The primary active ingredient in Prozac is Fluoxetine, which is often referred to as an atypical selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, or SSRI.

Like other SSRIs, Fluoxetine helps to prevent the depletion of the neurotransmitter serotonin as it passes from one nerve cell to another. Occasionally, as messages travel between cells, about 10% of the serotonin contained in these messages is lost, which doctors believe can lead to depression. SSRI’s allow the neurotransmitter to remain in the “gap” between cells longer, so that the second cell has more time to receive it.

While there are several different kinds of SSRIs, Fluoxetine is called “atypical” because in addition to sustaining robust concentrations of serotonin in the brain, this drug has also been shown to aid dopamine and nor epinephrine concentrations as well.

Prozac is most often used to treat depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, bulimia, and panic disorder. It is recommended to patients who are also suffering from fatigue because of its observed energizing abilities. Unfortunately, the flip side to this is that the drug can also increase feelings of anxiety in some individuals. Like all SSRIs, Prozac has also been shown to have sexual side effects on occasion, with low libido being the most common.

Like many antidepressants, Prozac has been a saving grace for individuals who found that the drug allowed them to lead happier, more normal lives. However, those looking to achieve a more balanced outlook should not let the manufacturer’s aggressive marketing campaign lead them to believe that prescription medications are the only solutions.

Those suffering from mild mood swings due to the weather, PMS, or any other factor may find that they are greatly helped by an herbal supplement containing the natural form of the mineral lithium. As holistic remedies become more and more accepted, an increasing number of individuals are finding that this mineral offers them the relief they’re looking for.

• Has been shown to increase dopamine and nor epinephrine in the brain in addition to serotonin

• Available by prescription only
• May have unpleasant side effects for some
• Not used to treat mood swings
• May be expensive

Individuals may consider an antidepressant for a number of reasons: they may be feeling depressed, anxious, or generally moody. Fortunately, medical technology has advanced in such a way that there is a treatment to suit nearly every problem. In spite of Prozac’s pervasiveness in the 1980s and 1990s, scientists and consumers are becoming increasingly aware of other options.

Those suffering from mild mood swings may find that a supplement containing the natural form of the mineral lithium offers them just the boost they need. Especially when combined with the enhancing substance Orotate, just a very small amount of this mineral is enough to create significant mood enhancement.