducation #healthknowledge