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Fluoxetine
Fluoxetine Hydrochloride · Solution
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC Directory| Ingredient | Strength | RxCUI | Monograph |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fluoxetine Hydrochloride | 20 mg/5mL | 1190110 | View |
Forms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor [EPC] | EPC | All 51 members |
| Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 73 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 076015-001 | FLUOXETINE HYDROCHLORIDE | SOLUTION | FLUOXETINE HYDROCHLORIDE | Discontinued | AA |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — no known or suspected bioequivalence problems (conventional dosage forms)
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 23 | Labeling | Approved | August 21, 2023 | Standard |
| Supplement | 22 | Labeling | Approved | September 21, 2021 | Standard |
| Supplement | 20 | Labeling | Approved | August 27, 2021 | Standard |
| Supplement | 16 | Labeling | Approved | August 27, 2021 | Standard |
| Supplement | 13 | Labeling | Approved | January 4, 2017 | Standard |
| Supplement | 12 | Labeling | Approved | December 27, 2016 | Standard |
| Supplement | 11 | Labeling | Approved | September 11, 2014 | Standard |
| Supplement | 10 | Labeling | Approved | August 11, 2014 | Standard |
| Supplement | 8 | Labeling | Approved | July 26, 2013 | — |
| Supplement | 9 | Labeling | Approved | July 31, 2012 | — |
| Supplement | 7 | Labeling | Approved | September 20, 2010 | — |
| Supplement | 6 | Labeling | Approved | December 28, 2009 | — |
| Supplement | 4 | Labeling | Approved | January 2, 2009 | — |
| Supplement | 2 | Labeling | Approved | January 31, 2006 | — |
| Original application | 1 | Approved | January 30, 2002 | — |
Review documents
- Safety Labeling Change Order Letter · Original application · May 1, 2018
- 0 · Original application · August 1, 2005
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20250623). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Boxed Warning
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNING: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults in short-term studies. These studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors with antidepressant use in patients over age 24; there was a reduction in risk with antidepressant use in patients aged 65 and older. [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. In patients of all ages who are started on antidepressant therapy, monitor closely for worsening and for emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Advise families and caregivers of the need for close observation and communication with the prescriber. [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ]. Fluoxetine is not approved for use in children less than 7 years of age [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) and Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ]. WARNING: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. Increased risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults taking antidepressants (5.1) . Monitor for worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors (5.1) .
Recent Major Changes
openFDA Drug LabelingRECENT MAJOR CHANGES Warnings and Precautions, Serotonin Syndrome ( 5.2 ) 6/2023 Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7 ) 6/2023
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE Fluoxetine oral solution is indicated for the treatment of: Acute and maintenance treatment of Major Depressive Disorder [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] . Acute and maintenance treatment of obsessions and compulsions in patients with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ]. Acute and maintenance treatment of binge-eating and vomiting behaviors in patients with moderate to severe Bulimia Nervosa [see Clinical Studies (14.3) ] . Acute treatment of Panic Disorder, with or without agoraphobia [see Clinical Studies (14.4) ]. Fluoxetine monotherapy is not indicated for the treatment of depressive episodes associated with Bipolar I Disorder or the treatment of treatment resistant depression. Fluoxetine oral solution is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor indicated for: Acute and maintenance treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) (1) Acute and maintenance treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) (1) Acute and maintenance treatment of Bulimia Nervosa (1) Acute treatment of Panic Disorder, with or without agoraphobia (1)
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Indication Adult Pediatric MDD (2.1) 20 mg/day in am (initial dose) 10 to 20 mg/day (initial dose) OCD (2.2) 20 mg/day in am (initial dose) 10 mg/day (initial dose) Bulimia Nervosa (2.3) 60 mg/day in am Panic Disorder (2.4) 10 mg/day (initial dose) A lower or less frequent dosage should be used in patients with hepatic impairment, the elderly, and for patients with concurrent disease or on multiple concomitant medications (2.7) 2.1 Major Depressive Disorder Initial Treatment Adult — Initiate fluoxetine oral solution 20 mg/day orally in the morning. Consider a dose increase after several weeks if insufficient clinical improvement is observed. Administer doses above 20 mg/day once daily in the morning or twice daily (i.e., morning and noon). The maximum fluoxetine dose should not exceed 80 mg/day. In controlled trials used to support the efficacy of fluoxetine, patients were administered morning doses ranging from 20 