Loxetine
Generic Name
Fluoxetine
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| loxetine 30 mg tablet | ৳ 15.00 | ৳ 150.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Fluoxetine is an antidepressant belonging to the Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) class, used to treat various mood and anxiety disorders.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For MDD, 20 mg once daily, may be increased to 30 mg or 60 mg/day after several weeks if no clinical improvement. For OCD, 20 mg once daily, may increase up to 60-80 mg/day. For Bulimia Nervosa, 60 mg once daily. Dosage for Loxetine 30 mg would be a specific titrated dose for relevant indications.
Elderly
Lower initial doses (e.g., 10 mg/day) are recommended, with careful titration based on clinical response and tolerability.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment needed for mild to moderate renal impairment. Use with caution in severe renal impairment.
How to Take
Loxetine 30 mg Tablet should be taken orally, once daily, with or without food. It is generally recommended to take it in the morning to avoid insomnia.
Mechanism of Action
Fluoxetine selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) into presynaptic neurons, thereby increasing the concentration of serotonin in the synaptic cleft and enhancing serotonergic neurotransmission.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Initial therapeutic effects typically observed within 2-4 weeks of continuous treatment, with full benefits taking longer.
Excretion
Primarily renal, with approximately 60% of an administered dose excreted in the urine.
Half life
Fluoxetine: 4-6 days; Norfluoxetine (active metabolite): 4-16 days.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally. Peak plasma concentration reached in 6-8 hours.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by CYP2D6, to its active metabolite norfluoxetine.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Concomitant use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI (due to risk of serotonin syndrome).
- Concomitant use with thioridazine or pimozide (due to increased risk of QT prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias).
- Known hypersensitivity to fluoxetine or any component of the formulation.
Drug Interactions
Thioridazine, Pimozide
Increased risk of QT prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias.
Warfarin, Aspirin, NSAIDs
Increased risk of bleeding due to effects on platelet function.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
Increased plasma levels of TCAs.
MAOIs (e.g., phenelzine, selegiline)
Severe, potentially fatal serotonin syndrome.
Drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 (e.g., atomoxetine, some beta-blockers)
Fluoxetine is a potent CYP2D6 inhibitor, potentially increasing plasma levels of co-administered drugs.
Other serotonergic drugs (e.g., tramadol, triptans, St. John's Wort)
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include nausea, vomiting, seizures, somnolence, sinus tachycardia, and EKG changes. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, including maintaining an open airway, monitoring cardiac and vital signs, and standard supportive measures.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Fluoxetine is excreted into breast milk; caution is advised when administered to a nursing mother.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Concomitant use with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI (due to risk of serotonin syndrome).
- Concomitant use with thioridazine or pimozide (due to increased risk of QT prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias).
- Known hypersensitivity to fluoxetine or any component of the formulation.
Drug Interactions
Thioridazine, Pimozide
Increased risk of QT prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias.
Warfarin, Aspirin, NSAIDs
Increased risk of bleeding due to effects on platelet function.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
Increased plasma levels of TCAs.
MAOIs (e.g., phenelzine, selegiline)
Severe, potentially fatal serotonin syndrome.
Drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 (e.g., atomoxetine, some beta-blockers)
Fluoxetine is a potent CYP2D6 inhibitor, potentially increasing plasma levels of co-administered drugs.
Other serotonergic drugs (e.g., tramadol, triptans, St. John's Wort)
Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include nausea, vomiting, seizures, somnolence, sinus tachycardia, and EKG changes. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive, including maintaining an open airway, monitoring cardiac and vital signs, and standard supportive measures.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Fluoxetine is excreted into breast milk; caution is advised when administered to a nursing mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, depending on the specific manufacturer's guidelines.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Generic available, original patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Fluoxetine has undergone extensive clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety across various indications, leading to its widespread use in psychiatry. Ongoing research continues to explore its full therapeutic potential.
Lab Monitoring
- Baseline and periodic assessment of renal and hepatic function (especially in patients with pre-existing impairment).
- Monitoring of sodium levels in patients at risk of hyponatremia.
- ECG monitoring in patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions or those on concomitant QT-prolonging drugs.
Doctor Notes
- Closely monitor patients for clinical worsening and emergence of suicidality, especially during the initial phase of treatment or dose changes.
- Caution advised in patients with a history of seizures, mania/hypomania, or liver impairment. Adjust dosage accordingly in severe hepatic impairment.
- Educate patients about the risk of serotonin syndrome and drug interactions, particularly with MAOIs and other serotonergic agents.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Loxetine 30 mg exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dose or stop taking it without consulting your doctor.
- It may take several weeks for the full therapeutic effects to become apparent. Continue taking the medication even if you don't feel immediate improvement.
- Report any new or worsening symptoms, especially changes in mood, behavior, or suicidal thoughts, to your doctor immediately.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Driving Precautions
Loxetine 30 mg may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Patients should assess their ability to perform tasks requiring mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Avoid consuming alcohol while taking this medication, as it can worsen side effects and impair judgment.
- Engage in regular physical activity and maintain a balanced diet to support overall mental and physical well-being.
- Practice stress management techniques such as mindfulness or meditation to complement your treatment.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
Other Medicines in Loxetine Brand
Other medicines available under the same brand name
