Fluvoxamine

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

Fluvoxamine Introduction

Fluvoxamine (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 Fluvoxamine

Fluvoxamine 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

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine to reach its full effectiveness. In some cases, Fluvoxamine may take up to 8 weeks to work.

Absorption

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

Route of Elimination

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

Dosage

The recommended starting dose for Fluvoxamine 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

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine, 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 Fluvoxamine. You should also inform you doctor if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a history of bipolar disorder, depression, or suicidal thoughts.

Interaction

Fluvoxamine 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

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine.

Drug Interaction

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine.

Food Interactions

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

Pregnancy Use

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine.

Lactation Use

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

Contraindication

Fluvoxamine 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

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine regularly and exactly as prescribed in order to get the most benefit.

Storage Condition

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

Volume of Distribution

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

Half Life

The half-life of Fluvoxamine is approximately 20 hours.

Clearance

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

Here you find in details version of Fluvoxamine

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Fluvoxamine

What is Fluvoxamine?

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine?

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine work?

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine?

The most common side effects of Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine be taken?

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine to work?

It may take several weeks for Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine or reduce your dose without consulting your doctor.

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

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 Fluvoxamine safe to take if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine?

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

Can Fluvoxamine cause weight gain?

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

Does Fluvoxamine cause drowsiness?

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

Does Fluvoxamine interact with other medications?

Yes, Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine.

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

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

Is Fluvoxamine habit-forming?

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

Should I take Fluvoxamine with food?

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

What forms does Fluvoxamine come in?

Fluvoxamine is available in oral tablet and suspension forms.

Can Fluvoxamine be used to treat anxiety?

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine?

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

Can children take Fluvoxamine?

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

Can Fluvoxamine cause depression?

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

Can Fluvoxamine help with panic attacks?

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine?

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

Is Fluvoxamine a narcotic?

No, Fluvoxamine is not a narcotic or controlled substance.

Can Fluvoxamine be used to treat bipolar disorder?

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine?

If you experience suicidal thoughts while taking Fluvoxamine, 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 Fluvoxamine?

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine.

Can Fluvoxamine be used to treat insomnia?

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

Can Fluvoxamine be used to treat headaches?

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine?

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

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

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

Can Fluvoxamine be used to treat anxiety and depression?

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

Can I take other antidepressants while taking Fluvoxamine?

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

Can Fluvoxamine be used to treat ADHD?

No, Fluvoxamine is not typically used to treat ADHD.

How long should I stay on Fluvoxamine?

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

Can Fluvoxamine be used to treat panic disorder?

Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine interact with any herbs or supplements?

Yes, Fluvoxamine 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 Fluvoxamine.

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

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

Is Fluvoxamine available in generic form?

Yes, Fluvoxamine is available in generic form.

Is Fluvoxamine a controlled substance?

No, Fluvoxamine is not a controlled substance.

How long does it take for Fluvoxamine to start working?

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