Fluoxetine

/fluˈɑksətiːn/ noun

Definition

The first widely-used selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant, used to treat depression, anxiety, bulimia, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Known for its long half-life and activating effects.

Etymology

Developed by Eli Lilly in the 1970s, named for its chemical structure containing fluorine. It became the first blockbuster SSRI when launched as Prozac in 1987, revolutionizing depression treatment.

Kelly Says

Fluoxetine (Prozac) was dubbed 'the happiness pill' and became a cultural phenomenon in the 1990s, making depression treatment mainstream and reducing stigma. Its long half-life means it stays in your system for weeks, which reduces withdrawal symptoms but can complicate switching to other antidepressants.

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