Posac
Generic Name
Fluoxetine
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
posac 100 mg tablet | ৳ 200.00 | ৳ 2,000.00 |
posac 18 mg injection | ৳ 2,000.00 | N/A |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Posac (Fluoxetine) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and bulimia nervosa. It helps restore the balance of a natural substance (serotonin) in the brain.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
For Major Depressive Disorder, typically 20 mg once daily, may be increased to a maximum of 60 mg/day. For OCD, 20-60 mg/day. For Bulimia Nervosa, 60 mg once daily.
Elderly
Start with a lower dose (e.g., 10 mg/day) and increase gradually. Maximum 60 mg/day.
Renal_impairment
No specific dose adjustment for mild to moderate impairment. Use with caution in severe impairment.
How to Take
Posac capsules are taken orally, usually once daily in the morning, with or without food. It should be swallowed whole with water.
Mechanism of Action
Fluoxetine selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin (5-HT) in the central nervous system, leading to an increase in serotonin concentration in the synaptic cleft. This potentiation of serotonergic neurotransmission is thought to be responsible for its antidepressant effects.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Therapeutic effects may take 1-4 weeks to become apparent.
Excretion
Primarily via renal excretion of metabolites.
Half life
Fluoxetine: 1-3 days; Norfluoxetine (active metabolite): 4-16 days.
Absorption
Well absorbed orally, peak plasma concentrations reached in 6-8 hours.
Metabolism
Extensive hepatic metabolism, primarily by CYP2D6, to its active metabolite norfluoxetine.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to fluoxetine or any component of the formulation.
- Concomitant use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI.
- Concomitant use of thioridazine or pimozide.
Drug Interactions
MAOIs
Risk of serotonin syndrome (hyperthermia, rigidity, myoclonus, autonomic instability, mental status changes).
Warfarin/NSAIDs
Increased risk of bleeding due potentiation of anticoagulant effects.
Thioridazine/Pimozide
Increased risk of QT prolongation and cardiac arrhythmias. Contraindicated.
Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs)
Increased plasma levels of TCAs, requiring dose adjustment.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include nausea, vomiting, seizures, tachycardia, somnolence, and coma. Management involves supportive care, maintaining a patent airway, monitoring cardiac and vital signs, and gastric lavage or activated charcoal if appropriate. There is no specific antidote.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Fluoxetine is excreted in human milk; use with caution in nursing mothers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Generally 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture, specific details on packaging.
Availability
Available in all registered pharmacies in Bangladesh.
Approval Status
Approved by regulatory bodies worldwide, including FDA and DGDA.
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have established the efficacy and safety of fluoxetine for its approved indications. Ongoing research continues to explore new applications and optimize treatment strategies.
Lab Monitoring
- Liver function tests in patients with hepatic impairment.
- Electrolyte levels (especially sodium) in patients at risk of hyponatremia.
- Blood glucose in diabetic patients, as fluoxetine may affect glycemic control.
Doctor Notes
- Monitor patients closely for suicidality, especially at the initiation of therapy or after dose changes.
- Educate patients about the risk of serotonin syndrome, particularly with concomitant use of other serotonergic agents.
- Advise patients on gradual discontinuation to minimize withdrawal symptoms.
Patient Guidelines
- Take the medicine regularly as prescribed, do not stop abruptly without consulting a doctor.
- Report any worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, or unusual behavioral changes immediately.
- Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine.
- Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as remembered. If it is close to the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose.
Driving Precautions
Posac may cause dizziness, drowsiness, or blurred vision. Patients should exercise caution when driving or operating machinery until they are certain the medicine does not adversely affect their ability to perform such activities.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise.
- Practice stress-reduction techniques.
- Ensure adequate sleep.
- Avoid smoking and excessive caffeine intake.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.