Frequently Asked Questions About PROZAC Many people call or write to us with questions about PROZAC or about depression. Below, Dr. John Plewes, Clinical Research Physician at Eli Lilly and Company, answers some frequently asked questions. Dr. Plewes' comments are educational only; they are not intended as medical advice and should not be used for diagnosing or treating depression. If you have questions about your medical condition, please contact your doctor.
I have recently been prescribed PROZAC 20 mg once a day. How should I take it?
As with any prescription medication, you should follow your doctor's advice when taking PROZAC. The general recommendation is to take PROZAC in the morning. PROZAC can be taken with or without food. If you miss a dose, don't take a double dose. Just continue with your next scheduled dose.
I just started treatment for my depression with PROZAC. How long should it take for PROZAC to start working?
The first goal of treatment is to relieve the symptoms of depression that are disrupting your life. Symptom relief usually takes a few weeks, although some symptoms may improve during the first week of treatment. It may take 4 or more weeks to experience the full benefits of treatment with PROZAC. Be sure to discuss how you are feeling with your doctor throughout your treatment.
You should know that the recommended length of treatment with an antidepressant is 6 to 12 months, because one of the long-term goals of treatment is to keep depression from troubling you again.
If you are prescribed PROZAC for the treatment of depression, your doctor will monitor your progress and work with you to determine the appropriate length of your treatment.
I have been taking PROZAC for a while now and am feeling much better. How long will I have to keep taking it?
The recommended length of treatment with an antidepressant, including PROZAC, is 6 to 12 months. One of the long-term goals of treatment is to keep depression from troubling you again. You should continue as your doctor advises.
During the course of your treatment, your doctor will monitor your progress and work with you to determine the appropriate length of your treatment.
The first step is to talk with your doctor. Explain the symptoms you've been experiencing. The doctor may recommend a physical checkup to determine whether there is an underlying physical reason for your symptoms of depression. If depression is diagnosed, your physician may make a referral to a qualified mental health professional, such as a psychiatrist, psychologist, social worker, or counselor. Only your doctor or a psychiatrist can prescribe medicine for your depression. The other mental health professionals who are not physicians can provide psychotherapy (talk therapy) and they often work with a physician to make sure their patients receive medications if they need them.
I've heard some things recently about "PROZAC and suicide". Where can I get more information about that?
