OXETINE 20 Tablets

What is OXETINE 20

OXETINE 20 is a prescription medication that contains Fluoxetine hydrochloride as its active pharmaceutical ingredient. It belongs to the class of drugs known as Select Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs), which are primarily used to treat various mental health conditions. Each tablet contains 20 mg of fluoxetine and is intended for oral use. This medication is typically dispensed in blister packs containing 20 tablets (2 packs of 10 tablets each).

• Therapeutic Class: Antidepressant (SSRI)
• Indications:
  • Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Panic Disorder
  • Bulimia Nervosa
  • Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
• Patient Age Group: Suitable for adults and adolescents (in some indications)
• Prescription Required: Yes

How to use OXETINE 20

OXETINE 20 should always be used according to a physician’s instructions. Adherence to the prescribed regimen is essential for treatment efficacy and safety. Patients should not adjust their dose without medical advice.

• Route of Administration: Oral
• Administration Instructions:
  • Take the tablet with or without food.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not crush or chew.
• Dosing Time: Preferably taken at the same time each day, usually in the morning to avoid insomnia.
• Missed Dose:
  • If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember.
  • If it is near the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose.
• Discontinuation:
  • Fluoxetine should not be stopped abruptly; tapering may be needed to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
  • Consult your healthcare provider before stopping the medication.

Mode of Action OXETINE 20

Fluoxetine, the active ingredient in OXETINE 20, functions as a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI). It works by altering the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, primarily serotonin, which plays a key role in mood regulation.

• Mechanism:
  • Inhibits the reuptake of serotonin in the brain's presynaptic neurons.
  • This leads to increased serotonin levels in the synaptic cleft, enhancing neurotransmission.
• Clinical Effects:
  • Improves mood, anxiety, and emotional balance.
  • Reduces obsessive and compulsive thoughts in OCD.
  • Helps regulate eating behaviors in bulimia.
• Pharmacokinetics:
  • Half-life of fluoxetine: 4–6 days
  • Half-life of active metabolite (norfluoxetine): up to 16 days
  • Long half-life allows for once-daily dosing
• Onset of Effect: Noticeable improvements usually begin in 2–4 weeks, with full effects in 6–8 weeks.

OXETINE 20 Interactions OXETINE 20

OXETINE 20 (Fluoxetine) interacts with a range of medications, supplements, and substances. These interactions can increase side effects, reduce drug efficacy, or pose serious health risks.

• Do Not Use With:
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) – risk of serotonin syndrome or hypertensive crisis
  • Thioridazine or Pimozide – risk of QT prolongation and arrhythmia
• Use With Caution:
  • NSAIDs, aspirin, warfarin – increased bleeding risk
  • Other serotonergic drugs (e.g., triptans, SNRIs, tramadol, St. John’s Wort) – risk of serotonin syndrome
  • Drugs metabolized by CYP2D6 (e.g., codeine, tamoxifen, beta-blockers) – fluoxetine may alter their blood levels
• Alcohol:
  • Alcohol may worsen drowsiness and depression. Concurrent use is not advised.
• Herbal Interactions:
  • St. John’s Wort may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

Dosage of OXETINE 20

The dosage of OXETINE 20 depends on the specific condition, the patient’s age, clinical response, and tolerance. Adjustments should be made by a qualified healthcare professional only.

• Major Depressive Disorder:
  • Initial: 20 mg once daily
  • Maintenance: May increase up to 60 mg/day as needed
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD):
  • Initial: 20 mg/day
  • May increase gradually to 40–60 mg/day
• Panic Disorder:
  • Start with 10 mg/day for one week, then increase to 20 mg/day
• Bulimia Nervosa:
  • Recommended dose: 60 mg/day
• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD):
  • 20 mg/day continuously or during luteal phase only
• Geriatric or Hepatic Impairment:
  • Lower doses and slower titration recommended

Possible side effects of OXETINE 20

Like all medications, OXETINE 20 may cause side effects. These vary by individual and may be dose-related. Patients should report any unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Nausea, indigestion
  • Insomnia or somnolence
  • Headache, dizziness
  • Anxiety, restlessness
  • Sexual dysfunction (decreased libido, delayed orgasm)
  • Loss of appetite and weight changes
• Serious Side Effects:
  • Seizures (rare)
  • Serotonin syndrome (confusion, high fever, tremor, sweating)
  • QT prolongation and heart rhythm disorders
  • Suicidal thoughts, especially in young adults and adolescents
• Discontinuation Syndrome (if stopped suddenly):
  • Dizziness, irritability, nausea
  • Flu-like symptoms
  • “Brain zaps” or electric shock sensations

OXETINE 20 Contraindications OXETINE 20

OXETINE 20 is contraindicated in several medical scenarios due to potential risks or drug interactions. A thorough medical history should be reviewed prior to initiation.

• Known Allergy: Hypersensitivity to fluoxetine or any component of the tablet formulation
• Concurrent Use of MAOIs: Serious risk of serotonin syndrome; at least 14 days should separate use
• Use with Pimozide or Thioridazine: Risk of QT prolongation and life-threatening arrhythmias
• Uncontrolled Seizure Disorders: Fluoxetine may lower seizure threshold
• Children under age 8: Not approved for use in young children

Storage of OXETINE 20

Proper storage conditions for OXETINE 20 help ensure its stability, potency, and safety. Patients should follow standard medication storage practices.

• Storage Temperature: Store at 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F)
• Humidity: Keep in a dry place; avoid humid areas like bathrooms
• Light Protection: Store in original blister packaging to protect from light
• Child Safety: Keep out of reach of children
• Disposal:
  • Do not flush unused tablets down the toilet
  • Use a pharmacy or community take-back program