fluoxetine (Prozac)

Meet with a licensed provider online to explore if an antidepressant medication like fluoxetine (Prozac) may be right for you.

Treatment for:
depression, anxiety disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), panic disorder

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How prescribing works

  • 1

    Find the right provider

    Browse providers online or call us and we’ll help you find someone who accepts your insurance and fits your needs. Pick a time that works for you and choose how you’d like to pay.

  • 2

    Get started with treatment

    At your first session, share what you’re experiencing and what you’re hoping to get out of treatment. Together, you’ll discuss your options—including whether medication might be a good fit. If so, your provider can send a prescription directly to your local pharmacy.

  • 3

    Track your progress

    Your provider will check in regularly to make sure your treatment plan is working for you and adjust as needed.

What is an SSRI?

A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) is a class of medication commonly used to treat mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD.

How does a SSRI work?

SSRIs increase the availability of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a naturally-occurring brain chemical that supports the regulation of mood and memory.

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FAQs about fluoxetine (Prozac)

What is fluoxetine (Prozac) used for?

Fluoxetine (Prozac) is a medication used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other related mental health disorders. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI, that works by increasing the availability of serotonin in your brain.

Does fluoxetine (Prozac) cause weight gain?

Changes in weight may be a side effect of antidepressant medication, but major weight changes when taking fluoxetine (Prozac) are uncommon. If you have concerns about managing your weight while taking antidepressant medication, consult with your provider.

What does fluoxetine (Prozac) feel like when it starts working?

The goal of taking an antidepressant medication like fluoxetine (Prozac) is to help reduce the severity and frequency of your depression symptoms. It will not change your personality and can help you feel like yourself again, including regaining interest in activities you enjoy and feeling more hopeful. If you begin to feel worse after taking fluoxetine, talk with your provider immediately.

What are the sexual side effects of fluoxetine?

Sexual side effects may occur for both men and women when taking fluoxetine and other SSRIs, including decreased sexual desire and interest, reduced sensitivity, and difficulty achieving climax. If you're experiencing negative side effects of any medication, speak with your provider — they may advise trying a new medication, changing when you take your medication, or coping strategies.

How long does it take for fluoxetine (Prozac) to work?

Most SSRI medications like fluoxetine take up to 8 weeks of regular use to be fully effective, with some people beginning to feel symptom relief as quickly as 1-2 weeks after starting.

Is fluoxetine (Prozac) addictive?

SSRIs like fluoxetine have not been found to be addictive. However, if you stop taking your medication suddenly, you may experience discontinuation symptoms which can last for weeks. Consult with your provider before making any medication changes.

Can I get a prescription online?

You can meet with a licensed provider at Thriveworks, in person or online depending on your state. If it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe medication for a diagnosed mental health condition. Your provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Can I use my health insurance for prescriptions and refills?

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication your provider prescribes, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your plan to confirm your medical and prescription coverage.

How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?

Schedule a session with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After discussing your symptoms and treatment goals, your provider may recommend medication and/or additional services to help you get where you want to be.

Is Thriveworks LegitScript certified?

Yes. Thriveworks is LegitScript-certified, meaning we’ve been reviewed and verified by one of the most trusted compliance organizations in healthcare. This certification confirms that our services meet high standards for legality, safety, and transparency.

This information has been reviewed for accuracy and approved by our licensed psychiatric team. Published October 3, 2024
Dr. Scott Gordon

Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.

Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer

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