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Prozac: The Way of Life in Social Medicine

David Peterson

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Published in Prozac As A Way Of Life (Studies In Social Medicine)

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Prozac, the popular antidepressant, has been a staple of American medicine for decades. It is one of the most prescribed drugs in the world, and it has helped millions of people overcome depression and anxiety. But what is Prozac, exactly? And how does it work?

Prozac as a Way of Life (Studies in Social Medicine)

by Carl Elliott

4 out of 5

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What is Prozac?

Prozac is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). SSRIs are a class of antidepressants that work by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is involved in mood regulation, sleep, and appetite. By increasing serotonin levels, SSRIs can help to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote sleep.

Prozac was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1987. It is available in both brand-name and generic forms. Prozac is typically taken once or twice a day, with or without food.

How does Prozac work?

Prozac works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin in the brain. Reuptake is the process by which neurotransmitters are removed from the synapse and recycled back into the presynaptic neuron. By blocking reuptake, Prozac allows serotonin to remain in the synapse for a longer period of time, which increases its effects.

The increased levels of serotonin in the brain can help to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote sleep. Prozac can also help to reduce symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disFree Download (OCD) and eating disFree Downloads.

Side effects of Prozac

Prozac is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause side effects in some people. The most common side effects of Prozac include:

* Nausea * Diarrhea * Constipation * Headache * Dizziness * Dry mouth * Insomnia

These side effects are usually mild and go away within a few weeks. However, if you experience any severe side effects, you should stop taking Prozac and contact your doctor.

Interactions with other drugs

Prozac can interact with other drugs, including:

* Blood thinners * Anticonvulsants * Lithium * St. John's wort

Be sure to tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking before you start taking Prozac.

Alternatives to Prozac

There are a number of other antidepressants available, including:

* Celexa (citalopram) * Lexapro (escitalopram) * Paxil (paroxetine) * Zoloft (sertraline)

If you are not sure which antidepressant is right for you, talk to your doctor.

Prozac is a safe and effective antidepressant that can help to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and promote sleep. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects of Prozac and to talk to your doctor before you start taking it.

Prozac as a Way of Life (Studies in Social Medicine)

by Carl Elliott

4 out of 5