Are you tired of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)? Let's learn about Fluoxetine!

Do you also feel bored with the whole world for a week or two before your period starts? Do you get angry at even the smallest things, do you get teary-eyed for no reason, do you feel incredibly sad and depressed? Do these feelings sometimes become so severe that you can't control yourself? This is a much more severe condition than the usual 'Premenstrual Syndrome - PMS'. In medicine, we call this 'Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder' or `(PMDD)'. So if this `(PMDD)` condition is disrupting your daily work, work, and family life, a doctor may prescribe you a drug called `Fluoxetine` as a solution. Let's talk about this drug in detail today.

Simply put, what is Fluoxetine?

`Fluoxetine` is a drug used to treat `PMDD`. It belongs to a class of drugs called `SSRI` (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors). Okay, now you're probably wondering what these words mean.

Simply think of it this way. There are chemicals in our brain that help us communicate between nerve cells. We call these ``Neurotransmitters''. ``Serotonin'' is one such chemical. This ``Serotonin'' helps a lot in controlling our mood, that is, our feelings of happiness, sadness, and calmness. That is why some people also call it the "happy hormone."

It is believed that women with PMDD have low levels of serotonin before their period. That is why they feel so depressed during those days. So, the medicine Fluoxetine works by increasing the amount of serotonin in the brain and helping to balance that level. Then, those severe symptoms like depression, anger, and sadness are controlled.

Doctors recommend this medication not only for PMDD, but also for other mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety.

Things you need to tell your doctor before taking this medicine

Fluoxetine is not a drug that you can just buy from a pharmacy. Before using it, your doctor should be aware of your complete health history. Be sure to tell your doctor if you or anyone in your family has any of the following conditions:

• Mental health issues: If you or someone in your family has bipolar disorder, or if you have had previous suicidal thoughts, plans, or attempts, you should also mention this.
• Other medications: Tell your doctor if you are currently taking a medication called an MAOI (e.g. Carbex, Eldepryl, Marplan, Nardil, Parnate). Taking these two medications together is very dangerous.
• Blood problems: If you are taking blood-thinning medication (e.g. Warfarin) or if you have a bleeding disorder.
• Other medical conditions: Heart disease, liver disease, seizures, glaucoma, thyroid disease, or low sodium levels in the body.
• Allergies: If you have an allergy to Fluoxetine or any other medicine, food, or dye.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, trying to get pregnant, or breastfeeding, you should definitely talk to your doctor before starting this medication.

How should I use the medicine?

The method of using this medicine is very simple, but it is very important to follow the instructions exactly.

1. How to take: This medicine comes in the form of a capsule or tablet. Swallow it with a glass of water. You can take it with or without food. However, if you experience stomach upset, it is best to take it with food.

2. The right time: Take the prescribed dose every day, at the time your doctor tells you. Don't skip the time.

3. Avoid stopping suddenly: This is the most important thing. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without your doctor's advice. If you do, you may experience discomfort such as dizziness, headache, and nausea. It may also worsen your PMDD symptoms. If you do stop, you should do so by gradually reducing the dose as directed by your doctor.

What do you do if you miss a dose of medication?

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as usual. Never take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose.

What if I take too much medicine?

If you think you have taken more medicine than you think, go to a hospital's Emergency Treatment Unit (ETU) immediately or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital . Do not take this lightly.

Other drugs that may interact with Fluoxetine (Drug Interactions)

It is very important to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, and herbal products you are taking, as fluoxetine can interact with other medications and cause dangerous side effects.

Things to be careful about while taking the medicine

Be aware of changes in mood.

This is very important. There is a small risk of increased suicidal thoughts or behavior when you first start taking a medicine like Fluoxetine, especially in young people. So if you or someone you know notices these things, talk to your doctor right away.

• If you feel like your sadness and depression are increasing.
• If you feel anxious, restless, or angry.
• If you notice sudden, severe changes in behavior or mood.

It may take a few weeks for this medicine to take full effect. So, don't worry if your symptoms haven't improved a bit. Continue to take the medicine as your doctor tells you.

Other common effects

• Drowsiness and dizziness: This medication may make you feel sleepy, have trouble concentrating, or feel dizzy. Therefore, avoid driving or operating dangerous machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
• Dry mouth: You may feel like your mouth is dry. Chewing sugar-free gum and drinking more water can help.
• Diabetes: If you have diabetes, this medicine may affect your blood sugar levels, so talk to your doctor about it.

Side effects of the medicine

Like any medicine, Fluoxetine can cause side effects. However, not everyone gets them. Some people may only experience minor discomfort. The important thing is to know what the serious side effects are and what the common side effects are.