Fluoxetine 20 mg: uses, price & cheaper substitutes
Prescription required (Schedule H)
Common uses: Depression – low mood, loss of interest, poor sleep and appetite; Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).
Listed MRPs range from ₹0.82 to ₹4.29 per capsule across 5 listings. Use only on a doctor's prescription.
Price comparison
| Brand | Manufacturer | Pack | MRP | ₹ / capsule | As on |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fluoxetine Hydrochloride Capsules IP 20mgJan Aushadhi | Jan Aushadhi (PMBJP) | 10 | ₹8.25 | ₹0.82 | 19 October 2026 |
| Fludac 20 | Cadila Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 15 | ₹64.35 | ₹4.29 | 19 October 2026 |
| Flunil 20 | Intas Pharmaceuticals Ltd | 10 | ₹42.95 | ₹4.29 | 19 October 2026 |
| Prodep 20 | Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd | 10 | ₹42.88 | ₹4.29 | 19 October 2026 |
| Flutee 20 | Talent India | 10 | ₹42.91 | ₹4.29 | 19 October 2026 |
MRPs as printed/listed on the date shown; actual price may vary.
Uses
- Depression – low mood, loss of interest, poor sleep and appetite.
- Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD).
- Bulimia nervosa (binge eating and purging).
- Panic disorder and premenstrual dysphoric disorder, on a specialist's advice.
How to take it
Take one 20 mg capsule once a day, usually in the morning because it can keep you awake if taken at night, with or without food. Swallow it whole with water. It takes 2 to 4 weeks to start helping and up to 6 weeks for full effect, so keep taking it even if you feel no change at first. Treatment usually continues for at least 6 months after you feel better. Do not stop suddenly; your doctor will reduce the dose gradually. Tell your doctor or a family member straight away if your mood worsens or you have thoughts of harming yourself, especially in the first weeks or if you are under 25.
Side effects
Common
- Nausea, diarrhoea or indigestion.
- Headache.
- Trouble sleeping or feeling drowsy.
- Reduced appetite or weight change.
- Low sex drive or difficulty reaching orgasm.
- Nervousness or shakiness in the first weeks.
Serious
Stop and get medical help urgently if you notice any of these.
- Thoughts of self-harm or suicide, or sudden agitation – seek help immediately.
- Serotonin syndrome – high fever, muscle twitching, confusion, racing heart, especially when combined with other antidepressants or tramadol.
- Unusual bleeding or bruising, black stools.
- Mania – unusual energy, little need for sleep, reckless behaviour.
- Fits, or a severe allergic reaction with swelling and rash.
Safety information
Alcohol
Avoid alcohol. It worsens depression, adds to drowsiness and makes side effects more likely.
Pregnancy
Can be used in pregnancy if the benefit outweighs the risk; untreated depression also harms. Tell your doctor if pregnant or planning. Small amounts pass into breast milk – discuss breastfeeding.
Kidney problems
No dose change is usually needed in mild to moderate kidney disease; tell your doctor.
Liver problems
Fluoxetine stays in the body longer in liver disease, so a lower dose or alternate-day dosing may be used.
Children
Used in children aged 8 and above for depression only under a child psychiatrist, with close monitoring for mood changes.
Missed dose
Take it as soon as you remember that day. If it is the next day, skip it and carry on. Never double the dose.
Interactions
- Other antidepressants, especially MAO inhibitors (selegiline, moclobemide) – dangerous serotonin syndrome; a gap of weeks is needed when switching.
- Tramadol, triptans (sumatriptan, rizatriptan), lithium – serotonin syndrome risk.
- Aspirin, ibuprofen, diclofenac, warfarin, clopidogrel – more bleeding.
- Tamoxifen – fluoxetine makes it less effective; tell your oncologist.
- Metoprolol, carvedilol, some antipsychotics – levels rise.
- St John's wort and alcohol – avoid.
Frequently asked questions
When should I take Fludac 20 – morning or night?
Morning is usual, because fluoxetine can be activating and disturb sleep if taken late. If it makes you drowsy instead, your doctor may move it to the evening.
How long does Fludac 20 take to work?
Sleep and appetite often improve within 1 to 2 weeks, but mood usually takes 4 to 6 weeks. Do not judge it, or stop, before 4 weeks without talking to your doctor.
Can I take Fludac 20 with alcohol?
It is best avoided. Alcohol worsens depression and adds to drowsiness and dizziness.
Can I stop Flunil 20 once I feel better?
Not on your own. Stopping early is the commonest reason depression returns. Doctors usually continue for at least 6 months after recovery and then reduce slowly.
Is Fludac 20 addictive?
No. Fluoxetine does not cause craving or dependence. Stopping suddenly can cause mild withdrawal symptoms, which is why the dose is tapered.
Is Fludac safe in pregnancy?
It can be continued in pregnancy when needed, as untreated depression also carries risks. Discuss with your psychiatrist and obstetrician; delivery is usually planned in a hospital.
Fludac 20 vs Nexito 10 – what is the difference?
Both are SSRIs. Fluoxetine (Fludac) stays in the body for weeks and is more activating; escitalopram (Nexito) is shorter-acting and often better tolerated for anxiety. Your psychiatrist chooses based on your symptoms.
Does Fludac cause weight gain or weight loss?
Fluoxetine often reduces appetite and causes slight weight loss early on; some people gain weight with long-term use. Tell your doctor if the change worries you.
Can I take Fludac 20 with painkillers?
Paracetamol is fine. Regular ibuprofen, aspirin or diclofenac increases bleeding risk with SSRIs; tramadol can cause serotonin syndrome. Ask your doctor first.
Sources
- NHS – Fluoxetine (19 October 2026)
- NPPA Pharma Sahi Daam (ceiling prices) (19 October 2026)
- PMBI Jan Aushadhi Product & MRP List (19 October 2026)
Medyzen Editorial Team · Last updated
This page is general information, not medical advice. Do not start, stop or change a medicine without asking a doctor or pharmacist. Terms