to 80 mg/day. Studies comparing fluoxetine 20, 40, and 60 mg/day to placebo indicate that 20 mg/day is sufficient to obtain a satisfactory response in Major Depressive Disorder in most cases [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ]. Pediatric (children and adolescents) — Initiate fluoxetine oral solution 10 or 20 mg/day. After 1 week at 10 mg/day, increase the dose to 20 mg/day. However, due to higher plasma levels in lower weight children, the starting and target dose in this group may be 10 mg/day. Consider a dose increase to 20 mg/day after several weeks if insufficient clinical improvement is observed. In the short-term (8 to 9 week) controlled clinical trials of fluoxetine supporting its effectiveness in the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder, patients were administered fluoxetine doses of 10 to 20 mg/day [see Clinical Studies (14.1) ] . All patients — As with other drugs effective in the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder, the full effect may be delayed until 4 weeks of treatment or longer. Periodically reassess to determine the need for maintenance treatment. Switching Patients to a Tricyclic Antidepressant (TCA) — Dosage of a TCA may need to be reduced, and plasma TCA concentrations may need to be monitored temporarily when fluoxetine is coadministered or has been recently discontinued [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) and Drug Interactions (7.7) ] . 2.2 Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Initial Treatment Adult — Initiate fluoxetine oral solution 20 mg/day, orally in the morning. Consider a dose increase after several weeks if insufficient clinical improvement is observed. The full therapeutic effect may be delayed until 5 weeks of treatment or longer. Administer doses above 20 mg/day once daily in the morning or twice daily (i.e., morning and noon). A dose range of 20 to 60 mg/day is recommended; however, doses of up to 80 mg/day have been well tolerated in open studies of OCD. The maximum fluoxetine dose should not exceed 80 mg/day. In the controlled clinical trials of fluoxetine supporting its effectiveness in the treatment of OCD, patients were administered fixed daily doses of 20, 40, or 60 mg of fluoxetine or placebo [see Clinical Studies (14.2) ] . In one of these studies, no dose-response relationship for effectiveness was demonstrated. Pediatric (children and adolescents) — In adolescents and higher weight children, initiate treatment with a dose of 10 mg/day. After 2 weeks, increase the dose to 20 mg/day. Consider additional dose increases after several more weeks if insufficient clinical improvement is observed. A dose range of 20 to 60 mg/day is recommended. In lower weight children, initiate treatment with a dose of 10 mg/day. Consider additional dose increases after several more weeks if insufficient clinical improvement is observed. A dose range of 20 to 30 mg/day is recommended. Experience with daily doses greater than 20 mg is very minimal, and there is no experience with doses greater than 60 mg. In the controlled clinical trial of fluoxetine supporting its effective …
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS Fluoxetine Oral Solution USP, 20 mg/5 mL is a clear, colorless peppermint flavored liquid in round amber colored glass bottle with child-resistant closure. Oral Solution: 20 mg/5 mL (3)
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS Serotonin Syndrome and MAOIs: Do not use MAOIs intended to treat psychiatric disorders with fluoxetine oral solution or within 5 weeks of stopping treatment with fluoxetine oral solution. Do not use fluoxetine oral solution within 14 days of stopping an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders. In addition, do not start fluoxetine oral solution in a patient who is being treated with linezolid or intravenous methylene blue (4.1) Pimozide: Do not use. Risk of QT prolongation and drug interaction (4.2, 5.11 , 7.7, 7.8) Thioridazine: Do not use. Risk of QT interval prolongation and elevated thioridazine plasma levels. Do not use thioridazine within 5 weeks of discontinuing fluoxetine oral solution (4.2 , 5.11 , 7.7, 7.8) 4.1 Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) The use of MAOIs intended to treat psychiatric disorders with fluoxetine oral solution or within 5 weeks of stopping treatment with fluoxetine oral solution is contraindicated because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome. The use of fluoxetine oral solution within 14 days of stopping an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders is also contraindicated [see Dosage and Administration (2.9) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] . Starting fluoxetine oral solution in a patient who is being treated with MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue is also contraindicated because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome [see Dosage and Administration (2.10) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2)] . 4.2 Other Contraindications The use of fluoxetine oral solution is contraindicated with the following: Pimozide [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) and Drug Interactions (7.7, 7.8) ] Thioridazine [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) and Drug Interactions (7.7, 7.8) ] Pimozide and thioridazine prolong the QT interval. Fluoxetine oral solution can increase the levels of pimozide and thioridazine through inhibition of CYP2D6. Fluoxetine oral solution can also prolong the QT interval.
