Fluoxetine Alternatives in Illinois
Compare generic and therapeutic alternatives to Fluoxetine (fluoxetine) available at Illinois pharmacies. Save up to 94% on your prescription — no insurance required.
Top Alternatives in Illinois
Sertraline (generic Zoloft)
therapeutic
Most prescribed SSRI — comparable efficacy, similarly priced
Avg cash price: $10/mo
Escitalopram (generic Lexapro)
therapeutic
Highly selective SSRI — often preferred for fewer drug interactions
Avg cash price: $12/mo
Prozac (brand fluoxetine)
brand
Brand name — same drug at 40× the cost
Avg cash price: $320/mo
Illinois Prescription Assistance Programs
Illinois Medicaid (Medicaid Managed Care)
Prescription drug coverage for Illinois Medicaid (HealthChoice Illinois) enrollees including generics and formulary brand medications.
Eligibility: Low-income adults, children, pregnant women, seniors, and people with disabilities meeting income and residency requirements.
Illinois Department on Aging — Benefit Access Program
Connects eligible low-income seniors to prescription assistance programs, Medicare Extra Help enrollment, and pharmaceutical manufacturer programs.
Eligibility: Illinois residents aged 65+ or those with disabilities, with income at or below applicable thresholds. Contact the Illinois Department on Aging helpline at 800-252-8966.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is fluoxetine the same as Prozac?
Yes — fluoxetine is the generic name for Prozac. Generic fluoxetine has been available since 2001 and costs $5–$12/month versus $280–$350 for brand Prozac.
Why does fluoxetine have a long half-life?
Fluoxetine has a half-life of 1–4 days (its active metabolite norfluoxetine: 4–16 days). This makes it more forgiving of missed doses and allows once-weekly dosing in some maintenance patients — unique among SSRIs.
Is fluoxetine or sertraline better for depression?
Both show comparable antidepressant efficacy in trials. Fluoxetine is more activating and may cause initial insomnia or jitteriness. Sertraline has slightly more GI side effects. Tolerability differences guide the choice.
Does fluoxetine work for OCD?
Yes — fluoxetine is FDA-approved for OCD at doses of 40–80 mg/day, typically higher than depression doses. Response in OCD may take 8–12 weeks.
What does fluoxetine cost through Script Unlock?
Fluoxetine is one of the cheapest medications available — often $5–$10/month. Script Unlock pharmacies offer competitive cash pricing, though savings may be modest given the already-low baseline cost.