What Is Fluvoxamine?

Fluvoxamine, a medication commonly known by the brand name Luvox, is an antidepressant in the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class of drugs. It is often prescribed to help treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), social anxiety disorder (SAD) and panic disorder in adults and children aged 8 and over.

What Does Fluvoxamine Do?

By increasing the amount of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, which influences mood and other brain functions, it helps to reduce the symptoms of OCD, SAD and panic disorder. It works by suppressing serotonin reuptake, which can help to reduce symptoms associated with these conditions, such as stress, nervousness, fear, panic and irritability.

How Is Fluvoxamine Taken?

Fluvoxamine is usually taken orally, one or two tablets per day. It can be taken with or without food. It’s important to take it regularly and consistently to get the best results.

Side Effects of Fluvoxamine

Like any medication, it can cause side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, vomiting, stomach upset, drowsiness, dry mouth and insomnia.

Other side effects reported are:

• • Headaches and dizziness – dizziness may also occur when first starting the medication.
  • Weight changes – increased appetite or weight gain may occur.
  • Sexual dysfunction – this may include decreased sexual desire, erection problems, delayed orgasm or ejaculation problems.
  • Sweating – fluvoxamine can cause excessive sweating.
  • Agitation and restlessness – some people may experience agitation or restlessness on fluvoxamine.
  • Sleep disturbances – some people may experience difficulties with sleeping.

 

It’s important to note that these side effects vary from person to person and that not everyone will experience the same side effects.

What To Discuss With Your Doctor Before Taking Medication?

Before starting the medication it’s important to discuss any medication you may be taking, any medical conditions you have and the possible side effects associated with this drug.

• • It’s important to mention any medication you are taking, such as anticoagulants, antiplatelets, antidepressants, lithium and monoamine oxidase inhibitors. In some cases, it’s best not to take fluvoxamine in combination with certain other drugs.
  • If you have a history of heart problems, kidney or liver problems, seizures, diabetes, bipolar disorder or manic depression, or a family history of these conditions, it’s important to tell your doctor. Fluvoxamine can interact with certain medical conditions or medications.
  • If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, it’s important to discuss this with your doctor as fluvoxamine can cause birth defects.
  • If you are breastfeeding, it’s important to know that fluvoxamine can pass into breast milk.
  • Make sure to ask your doctor about any side effects you may experience while taking fluvoxamine.

 

Conclusion

Fluvoxamine is an effective medication for treating OCD, SAD and panic disorder in adults and children aged 8 and over. It is important to discuss with your doctor any medication you may be taking, any medical conditions you have, and the possible side effects associated with this drug before taking it. This medication can cause side effects such as nausea, fatigue, changes in weight, sexual dysfunction, excessive sweating, agitation and restlessness, and sleep disturbances. It’s also important to remember that these side effects vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience the same side effects.