Is Prozac a controlled substance?

“I was recently prescribed Prozac and noticed the pharmacy treated it differently from some other medications I take. I am a little confused about the rules around it. Is Prozac a controlled substance?”

Daisy Oliveira
Registered Nurse CNO #13564387

Prozac, also known as fluoxetine, is not a controlled substance under US federal law. It is a prescription antidepressant, but it is not included in any Drug Enforcement Administration controlled substance schedule.

Prozac belongs to a group of medicines called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. It is prescribed for conditions such as depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and bulimia. Unlike opioids, stimulants, and some anxiety medicines, it has a low potential for misuse and does not require the special prescribing restrictions used for controlled substances.

Being non-controlled does not mean Prozac is risk-free. It can cause side effects and may require monitoring, especially when treatment is started or the dose is changed. Some people can also experience symptoms after stopping an antidepressant, but this is not the same as addiction or a substance use disorder.

Prozac should only be taken with a prescription and according to the prescribed instructions. Do not start, stop, or change the dose without speaking with the prescribing doctor or a pharmacist.

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