Apo-Fluoxetine Dosage/Direction for Use

Since it may take up to four or five weeks to reach steady-state plasma levels of APO-FLUOXETINE (fluoxetine hydrochloride), sufficient time should be allowed to elapse before dosages is gradually increased. Higher dosages are usually associated with an increased incidence of adverse reactions.
Depression: Initial Adult Dosage: The usual initial dosage is 20 mg administered once daily in the morning. A gradual dose increase should be considered only after a trial period of several weeks if the expected clinical improvement does not occur. Dosage should not exceed a maximum of 80 mg per day since clinical experience with doses above 80 mg per day is limited.
Use in the Elderly: Fluoxetine was evaluated in depressed elderly patients only at a dosage of 20 mg/day. A lower or less frequent dosage may be effective and should be considered in elderly patients with concurrent disease or on multiple medications.
Use in Children: The safety and effectiveness of fluoxetine in patients below the age of 18 years have not been established.
Bulimia Nervosa: Adult Dosage: The recommended dosage is 60 mg per day, although studies show that lower doses may also be effecacious. Electrolyte levels should be assessed prior to initiation of treatment.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: A dose range of 20 mg/day to 60 mg/day is recommended for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder.
For any indication, the total fluoxetine dosage should not exceed a maximum of 80 mg per day since clinical experience with doses above 80 mg per day is very limited.
During maintenance therapy, the dosage should be kept at the lowest effective level.
A lower or less frequent dosage should be used in patients with renal and/or hepatic impairment and in those on multiple medications.