Fluoxetine -  The Big Seller -  Its side effects &  Interactions

SAFPJ Editor

Fluoxetine - The Big Seller - Its side effects & Interactions

SAFPJ Editor SA Academy of Family Practice/Primary Care

Abstract

Fluoxetine (Prozac) has fast become a big seller in the relatively short period it has been on the market. Although not inexpensive, one of its main claims to fame is the advantage that in overdose it is safer than the tricyclic antidepressants (TCA's) which are potentially severely cardiotoxic. It is claimed to be equivalent in efficacy to imipramine. All cxisting treatments for depression, in particular the tricyclics have drawbacks. The tricyclic antidepressants (viz; imipramine (Tofranil), amitriptyline (Tryptanol etc) are associated with some unpleasant side-effects which reduce compliance and compromise treatment.

Untitled

Issue

Vol 12 No 3 (1991)

Section

Regulars

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