Fluvator

Fluvator Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Fluvator is a brand name. Its generic name is Fluvoxamine.

Fluvator Introduction

Fluvator (brand name of Luvox) is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressant medication that is used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), major depressive disorder (MDD), and other anxiety disorders.

Uses for Fluvator

Fluvator is primarily prescribed to treat OCD, MDD, and other anxiety disorders. It may also be used to treat panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), social anxiety disorder, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).

Mechanism of Action

Fluvator works by increasing the level of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, in the brain. This increase in serotonin helps reduce symptoms of OCD, MDD, and other anxiety disorders.

How Long Does It Take to Work?

It usually takes several weeks for Fluvator to reach its full effectiveness. In some cases, Fluvator may take up to 8 weeks to work.

Absorption

Fluvator is rapidly and completely absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract with peak plasma concentrations occurring within one hour after ingestion.

Route of Elimination

Fluvator is primarily eliminated through hepatic metabolism. Most of the drug is metabolized to its active metabolite, desmethyl fluvoxamine.

Dosage

The recommended starting dose for Fluvator is 50 mg once daily taken in the evening. Depending on the patient’s response, the dose may be increased or decreased to an optimal dose of 25-200 mg/day, taken either as a single dose or two divided doses.

Administration

Fluvator should be taken in the evening, on an empty stomach or with a meal or light snack, about the same time each day. It is important to take it regularly and exactly as prescribed by your doctor.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Fluvator include nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, headache, drowsiness, dizziness, loss of appetite, increased sweating, and difficulty sleeping. More serious side effects include seizures, confusion, abnormal bleeding, bluish skin discoloration, and tremor.

Toxicity

Overdosing on Fluvator can lead to serious side effects and can even be fatal. If you suspect an overdose, contact your health care provider or poison control center immediately.

Precaution

Before taking Fluvator, make sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications, especially antidepressants, anticoagulants, or medications to treat seizures as these medications may interact with Fluvator. You should also inform you doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of bipolar disorder, depression, or suicidal thoughts.

Interaction

Fluvator can interact with various other drugs, including MAO inhibitors (drugs used to treat depression, anxiety, or other psychiatric conditions), narcotic pain medications, certain anti-seizure drugs, sedatives, and herbal supplements. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications that you are taking, as interactions are possible.

Disease Interaction

Fluvator should be used with caution in patients with liver or kidney diseases, bipolar disorder, or seizure disorders. You should inform your doctor if you have any of these conditions before taking Fluvator.

Drug Interaction

Fluvator may interact with other medications, including other drugs used to treat depression, antidepressants, anticoagulants, and medications used to treat seizures or other mental health disorders. It is important to tell your doctor about all medications that you are taking before beginning Fluvator.

Food Interactions

There are no known food interactions with Fluvator. However, it is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about diet restrictions.

Pregnancy Use

Fluvator should be used with caution in pregnant women as there is not enough evidence to conclude that it is safe in this population. You should talk to your doctor if you are pregnant before taking Fluvator.

Lactation Use

Fluvator is excreted in breast milk and may cause harm to the fetus and the infant. Therefore, it should be avoided in breastfeeding women.

Acute Overdose

An acute overdose of Fluvator may cause symptoms such as drowsiness, difficulty breathing, confusion, coma, and death. If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention.

Contraindication

Fluvator should not be used in patients with known hypersensitivity to fluvoxamine, or any of its components. It should also not be used in patients with severe hepatic impairment, narrow angle glaucoma, or in combination with MAO inhibitors.

Use Direction

Fluvator should be used exactly as prescribed by your doctor. It should be taken in the evening, on an empty stomach or with a meal or light snack, about the same time each day. It is important to take Fluvator regularly and exactly as prescribed in order to get the most benefit.

Storage Condition

Fluvator should be stored at room temperature, away from direct light and moisture. Keep Fluvator out of reach of children and away from pets.

Volume of Distribution

Fluvator has a large volume of distribution, with an average of 10.8 L/kg.

Half Life

The half-life of Fluvator is approximately 20 hours.

Clearance

Fluvator is eliminated mainly through hepatic metabolism, with an average clearance of 1.5 L/h/kg.

Here you find in details version of Fluvator

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Fluvator

What is Fluvator?

Fluvator is an antidepressant medication that belongs to the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class of drugs. It works by increasing the amounts of serotonin in the brain. This is a chemical that helps maintain mental balance.

What are the uses of Fluvator?

Fluvator is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder in adults and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in adults and children age 8 and older.

How does Fluvator work?

Fluvator works is by increasing serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, and increasing levels can help reduce symptoms of depression and OCD.

What are the side effects of Fluvator?

The most common side effects of Fluvator include nausea, dry mouth, constipation, dizziness, headaches, sweating, glowing feeling, sleep disturbances, and increased anxiety. Other more serious side effects, including changes in behavior, agitation, and suicidal thoughts, have also been reported.

How should Fluvator be taken?

Fluvator should be taken according to your doctor's instructions. The usual dose is once a day in the morning, with or without food. If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at the same time or take more than one dose in 24 hours.

How long does it take for Fluvator to work?

