Indications
Luvox (active ingredient: fluvoxamine) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): Luvox is used for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder, including obsessions (intrusive thoughts) and compulsions (repetitive behaviors or mental acts).
- Anxiety Disorder (Social Phobia): It is indicated for the treatment of social anxiety disorder (social phobia), including fear or avoidance of social situations and performance anxiety.
- Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Luvox is also used for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder, including intrusive memories, avoidance behaviors, and hypervigilance.
Luvox belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which work by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter in the brain, thereby improving mood and reducing anxiety symptoms.
Uses and Dosage
Fluvoxamine is available in tablet form to be taken orally with or without food, as directed by a healthcare provider. It may be taken once daily at bedtime, or twice daily, with the larger of the doses taken at bedtime if they are not equal. Do not increase your dose or use this drug more often or for longer than prescribed. Take this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day.
The recommended dose of fluvoxamine (Luvox) may vary depending on the individual's age, the condition being treated, and other factors. However, here are some general dosing guidelines:
- The recommended starting dose for adult patients is 50 mg once daily at bedtime. The usual adult maintenance dose is 100-300 mg per day, taken in two divided doses.
- The starting dose for pediatric patients (age 8-17) is 25 mg once daily at bedtime. The usual pediatric maintenance dose is 50-200 mg per day, taken in two divided doses.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Luvox (Fluvoxamine):
- Constipation
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Headache
- Nervousness
- Sleepiness
- Trouble sleeping
- Upset stomach
- Weakness, feeling like you have no energy
Serious Side Effects of Luvox (Fluvoxamine):
- Anxiety
- Blurred vision
- Changes in weight or appetite
- Confusion
- Convulsions (seizures)
- Easy bruising or unusual bleeding
- Eye pain or swelling
- Feelings of extreme happiness or irritability
- Headache
- Memory problems
- Racing thoughts
- Risk-taking behavior
- Seeing halo round lights
- Severe weakness
- Sleep problems (insomnia)
- Tunnel vision
Form and Strength
Luvox (Fluvoxamine) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Luvox: Tablet
- 50mg
- 100mg
Fluvoxamine: Tablet
- 25mg
- 50mg
- 100mg
Caution
- Before taking fluvoxamine, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have. This medication may contain inactive ingredients that can cause allergic reactions or other issues. Speak with your pharmacist for more information.
- Fluvoxamine can cause or increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior in some individuals, especially children, teenagers, and young adults. The warnings include black box warnings on product labels and the need for close monitoring of patients when taking the drug.
- Fluvoxamine can cause dizziness or drowsiness, so avoid driving, using machinery, or anything that requires alertness until you can safely do so. Alcohol or cannabis can exacerbate dizziness or drowsiness. Therefore, avoid consuming alcoholic beverages and talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
- Use Fluvoxamine during pregnancy only if necessary as it can harm the unborn baby. Infants born to mothers who used this drug during the last three months of pregnancy may experience rare withdrawal symptoms like feeding/breathing problems, seizures, muscle stiffness, or constant crying.
- Do not discontinue Fluvoxamine without consulting your doctor because untreated mental/mood problems like depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder can be severe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How does Luvox work?
Luvox works by blocking the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, which increases the levels of serotonin available to nerve cells. This helps regulate mood and reduce symptoms of conditions such as OCD.
Can Luvox be taken during pregnancy?
Luvox is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks to the fetus. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before taking Luvox during pregnancy.
How long does it take for Luvox to work?
The effects of Luvox may not be felt immediately, and it may take several weeks of treatment for the medication to reach its full effectiveness.
Resources
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-1089/luvox-oral/details
- https://www.goodrx.com/fluvoxamine/what-is
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/fluvoxamine-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20066874?p=1
- https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2007/021519lbl.pdf
- https://www.rxlist.com/luvox-drug.htm
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