A nurse should administer prescribed fluoxetine hydrochloride (Prozac)

• A. In the morning
• B. On an as needed basis
• C. At bedtime
• D. On an empty stomach

Answer: (A)

Fluoxetine is an activating SSRI, and it commonly causes insomnia or restlessness in some patients. Giving it in the morning helps minimize sleep disturbances and aligns with daytime activity, supporting better adherence and daily symptom management. SSRIs require consistent daily dosing to build therapeutic levels and improve mood over weeks; administering it as-needed would not provide steady drug exposure or adequate treatment. Taking it at bedtime is usually avoided because of the potential for sleep disruption, though it can be taken with or without food—the timing in the morning is preferred to reduce insomnia and maximize daytime functioning.