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults: Monitor for clinical worsening and suicidal thinking and behavior (5.1) Serotonin Syndrome: Serotonin syndrome has been reported with SSRIs and SNRIs, including fluoxetine, both when taken alone, but especially when co-administered with other serotonergic agents. If such symptoms occur, discontinue fluoxetine and serotonergic agents and initiate supportive treatment. If concomitant use of fluoxetine with other serotonergic drugs is clinically warranted, patients should be made aware of a potential increased risk for serotonin syndrome, particularly during treatment initiation and dose increases (5.2) Allergic Reactions and Rash: Discontinue upon appearance of rash or allergic phenomena (5.3) Activation of Mania/Hypomania : Screen for Bipolar Disorder and monitor for mania/hypomania (5.4) Seizures: Use cautiously in patients with a history of seizures or with conditions that potentially lower the seizure threshold (5.5) Altered Appetite and Weight: Significant weight loss has occurred (5.6) Abnormal Bleeding: May increase the risk of bleeding. Use with NSAIDs, aspirin, warfarin, or other drugs that affect coagulation may potentiate the risk of gastrointestinal or other bleeding (5.7) Angle- Closure Glaucoma: Angle-closure glaucoma has occurred in patients with untreated anatomically narrow angles treated with antidepressants. ( 5.8 ) Hyponatremia: Has been reported with fluoxetine in association with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone (SIADH). Consider discontinuing if symptomatic hyponatremia occurs ( 5.9 ) Anxiety and Insomnia: May occur ( 5.10 ) QT Prolongation: QT prolongation and ventricular arrhythmia including Torsades de Pointes have been reported with fluoxetine use. Use with caution in conditions that predispose to arrhythmias or increased fluoxetine exposure. Use cautiously in patients with risk factors for QT prolongation ( 4.2 , 5.11 ) Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment: Has potential to impair judgment, thinking, and motor skills. Use caution when operating machinery ( 5.13 ) Long Half-Life: Changes in dose will not be fully reflected in plasma for several weeks ( 5.14 ) Sexual Dysfunction : Fluoxetine may cause symptoms of sexual dysfunction ( 5.17 ) 5.1 Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults Patients with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD), both adult and pediatric, may experience worsening of their depression and/or the emergence of suicidal ideation and behavior (suicidality) or unusual changes in behavior, whether or not they are taking antidepressant medications, and this risk may persist until significant remission occurs. Suicide is a known risk of depression and certain other psychiatric disorders, and these disorders themselves are the strongest predictors of suicide. There has been a long-standing concern, however, that antidepressants may have a role in inducing worsening of depression and the emergence of suicidality in certain patients during the early phases of treatment. Pooled analyses of short-term placebo-controlled trials of antidepressant drugs (SSRIs and others) showed that these drugs increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior (suicidality) in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 18 to 24) with Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders. Short-term studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidality with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults beyond age 24; there was a reduction with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults aged 65 and older. The pooled analyses of placebo-controlled trials in children and adolescents with MDD, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD), or other psychiatric disorders included a total of 24 short-term trials of 9 antidepressant drugs in over 4400 patients. The pooled analyses of placebo-controlled trials in adults with MDD or other psychiatric disorder …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in more detail in other sections of the labeling: Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Serotonin Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Allergic Reactions and Rash [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Screening Patients for Bipolar Disorder and Monitoring for Mania/Hypomania [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] Altered Appetite and Weight [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] Abnormal Bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] Angle-Closure Glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] Hyponatremia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] Anxiety and Insomnia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] QT Prolongation [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] Potential for Cognitive and Motor Impairment [see Warnings and Precautions (5.13) ] Discontinuation Adverse Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions (5.15) ] Most common adverse reactions (≥5% and at least twice that for placebo) associated with: Major Depressive Disorder, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, Bulimia, and Panic Disorder: abnormal dreams, abnormal ejaculation, anorexia, anxiety, asthenia, diarrhea, dry mouth, dyspepsia, flu syndrome, impotence, insomnia, libido decreased, nausea, nervousness, pharyngitis, rash, sinusitis, somnolence, sweating, tremor, vasodilatation, and yawn (6.1) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Saptalis Pharmaceuticals, LLC. at 1-833-727-8254 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or http://www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect or predict the rates observed in practice. Multiple doses of fluoxetine have been administered to 10,782 patients with various diagnoses in US clinical trials. In addition, there have been 425 patients administered fluoxetine in panic clinical trials. The stated frequencies represent the proportion of individuals who experienced, at least once, a treatment-emergent adverse reaction of the type listed. A reaction was considered treatment-emergent if it occurred for the first time or worsened while receiving therapy following baseline evaluation. Incidence in Major Depressive Disorder, OCD, bulimia, and Panic Disorder placebo controlled clinical trials (excluding data from extensions of trials) - Table 2 enumerates the most common treatment-emergent adverse reactions associated with the use of fluoxetine (incidence of at least 5% for fluoxetine and at least twice that for placebo within at least 1 of the indications) for the treatment of Major Depressive Disorder, OCD, and bulimia in US controlled clinical trials and Panic Disorder in US plus non-US controlled trials. Table 4 enumerates treatment-emergent adverse reactions that occurred in 2% or more patients treated with fluoxetine and with incidence greater than placebo who participated in US Major Depressive Disorder, OCD, and bulimia controlled clinical trials and US plus non-US Panic Disorder controlled clinical trials. Table 3 provides combined data for the pool of studies that are provided separately by indication in Table 2. Table 2: Most Common Treatment-Emergent Adverse Reactions: Incidence in Major Depressive Disorder, OCD, Bulimia, and Panic Disorder Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials 1,2,3 Percentage of Patients Reporting Event Major Depressive Disorder OCD Bulimia Panic Disorder Body System/ Adverse Reaction Fluoxetine (N=1,728) Placebo (N=975) Fluoxetine (N=266) Placebo (N=89) Fluoxetine (N=450) Placebo (N=267) Fluoxetine (N=425) Placebo (N=342) Body as a Whole Asthenia 9 5 15 11 21 9 7 7 Flu syndrome 3 4 10 7 8 3 5 5 Cardiovascular System Vasodilatation 3 2 5 - 2 1 1 - Digestive System Nausea 21 9 26 13 29 …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7 DRUG INTERACTIONS As with all drugs, the potential for interaction by a variety of mechanisms (e.g., pharmacodynamic, pharmacokinetic drug inhibition or enhancement, etc.) is a possibility. Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): ( 2.9 , 2.10 , 4.1 , 5.2 ) Drug s Metabolized by CYP2D6 : Fluoxetine is a potent inhibitor of CYP2D6 enzyme pathway ( 7.7 ) Tricyclic Antidepressants (TCAs): Monitor TCA levels during coadministration with fluoxetine or when fluoxetine has been recently discontinued ( 5.2 , 7.7 ) CN S Acting Drugs: Caution should be used when taken in combination with other centrally acting drugs ( 7.2 ) Benzodiazepines: Diazepam – increased t1⁄2, alprazolam - further psychomotor performance decrement due to increased levels ( 7.7 ) Antipsychotics: Potential for elevation of haloperidol and clozapine levels ( 7.7 ) Anticonvulsants : Potential for elevated phenytoin and carbamazepine levels and clinical anticonvulsant toxicity ( 7.7 ) Serotonergic Drugs : ( 2.9 , 2.10 , 4.1 , 5.2 ) Drugs that Interfere with Hemostasis (e.g. NSAIDs, Aspirin, Warfarin) : May potentiate the risk of bleeding ( 7.4 ) Drugs Tightly Bound to Plasma Proteins : May cause a shift in plasma concentrations ( 7.6 , 7.7 ) Drugs that Prolong the QT Interval : Do not use fluoxetine with thioridazine or pimozide. Use with caution in combination with other drugs that prolong the QT interval ( 4.2 , 5.11 , 7.7 , 7.8 ) 7.1 Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI) [See Dosage and Administration (2.9 , 2.10) , Contraindications (4.1) , and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. 