OXETINE 20 Tablets

What is OXETINE 20

OXETINE 20 is a prescription-only antidepressant medication that contains Fluoxetine hydrochloride, an active compound classified under Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs). This drug is used to manage a range of psychiatric and mood disorders, helping to restore the chemical balance of serotonin in the brain. OXETINE 20 is presented in tablet form, with each tablet delivering 20 mg of fluoxetine, packaged in blister packs of 10 tablets, with a total of 30 tablets per box.

• Therapeutic Class: Antidepressant (SSRI)
• Active Ingredient: Fluoxetine (as hydrochloride) 20 mg per tablet
• Common Indications:
  • Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)
  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
  • Panic Disorder
  • Bulimia Nervosa
  • Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)
• Age Group: Adults and adolescents (based on indication)
• Prescription Required: Yes

How to use OXETINE 20

OXETINE 20 should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare provider. The medication is usually taken once daily and may be taken with or without food. Establishing a consistent daily routine helps improve compliance and therapeutic outcome.

• Route of Administration: Oral
• General Instructions:
  • Take the tablet at the same time each day, usually in the morning to reduce the risk of insomnia.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water; do not crush or chew.
• Missed Dose:
  • If missed, take as soon as you remember unless it’s close to the next scheduled dose.
  • Never double the dose to make up for the missed one.
• Important Considerations:
  • Therapeutic effects may take 2–6 weeks to be noticeable.
  • Continue taking even if you feel well; stopping abruptly may cause withdrawal symptoms.
• Discontinuation: Only under medical supervision, with gradual dose tapering if necessary.

Mode of Action OXETINE 20

OXETINE 20 acts by modifying neurotransmitter levels in the brain, particularly serotonin. It is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI), meaning it specifically targets and inhibits the serotonin transporter protein, thereby increasing serotonin availability in the synaptic cleft.

• Primary Action:
  • Blocks the reabsorption (reuptake) of serotonin by neurons.
  • This leads to higher serotonin concentrations, enhancing neurotransmission.
• Resulting Effects:
  • Improved mood and emotional stability
  • Reduction in anxiety and obsessive thoughts
  • Improved sleep and appetite in some patients
• Pharmacokinetics:
  • Half-life of fluoxetine: 4–6 days
  • Half-life of active metabolite (norfluoxetine): up to 16 days
• Onset of Action: Typically takes 2 to 6 weeks to see clinical improvement, although some symptoms may improve earlier.

OXETINE 20 Interactions OXETINE 20

Fluoxetine interacts with many drugs due to its inhibition of cytochrome P450 enzymes, especially CYP2D6. Patients must disclose all medications, including over-the-counter and herbal supplements, to their healthcare provider.

• Major Drug Interactions:
  • MAO Inhibitors: Life-threatening serotonin syndrome if taken within 14 days
  • Thioridazine or Pimozide: Increased risk of cardiac arrhythmia
  • NSAIDs, Warfarin, Aspirin: Increased bleeding risk
  • Triptans, Tramadol, Linezolid: Increased risk of serotonin syndrome
• Herbal Products:
  • St. John’s Wort and other serotonergic herbs can cause serotonin excess
• Alcohol:
  • May potentiate CNS side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired judgment
• CYP2D6 Inhibition:
  • May affect drugs metabolized by CYP2D6, including some beta-blockers, antipsychotics, and opioids

Dosage of OXETINE 20

The dosage of OXETINE 20 varies based on the diagnosis, patient age, and response to treatment. Fluoxetine is often initiated at a lower dose and titrated up as needed under medical supervision.

• Major Depressive Disorder (Adults):
  • Initial: 20 mg once daily
  • Maintenance: May be increased to 40–60 mg/day depending on response
• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (Adults):
  • Initial: 20 mg/day
  • Target: 40–60 mg/day; maximum 80 mg/day
• Bulimia Nervosa:
  • Standard dose: 60 mg/day
• Panic Disorder:
  • Start with 10 mg/day, increase to 20–60 mg/day
• PMDD:
  • 20 mg/day continuously or during luteal phase
• Special Populations:
  • Lower doses recommended in elderly and hepatic impairment

Possible side effects of OXETINE 20

OXETINE 20 is generally well tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause side effects. Most side effects are mild and transient, though some may require medical attention.

• Common Side Effects:
  • Nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth
  • Insomnia, anxiety, nervousness
  • Headache, fatigue
  • Sexual dysfunction (e.g., delayed ejaculation, anorgasmia)
  • Weight loss or appetite changes
• Serious Adverse Effects:
  • Serotonin syndrome (confusion, fever, sweating, muscle rigidity)
  • Suicidal ideation, especially in young adults and adolescents
  • QT prolongation and cardiac arrhythmia
  • Seizures (rare)
• Discontinuation Symptoms:
  • Though fluoxetine has a long half-life, stopping abruptly can still lead to dizziness, mood swings, and sensory disturbances

OXETINE 20 Contraindications OXETINE 20

OXETINE 20 should not be used in certain populations due to potential health risks. Screening and medical history are critical before prescribing fluoxetine.

• Absolute Contraindications:
  • Hypersensitivity to fluoxetine or formulation excipients
  • Concurrent use with MAOIs or within 14 days of stopping an MAOI
  • Concurrent use with pimozide or thioridazine
• Relative Contraindications:
  • History of seizures
  • Manic episodes or bipolar disorder
  • Severe liver dysfunction
• Use in Pediatrics: Use in children under 8 years is not recommended unless specifically indicated

Storage of OXETINE 20

Proper storage of OXETINE 20 ensures the medication remains effective and safe for use throughout its shelf life. Follow standard pharmaceutical storage practices.

• Temperature: Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C
• Humidity: Keep in a dry place; protect from moisture
• Light Protection: Keep in original packaging to shield from direct light
• Childproofing: Store out of reach and sight of children
• Disposal:
  • Do not flush unused tablets down the toilet
  • Dispose through pharmacy return or approved medical waste programs