Drug Comparison

Fluoxetine vs. Labetalol

Compare Fluoxetine and Labetalol: mechanism of action, indications, side effects, cost, and which may be right for you.

Quick Comparison

CategoryFluoxetineLabetalol
Drug ClassSSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors)Beta-Blockers
Rx StatusRxRx
Generic AvailableNoNo
Typical Cost$4–$15/month$10–$40/month

Fluoxetine Overview

Fluoxetine is a type of antidepressant medication called a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is used to treat conditions like depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), bulimia nervosa, and panic disorder by helping to restore the balance of a natural substance called serotonin in the brain.

Full Fluoxetine guide →

Labetalol Overview

Labetalol is a medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It works by relaxing blood vessels and slowing the heart rate, which helps to lower your blood pressure. This can reduce the risk of complications like heart attack and stroke.

Full Labetalol guide →

How Each Drug Works

Fluoxetine

Although the exact mechanism of fluoxetine is unknown, it is presumed to be linked to its inhibition of CNS neuronal uptake of serotonin.

Approved Uses (Indications)

Fluoxetine

Fluoxetine is a a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor indicated for: Acute and maintenance treatment of Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) in adult and pediatric patients aged 8 to 18 years Acute and maintenance treatment of Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in adults and pediatric patients aged 7 to 17 years Acute and maintenance treatment of Bulimia Nervosa in adult patients Acute treatment of Panic Disorder, with or without agoraphobia, in adult patients 1.1 Major Depressive Disorder Fluoxetine tablets are indicated for the acute and mainten…

Labetalol

INDICATIONS AND USAGE Labetalol hydrochloride tablets, USP are indicated in the management of hypertension. Labetalol hydrochloride tablets, USP may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents, especially thiazide and loop diuretics.

Side Effects

Fluoxetine

Labetalol

Cost Comparison

Fluoxetine

$4–$15/month

As a widely available generic, Fluoxetine is very affordable. Patients can often find significant savings by using discount cards like GoodRx or checking prices at different pharmacies.

Labetalol

$10–$40/month

Generic labetalol is widely available and typically affordable. Using discount cards or coupons can further reduce the out-of-pocket cost.

Drug Interaction: Moderate

Fluoxetine, a potent CYP2D6 inhibitor, can increase plasma concentrations of labetalol, which is partially metabolized by CYP2D6. This can lead to an increased risk of beta-blocker adverse effects such as bradycardia, hypotension, and heart block.

Mechanism: Fluoxetine inhibits the cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) enzyme, reducing the metabolism of labetalol, a substrate for this enzyme. This pharmacokinetic interaction leads to higher systemic exposure to labetalol.

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Medical Disclaimer

The information on RxGuide is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, pharmacist, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.