7.2 CNS Acting Drugs Caution is advised if the concomitant administration of fluoxetine and such drugs is required. In evaluating individual cases, consideration should be given to using lower initial doses of the concomitantly administered drugs, using conservative titration schedules, and monitoring of clinical status [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. 7.3 Serotonergic Drugs [See Dosage and Administration (2.9 , 2.10) , Contraindications (4.1) , and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. 7.4 Drugs that Interfere with Hemostasis (e.g., NSAIDS, Aspirin, Warfarin) Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Epidemiological studies of the case-control and cohort design that have demonstrated an association between use of psychotropic drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and the occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding have also shown that concurrent use of an NSAID or aspirin may potentiate this risk of bleeding. Altered anticoagulant effects, including increased bleeding, have been reported when SNRIs or SSRIs are coadministered with warfarin. Patients receiving warfarin therapy should be carefully monitored when fluoxetine is initiated or discontinued [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ]. 7.5 Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) There are no clinical studies establishing the benefit of the combined use of ECT and fluoxetine. There have been rare reports of prolonged seizures in patients on fluoxetine receiving ECT treatment. 7.6 Potential for Other Drugs to affect Fluoxetine Drugs Tightly Bound to Plasma Proteins - Because fluoxetine is tightly bound to plasma proteins, adverse effects may result from displacement of protein-bound fluoxetine by other tightly-bound drugs [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. 7.7 Potential for Fluoxetine to affect Other Drugs Pimozide - Concomitant use in patients taking pimozide is contraindicated. Pimozide can prolong the QT interval. Fluoxetine can increase the level of pimozide through inhibition of CYP2D6. Fluoxetine can also prolong the QT interval. Clinical studies of pimozide with other antidepressants demonstrate an increase in drug interaction or QT prolongation. While a specific study with pimozide and fluoxetine has not been conducted, the potential for drug interactions or QT prolongation warrants restricting the concurrent use of pimozide and fluoxetine [see Contraindications (4.2) , Warnings and Precautions (5.11) , …
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS Pregnancy: SSRI use, particularly later in pregnancy, may increase risk for persistent pulmonary hypertension and symptoms of poor adaptation (respiratory distress, temperature instability, feeding difficulty, hypotonia, tremor, irritability) in the neonate ( 8.1 ) Pediatric Use : Safety and effectiveness of fluoxetine in patients <8 years of age with Major Depressive Disorder and <7 years of age with OCD have not been established. ( 8.4 ) Hepatic Impairment: Lower or less frequent dosing may be appropriate in patients with cirrhosis ( 8.6 ) 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to antidepressants during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants at 1-844-405-6185 or visiting online at https://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-researchprograms/pregnancyregistry/antidepressants/. Risk Summary Based on data from published observational studies, exposure to SSRIs, particularly in the month before delivery, has been associated with a less than 2-fold increase in the risk of postpartum hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) and Clinical Considerations] . Available data from published epidemiologic studies and postmarketing reports over several decades have not established an increased risk of major birth defects or miscarriage. Some studies have reported an increased incidence of cardiovascular malformations; however, these studies results do not establish a causal relationship (see Data) . There are risks associated with untreated depression in pregnancy and risks of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN) (see Data) and poor neonatal adaptation