It may take several weeks for Fluvator to start to work. It is important to take the medication on a regular basis and to continue taking it as prescribed. Do not stop taking Fluvator or reduce your dose without consulting your doctor.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Fluvator?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue on with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time or take more than one dose in 24 hours.

Is Fluvator safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

Fluvator has been classified as a pregnancy category C medication by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), meaning there is not enough evidence to determine whether it may be harmful to pregnant women or their unborn babies. Similarly, there is not enough evidence to determine whether it is safe for use while breastfeeding.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Fluvator?

It is not recommended to drink alcohol while taking Fluvator since it can increase the risk of side effects and is not recommended by many doctors.

Can Fluvator cause weight gain?

Weight gain is a potential side effect of Fluvator. If you are concerned about weight gain, talk to your doctor about other options.

Does Fluvator cause drowsiness?

Yes, Fluvator can cause drowsiness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how Fluvator affects you.

Does Fluvator interact with other medications?

Yes, Fluvator can interact with other medications, including some antibiotics, antifungals, antidepressants, and more. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medications while on Fluvator.

What should I do if I experience a side effect while taking Fluvator?

If you experience any side effects while taking Fluvator, contact your doctor or pharmacist right away. Do not stop taking Fluvator or change your dose without first consulting your doctor.

Is Fluvator habit-forming?

No, Fluvator is not considered habit-forming. However, if you feel you are having difficulty stopping Fluvator, contact your doctor.

Should I take Fluvator with food?

Fluvator can be taken with or without food. However, it may be best to take Fluvator with a meal to reduce the risk of side effects, such as nausea.

What forms does Fluvator come in?

Fluvator is available in oral tablet and suspension forms.

Can Fluvator be used to treat anxiety?

Fluvator is not typically used to treat anxiety. It is typically used to treat major depression and OCD.

Should I talk to my doctor before taking Fluvator?

Yes, you should talk to your doctor before taking Fluvator. Your doctor can help you decide if Fluvator is the right medication for you and can help you decide the best dose for you.

Can children take Fluvator?

Fluvator is approved for use in children age 8 and older. Talk to your doctor if you are considering Fluvator for your child.

Can Fluvator cause depression?

Fluvator is used to treat depression, but it can also cause depression in some patients. If you experience symptoms of depression while taking Fluvator, talk to your doctor right away.

Can Fluvator help with panic attacks?

Fluvator is not typically used to treat panic attacks. Talk to your doctor about other medications that may be able to help with panic attacks.

What is the usual dose of Fluvator?

The usual dose of Fluvator is 100-200mg per day. Your doctor may adjust this dose based on your individual needs and response to the medication.

Is Fluvator a narcotic?

No, Fluvator is not a narcotic or controlled substance.

Can Fluvator be used to treat bipolar disorder?

Fluvator is not typically used to treat bipolar disorder. Talk to your doctor about other medications that may be able to help with bipolar disorder.

What should I do if I experience suicidal thoughts while taking Fluvator?

If you experience suicidal thoughts while taking Fluvator, contact your doctor right away. Call 911 or seek emergency medical help if you are feeling like hurting yourself or someone else.

What other medications should not be taken with Fluvator?

Fluvator can interact with certain medications, including some antibiotics, antifungals, antidepressants, and more. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medications while taking Fluvator.

Can Fluvator be used to treat insomnia?

Fluvator is not typically used to treat insomnia. Talk to your doctor about other medications that may be able to help with insomnia.

Can Fluvator be used to treat headaches?

Fluvator is not typically used to treat headaches. Talk to your doctor about other medications that may be able to help with headaches.

Are there any long-term risks associated with taking Fluvator?

There are no known long-term risks associated with taking Fluvator. However, you should talk to your doctor about any concerns you have.

What should I do if I experience withdrawal symptoms when stopping Fluvator?

If you experience any withdrawal symptoms when stopping Fluvator, contact your doctor and seek medical advice.

Can Fluvator be used to treat anxiety and depression?

Yes, Fluvator is approved to treat both major depression and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Can I take other antidepressants while taking Fluvator?

No, you should not take other antidepressants while taking Fluvator without consulting your doctor.

Can Fluvator be used to treat ADHD?

No, Fluvator is not typically used to treat ADHD.

How long should I stay on Fluvator?

Talk to your doctor about how long you should stay on Fluvator. Do not stop taking Fluvator or reduce your dose without consulting your doctor.

Can Fluvator be used to treat panic disorder?

Fluvator is not typically used to treat panic disorder. Talk to your doctor about other medications that may be able to help with panic disorder.

Does Fluvator interact with any herbs or supplements?

Yes, Fluvator can interact with some herbs and supplements, including St. John's Wort, Ginkgo biloba, and Passionflower. Ask your doctor or pharmacist before taking any supplements or herbs while taking Fluvator.

Should I let my doctor know if I'm taking any vitamin supplements or herbs while taking Fluvator?

Yes, you should let your doctor know if you are taking any vitamins or herbs while taking Fluvator since these can interact with the medication.

Is Fluvator available in generic form?

Yes, Fluvator is available in generic form.

Is Fluvator a controlled substance?

No, Fluvator is not a controlled substance.

How long does it take for Fluvator to start working?

It may take several weeks for Fluvator to start working. It is important to take the medication on a regular basis and to continue taking it as prescribed.