Sarafem: What It Is and How It Helps

Sarafem is a brand name for fluoxetine made for premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). If monthly mood swings, irritability, or severe bloating hit you hard before your period, Sarafem can reduce symptoms for many people. It’s an SSRI antidepressant that targets brain chemicals tied to mood and physical symptoms.

How Sarafem Works and Typical Dosing

Sarafem raises serotonin levels in the brain, which can stabilize mood and lower physical discomfort linked to PMDD. Doctors commonly use two dosing patterns:

- Continuous dosing: 10–20 mg once daily every day. This is often chosen when PMDD symptoms are severe or if the person also has depression or anxiety.

- Luteal-phase dosing: 20 mg daily, started about two weeks before the expected period and stopped after the first full day of menstruation. Some people try this shorter schedule and find it works well with fewer days on medication.

Start low and follow your prescriber’s advice. A doctor may adjust the dose based on response and side effects. Don’t change or stop doses suddenly without checking with your clinician.

Side Effects, Interactions & Buying Safely Online

Common side effects include nausea, sleep changes (insomnia or sleepiness), headache, and sexual side effects. Most side effects ease after a few weeks, but if they’re severe or don’t fade, call your provider. Watch for signs of serotonin syndrome (rapid heartbeat, fever, confusion, severe tremor) especially if you combine Sarafem with other serotonergic drugs.

Sarafem interacts with MAOIs, certain migraine meds, some antidepressants, and blood thinners — which can raise bleeding risk. Tell your provider about all prescriptions, OTC drugs, and supplements. People who are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding should talk with their clinician about risks and alternatives.

Stopping Sarafem suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms like dizziness or mood changes. If you need to stop, your prescriber will usually taper the dose slowly.

Thinking of buying Sarafem online? Use caution. Always get a prescription and choose a licensed pharmacy. Look for verification seals, clear contact info, and a licensed pharmacist. Avoid sites that sell without a prescription or offer unusually low prices — they may send fake or unsafe products. If you see one of our site guides on checking Canadian or online pharmacies, use those tips to verify the seller.

Questions to ask your clinician: What dose fits my symptoms? Should I try luteal dosing first? How long before I expect benefit? When should I report side effects? Getting clear answers makes treatment safer and more effective.

Sarafem helps many people with PMDD, but it’s not one-size-fits-all. Talk openly with your provider, monitor how you feel, and use reputable pharmacies when ordering online.