with exposure to selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), including fluoxetine, during pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations). In rats and rabbits treated with fluoxetine during the period of organogenesis, there was no evidence of developmental effects at doses up to 1.6 and 3.9 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 60 mg/day given to adolescents on a mg/m 2 basis. However, in other reproductive studies in rats, an increase in stillborn pups, a decrease in pup weight, and an increase in pup deaths early after birth occurred at doses that are 1.5 times (during gestation) and 0.97 time (during gestation and lactation) the MRHD given to adolescents on a mg/m 2 basis. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the US general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2 to 4% and 15 to 20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-associated maternal and/or embryo/fetal risk Women who discontinue antidepressants during pregnancy are more likely to experience a relapse of major depression than women who continue antidepressants. This finding is from a prospective, longitudinal study that followed 201 pregnant women with a history of major depressive disorder who were euthymic and taking antidepressants at the beginning of pregnancy. Consider the risk of untreated depression when discontinuing or changing treatment with antidepressant medication during pregnancy and postpartum. Maternal Adverse Reactions Use of fluoxetine in the month before delivery may be associated with an increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ]. Fetal/Neonatal adverse reactions Neonates exposed to fluoxetine and other SSRI or SNRIs late in the third trimester have developed complications requiring prolonged hospitalization, respiratory support, and tube feeding. Such complications can arise immediately upon delivery. Reported clinical findings have included respiratory distress, c …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 Mechanism of Action Although the exact mechanism of fluoxetine is unknown, it is presumed to be linked to its inhibition of CNS neuronal uptake of serotonin.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION Fluoxetine Oral Solution USP is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor for oral administration. It is also marketed for the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (Sarafem®, fluoxetine hydrochloride). It is designated (±)-N-methyl-3-phenyl-3-[(α,α,α-trifluoro- p-tolyl)oxy]propylamine hydrochloride and has the empirical formula of C 17 H 18 F 3 NO∙HCl. Its molecular weight is 345.79. The structural formula is: Fluoxetine hydrochloride is a white to off-white crystalline solid with a solubility of 14 mg/mL in water. The oral solution contains fluoxetine hydrochloride equivalent to 20 mg per 5 mL (64.7 μmol) of fluoxetine. It also contains the following inactive ingredients: glycerin, purified water, sodium benzoate, spearmint flavoring agent, and sucrose, and may contain hydrochloric acid and/or sodium hydroxide to adjust the pH. Chemical Structure
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10 OVERDOSAGE 10.1 Human Experience Worldwide exposure to fluoxetine hydrochloride is estimated to be over 38 million patients (circa 1999). Of the 1,578 cases of overdose involving fluoxetine hydrochloride, alone or with other drugs, reported from this population, there were 195 deaths. Among 633 adult patients who overdosed on fluoxetine hydrochloride alone, 34 resulted in a fatal outcome, 378 completely recovered, and 15 patients experienced sequelae after overdosage, including abnormal accommodation, abnormal gait, confusion, unresponsiveness, nervousness, pulmonary dysfunction, vertigo, tremor, elevated blood pressure, impotence, movement disorder, and hypomania. The remaining 206 patients had an unknown outcome. The most common signs and symptoms associated with non-fatal overdosage were seizures, somnolence, nausea, tachycardia, and vomiting. The largest known ingestion of fluoxetine hydrochloride in adult patients was 8 grams in a patient who took fluoxetine alone and who subsequently recovered. However, in an adult patient who took fluoxetine alone, an ingestion as low as 520 mg has been associated with lethal outcome, but causality has not been established. Among pediatric patients (ages 3 months to 17 years), there were 156 cases of overdose involving fluoxetine alone or in combination with other drugs. Six patients died, 127 patients completely recovered, 1 patient experienced