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Sarafem (Fluoxetine Hydrochloride) - Indications and Dosage

 
 



INDICATIONS AND USAGE

SARAFEM is indicated for the treatment of premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

The efficacy of fluoxetine in the treatment of PMDD was established in 3 placebo–controlled trials (see CLINICAL TRIALS).

The essential features of PMDD, according to the DSM–IV, include markedly depressed mood, anxiety or tension, affective lability, and persistent anger or irritability. Other features include decreased interest in usual activities, difficulty concentrating, lack of energy, change in appetite or sleep, and feeling out of control. Physical symptoms associated with PMDD include breast tenderness, headache, joint and muscle pain, bloating, and weight gain. These symptoms occur regularly during the luteal phase and remit within a few days following onset of menses; the disturbance markedly interferes with work or school or with usual social activities and relationships with others. In making the diagnosis, care should be taken to rule out other cyclical mood disorders that may be exacerbated by treatment with an antidepressant.

The effectiveness of SARAFEM in long-term use, that is, for more than 6 months, has not been systematically evaluated in controlled trials. Therefore, the physician who elects to use SARAFEM for extended periods should periodically reevaluate the long–term usefulness of the drug for the individual patient.

DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder

Initial Treatment

The recommended dose of SARAFEM for the treatment of PMDD is 20 mg/day given continuously (every day of the menstrual cycle) or intermittently (defined as starting a daily dose 14 days prior to the anticipated onset of menstruation through the first full day of menses and repeating with each new cycle). The dosing regimen should be determined by the physician based on individual patient characteristics. In a study comparing continuous dosing of fluoxetine 20 and 60 mg/day to placebo, both doses were proven to be effective, but there was no statistically significant added benefit for the 60–mg/day compared with the 20–mg/day dose. Fluoxetine doses above 60 mg/day have not been systematically studied in patients with PMDD. The maximum fluoxetine dose should not exceed 80 mg/day.

As with many other medications, a lower or less frequent dosage should be considered in patients with hepatic impairment. A lower or less frequent dosage should also be considered for patients with concurrent disease or on multiple concomitant medications. Dosage adjustments for renal impairment are not routinely necessary (see Liver disease and Renal disease under CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY, and Use in Patients with Concomitant Illness under PRECAUTIONS).

Maintenance/Continuation Treatment

Systematic evaluation of SARAFEM has shown that its efficacy in PMDD is maintained for periods of up to 6 months at a dose of 20 mg/day given continuously and up to 3 months at a dose of 20 mg/day given intermittently (see CLINICAL TRIALS). Patients should be periodically reassessed to determine the need for continued treatment.

Special Populations

Treatment of Pregnant Women During the Third Trimester

Neonates exposed to fluoxetine and other SSRIs or SNRIs, late in the third trimester have developed complications requiring prolonged hospitalization, respiratory support, and tube feeding (see PRECAUTIONS). When treating pregnant women with fluoxetine during the third trimester, the physician should carefully consider the potential risks and benefits of treatment. The physician may consider tapering fluoxetine in the third trimester.

Discontinuation of Treatment with SARAFEM

Symptoms associated with discontinuation of SARAFEM and other SSRIs and SNRIs, have been reported (see PRECAUTIONS). Patients should be monitored for these symptoms when discontinuing treatment. A gradual reduction in the dose rather than abrupt cessation is recommended whenever possible. If intolerable symptoms occur following a decrease in the dose or upon discontinuation of treatment, then resuming the previously prescribed dose may be considered. Subsequently, the physician may continue decreasing the dose but at a more gradual rate. Plasma fluoxetine and norfluoxetine concentration decrease gradually at the conclusion of therapy which may minimize the risk of discontinuation symptoms with this drug.

HOW SUPPLIED

SARAFEM® (fluoxetine hydrochloride) Pulvules® [Pulvule and the paraboloidal shape of the capsule are registered trademarks of Eli Lilly and Company. ] are available in 10–mg [Equivalent to fluoxetine base. ] and 20–mg capsule strengths.

The 10–mg Pulvule has an opaque lavender body and cap and is imprinted with 10 mg on the body and Sarafem on the cap:
       N 0430–0435–14 – Blisters of 28

The 20–mg Pulvule has an opaque pink body with opaque lavender cap and is imprinted with 20 mg on the body and Sarafem on the cap:
       N 0430–0436–14 – Blisters of 28

Store at Controlled Room Temperature, 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F).

Protect from light.

Prozac® is a registered trademark of Eli Lilly and Company.

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