How Long Does Prozac/Fluxotine Take to Work?

Prozac is the brand name for the generic version of Fluoxetine. It is one of the most commonly used selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors for the treatment of anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and many other mental health disorders. 

You may wonder how long it takes for Prozac to work. Several factors are considered, and we will examine them in this blog.

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How Does Fluxotine Work?

Prozac increases the serotonin levels in the brain, which is responsible for regulating mood and reducing the symptoms of depression.  Low levels of serotonin cause depression and anxiety. 

Studies show that although Prozac is effective in treating different mental health conditions, you won’t see the result that quickly, so yes, if you want immediate results, Prozac is not for you.

That raises the question of how long it takes for Prozac to work.

How Long Does it Take for Prozac to Work? 

For the majority of people using Fluoxetine, the results will be visible within two weeks. They will notice better sleeping patterns, raised energy levels, and better appetite. However, this is a general timeframe. Not everyone will see results this quickly. Many factors matter here. So, some people respond better and see quicker results; for others, it takes time. Nonetheless, no one can say for sure how long it takes for Prozac to work for you.

How Long Does it Take for Prozac to Work? Week by Week Review

Let’s get into greater detail now on how long it takes for Prozac to work. We will be segmenting the time frame into 4;

Week 1

You won’t notice much change when you start the medicine during the first week. However, for some, an increase in energy levels and decreased appetite may be a side effect as the drug interacts with the serotonin receptors in the brain.

Week 2

By week two, people may notice drastic changes in their outlook on life. With a better emotional state, people will feel less anxious and depressed and more calm and happier. They will be motivated and focused when completing daily tasks.

Week 3

After completing the third week of the Prozac treatment, you will generally feel better. Symptoms will still exist but will not be hindering or less severe.

Week 4

At this point, people notice dramatic improvements in their mental state. They will feel happy, less anxious, less depressed and much better at operating daily. 

Note: People taking higher dosages should decrease their dosage by the end of week four after consulting with their mental healthcare providers.

Can You See Visible Results Instantly?

See, Prozac is not a magic potion. If your health care provider prescribed you fluoxetine and you are wondering, can I see instant results? The straight answer is NO!

Most people respond within two weeks with the correct drug administration. That said, some people even see results and a decrease in their symptoms of anxiety sooner than that. Or even after taking the first dosage.

Regardless of the potency you are on, no one can say for sure how long it takes for Prozac to work. The only way to find out is by starting with the treatment plan your doctor gave. Follow the medical advice and wait. If, even after a month or so, you don’t feel any better, there are other treatment options for you. Sometimes, it just takes time, but that doesn’t mean the drug is not working; maybe your body needs more time.

How Long Does Prozac Take to Work?

In this section, we will be looking at the time taken for project to work for anxiety, OCD panic disorder and depression

1. Prozac for Anxiety

The exact time for how long it takes for Prozac to work for anxiety depends on different factors like;

• Age of the individual
• Dosage
• Medical history
• And the seriousness of the condition

Not many studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of Prozac for generalised anxiety disorders. For GAD, other SSRIs like Lexapro for anxiety OR Zoloft are prescribed. And at times, cognitive-behavioral therapy along with antidepressants.

2. Prozac for Depression

The American Psychiatric Association claims that it can take 4-8 weeks for antidepressants to work for depression. However, it is also possible to notice a few symptoms that have reduced earlier. So, in around two weeks, see a decline in your depressive symptoms. If after 4-weeks you don’t feel better, consult your healthcare provider. Increasing the dosage might help.

3. Prozac for OCD

If you are thinking how long it takes for Prozac to work for OCD, the answer is 4-6 weeks to see visible results. And for some, up to 12 weeks. Even if you don’t notice any change after that, consult your doctor. Do not change the dosage or stop the medicine on your own.

4. Prozac for Bulimia/eating disorder 

How long it takes for Prozac to work for bulimia is not confirmed. Not many studies have been done in this regard. However, studies show people using Prozac for bulimia notice a change within 3-weeks. 

5. Prozac for Panic Disorder

After starting the drug for panic disorder, some people respond in 3 to 4 weeks. 

How Does it Feel When Prozac Starts to Work?

When any antidepressant medications start showing effect, you might feel anxious, more active, and calm.

Some other feelings associated with Prozac working are;

• Less negativity
• Better energy levels
• Better sleep patterns
• Improved self-esteem
• Less stressed
• And decrease in irritability

Factors Affecting the Onset of Prozac

The following factors determine how fast the drug works. So, if you want to know how long it takes for Prozac to work for you, check the following factors beforehand;

• Body Weight—Overweight and obese people may find it longer to see noticeable results in the drug’s working. Fat cells absorb the medication, so the more fat cells, the more absorption.
• Metabolism– people with a fast metabolism may see quicker results when working on Prozac.
• Age: Older adults need higher dosages due to their slow metabolism. Thus, they need more time to see any changes in their symptoms.
• Dosage—Finally, the dosage you are on dramatically affects how long it takes for Prozac to work. Finding the correct dosage is essential, as too low a dose will not work, and too high a dose will cause dizziness and nausea, among other side effects.

Many other things affect the onset time of the drug. Some of them are alcohol, caffeine and stress.

What to Do When Prozac is Not Working?