renal failure, and 22 patients had an unknown outcome. One of the six fatalities was a 9-year-old boy who had a history of OCD, Tourette’s syndrome with tics, attention deficit disorder, and fetal alcohol syndrome. He had been receiving 100 mg of fluoxetine daily for 6 months in addition to clonidine, methylphenidate, and promethazine. Mixed-drug ingestion or other methods of suicide complicated all 6 overdoses in children that resulted in fatalities. The largest ingestion in pediatric patients was 3 grams which was nonlethal. Other important adverse reactions reported with fluoxetine overdose (single or multiple drugs) include coma, delirium, ECG abnormalities (such as nodal rhythm QT interval prolongation and ventricular arrhythmias, including Torsades de Pointes-type arrhythmias), hypotension, mania, neuroleptic malignant syndrome-like reactions, pyrexia, stupor, and syncope. 10.2 Animal Experience Studies in animals do not provide precise or necessarily valid information about the treatment of human overdose. However, animal experiments can provide useful insights into possible treatment strategies. The oral median lethal dose in rats and mice was found to be 452 and 248 mg/kg, respectively. Acute high oral doses produced hyperirritability and convulsions in several animal species. Among 6 dogs purposely overdosed with oral fluoxetine, 5 experienced grand mal seizures. Seizures stopped immediately upon the bolus intravenous administration of a standard veterinary dose of diazepam. In this short-term study, the lowest plasma concentration at which a seizure occurred was only twice the maximum plasma concentration seen in humans taking 80 mg/day, chronically. In a separate single-dose study, the ECG of dogs given high doses did not reveal prolongation of the PR, QRS, or QT intervals. Tachycardia and an increase in blood pressure were observed. Consequently, the value of the ECG in predicting cardiac toxicity is unknown. Nonetheless, the ECG should ordinarily be monitored in cases of human overdose [see Overdosage (10.3) ] . 10.3 Management of Overdose For current information on the management of fluoxetine overdose, contact a certified poison control center (1-800-222-1222 or www.poison.org). Treatment should consist of those general measures employed in the management of overdosage with any drug. Consider the possibility of multi-drug overdose. Ensure an adequate airway, oxygenation, and ventilation. Monitor cardiac rhythm and vital signs. Use general supportive and symptomatic measures. Induction of emesis is not recommended. Activated ch …
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING 16.1 How Supplied Fluoxetine Oral Solution USP, 20 mg * /5 mL is a clear, colorless peppermint flavored liquid in round amber colored glass bottle with child-resistant closure. Bottle of 120 mL NDC 65862-306-12 *Fluoxetine base equivalent. 16.2 Storage and Handling Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature]. Dispense in a tight, light-resistant container.
16.1 How Supplied Fluoxetine Oral Solution USP, 20 mg * /5 mL is a clear, colorless peppermint flavored liquid in round amber colored glass bottle with child-resistant closure. Bottle of 120 mL NDC 65862-306-12 *Fluoxetine base equivalent.
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: FLUOXETINE HYDROCHLORIDE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60687-845-77 | 60687-845 | American Health Packaging | 4 TRAY in 1 CASE (60687-845-77) / 10 CUP, UNIT-DOSE in 1 TRAY (60687-845-46) / 5 mL in 1 CUP, UNIT-DOSE (60687-845-40) | December 4, 2024 |
| 65862-306-12 | 65862-306 | Aurobindo Pharma Limited | 120 mL in 1 BOTTLE, GLASS (65862-306-12) | March 19, 2009 |
| 0121-0721-04 | 0121-0721 | PAI Holdings, LLC dba PAI Pharma | 120 mL in 1 BOTTLE (0121-0721-04) | January 30, 2002 |
| 0121-4721-40 | 0121-4721 | PAI Holdings, LLC dba PAI Pharma | 4 TRAY in 1 CASE (0121-4721-40) / 10 CUP, UNIT-DOSE in 1 TRAY / 5 mL in 1 CUP, UNIT-DOSE (0121-4721-05) | February 1, 2002 |
| 71656-089-04 | 71656-089 | Saptalis Pharmaceuticals, LLC. | 120 mL in 1 BOTTLE (71656-089-04) | June 20, 2025 |
| 60687-845 | 60687-845 | American Health Packaging | — | December 4, 2024 |
| 65862-306 | 65862-306 | Aurobindo Pharma Limited | — | March 19, 2009 |
| 0121-0721 | 0121-0721 | PAI Holdings, LLC dba PAI Pharma | — | January 30, 2002 |
| 0121-4721 | 0121-4721 | PAI Holdings, LLC dba PAI Pharma | — | February 1, 2002 |
| 71656-089 | 71656-089 | Saptalis Pharmaceuticals, LLC. | — | June 20, 2025 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 12 sections on this page.