Sarafem 10 mg is a brand-name version of fluoxetine, a widely used SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor) antidepressant. While fluoxetine is commonly known by the brand Prozac, Sarafem is specifically marketed for treating Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD).

Quick Overview

• Brand name: Sarafem

• Generic name: Fluoxetine

• Strength: 10 mg

• Drug class: SSRI (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor)

• Prescription required

Used For

• Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD)

• Also used (under Prozac name) for:

  • Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

  • Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

  • Panic Disorder

  • Bulimia nervosa

  • Anxiety disorders (off-label)

  • PTSD (off-label)

How It Works

Fluoxetine increases levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, emotion, and behavior. By blocking the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, it allows for greater serotonin activity, which helps stabilize mood and reduce anxiety or irritability.

How to Take It

• For PMDD:

  • Can be taken daily throughout the month or only during the luteal phase (last 2 weeks of the cycle), as prescribed

• For depression and other conditions: taken daily, usually in the morning

• Start low, go slow—typical doses range from 10 mg to 60 mg/day

• Takes 2–6 weeks to feel full effect

• Do not stop suddenly—taper off with a doctor’s guidance

Common Side Effects

• Nausea

• Headache

• Trouble sleeping or drowsiness

• Nervousness or anxiety (especially at first)

• Sweating

• Loss of appetite or weight loss

• Sexual side effects (e.g., decreased libido, delayed orgasm)

Serious Risks

• Suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in young adults

• Serotonin syndrome (especially if taken with other serotonergic drugs like triptans or MAOIs)

• Mania in those with bipolar disorder

• QT prolongation (rare heart rhythm disturbance)

• Bleeding risk (especially if taken with NSAIDs or blood thinners)

 Drug Interactions

Avoid combining with:

• MAO inhibitors (wait at least 14 days)

• Other SSRIs/SNRIs

• Tramadol, St. John’s Wort, and lithium without doctor supervision

 Summary

Sarafem 10 mg (Fluoxetine) is an SSRI specifically branded for PMDD, but it’s pharmacologically identical to Prozac. It can help reduce mood swings, irritability, and tension associated with the menstrual cycle. It’s generally well-tolerated, but requires careful monitoring for mood or side effects, especially when starting or stopping.