At times, people notice that Prozac is not working for them. No matter how long it takes for Prozac to work, if you don’t feel better after weeks of treatment, it’s time to talk to your medical professional. They will increase the dosage and try another antidepressant.

Alternatives to Prozac. Commonly Prescribed Antidepressants 

• Other SSRIs- Lexapro, Zoloft

Zoloft may be prescribed alone or in combination with Wellbutrin for treating major depressive disorder. Find out how well Zoloft and Wellbutrin work for MDD.

• SNRIs

SNRIs- serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors are another class of antidepressants that are more effective than SSRIs but also have more side effects. An example of SSRI is Paxil.

• NDRIs like Wellbutrin XL or Wellbutrin SR

Wellbutrin or bupropion belongs to the norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitors class of medications. If other antidepressants are not working, your doctor will prescribe Wellbutrin. With the correct dosage, it takes around two weeks to notice mood changes. 

Common signs that Wellbutrin is working for you will help you determine whether the drug is working. Wellbutrin also helps with social anxiety. The best part about Wellbutrin is it does not cause weight gain. Find out its effectiveness for depression and anxiety disorders.

• Alprazolam or Xanax

Xanax belongs to a class of drugs called benzodiazepines. In the 1960s, it was prescribed for anxiety disorders and depression. Xanax is not the first-line treatment for depression, and it works on reducing the symptoms only, not treating the underlying cause of the depressive symptoms. If you suffer from insomnia, your doctor might prescribe Xanax for sleep. 

Read this blog on how to get Xanax prescribed to you. Xanax is similar to Ativan. Both are benzos but have a few differences.

• Natural Remedies

Apart from antidepressants, you can try natural remedies if the symptoms of anxiety are mild. Try yoga, herbal supplements, acupuncture and meditation. Talk to your doctor about cognitive behavioural therapy and psychotherapy.

Potential Side Effects of Prozac

Like other antidepressants, Prozac leads to side effects. The side effects vary, depending on the diagnosis it’s given for

Side Effects of Prozac for Depressive Disorder

Some common side effects for people using it for depression are as follows;

• Insomnia
• Nervousness
• Nausea
• Anxiety
• Diarrhea

Side Effects of Prozac for OCD

Some common side effects in individuals using it for OCD are as follows;

• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Decreased appetite
• Sleepiness
• Diarrhea

Side Effects of Prozac for Bulimia

Some common side effects in people with bulimia are as follows;

• Anxiety
• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Fatigue
• sleepiness

Side Effects of Prozac for Panic Disorder

Some common side effects in people using it for panic disorder are as follows;

• Weakness
• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Nervousness
• Insomnia

Mild Side Effects of Prozac

Some people reported mild side effects, as follows;

• upset stomach
• low sex drive
• Skin rash
• sweating
• tremor 
• dry mouth
• flu symptoms
• Nausea
• diarrhoea
• sleepiness
• fatigue
• mild anxiety*
• Insomnia
• abnormal dreams
• abnormal ejaculation
• nervousness

In most cases, the side effects reduce as the body becomes used to the drug. however, consult your doctor if the symptoms are not going on their own or if it’s affecting your daily life. No matter what happens do not stop the medication on your own.

Serious Side Effects of Prozac

Sometimes Prozac leads to some serious side effects. these side effects are more common in people suffering from pre-existing mental health care conditions like bipolar disorder, individuals suffering from suicidal thoughts and behaviour

Some common adverse effects reported by people are

• serotonin syndrome
• Seizures
• Mania
• Bleeding
• Severe anxiety
• Insomnia
• Serious allergic reaction
• Suicidal Behaviour and thoughts
• Low levels of sodium in the blood and
• Decreasing appetite
• risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviours

Side Effects in Children

Children under the age of 17 who are on the project report similar side effects as adults. however, suicidal thoughts are more severe in children, suicidal thoughts are more severe in children.

Side effects reported in children are

• Irritable nature
• Excessive thirst
• Personality disorder
• Excessive movements in certain parts of the muscles
• Nosebleeds
• Urge to urinate
• Prolonged periods

The Bottom Line

To answer the question, how long does it take for Prozac to work? The answer would depend on the factors we just defined above. You don’t have to live fighting anxiety disorders and depression when help is just around the corner. 

These are medical conditions that require professional medical help. consult medical healthcare professionals and discuss all the questions you have in mind. List down the following symptoms you notice and tell the doctor. They will give the correct prescription medications depending on the conditions.

You’re stronger than you know, and every small step forward is a victory. Keep believing in your resilience; brighter days are ahead.

FAQS

1. What is the success rate of Prozac?

Prozac has an average rating of 7.4/10 for the treatment of stress and anxiety. This average is based on a total of 648 reviews. 67% of people reported that Prozac worked for them.

2. Does Prozac stop overthinking?

In a way, yes. When someone takes Prozac, it reduces the frequency of the panic attacks. For OCD, it reduces intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviours.

3. Does Prozac take away emotions?

Some people reported feeling emotionally null after using Prozac treatment. Fluxotine targets serotonin in the brain. 

4. Can Prozac make you talkative?

Talking excessively is a sign of mania, and Prozac has a mania warning. Some symptoms to look out for are; talking more than usual, or faster, a racing mind, and trouble sleeping. If you have a preexisting bipolar disorder, tell your doctor before starting Prozac