Fluvoxamine
Fluvoxamine
Fluvoxamine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is primarily used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, helping reduce obsessive thoughts and compulsive behaviors. Fluvoxamine is available in various forms, including oral tablets and extended-release capsules. Common side effects include nausea, drowsiness, and dizziness, while more serious side effects may involve suicidal thoughts or serotonin syndrome. It is important to follow your doctor’s prescribed dosage and instructions closely when you buy Fluvoxamine online to treat OCD. This medication may interact with various drugs, so it’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you’re taking.
Product Overview
Fluvoxamine, an antidepressant classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), is primarily prescribed for obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). By increasing serotonin levels in the brain, fluvoxamine helps alleviate symptoms like intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors associated with OCD. In addition to its standard use, it may be prescribed for other conditions based on a healthcare provider’s judgment. Fluvoxamine is available as tablets and extended-release capsules, with common dosages ranging from 25 mg to 150 mg.
The medication is typically taken at bedtime, with a maximum daily dosage of 300 mg for adults. Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, sleepiness, and sexual dysfunction. Children may experience increased agitation, unusual muscle movements, or slower growth. Serious side effects include serotonin syndrome, suicidal thoughts, and seizures. Patients with a history of mania, seizures, or liver disease should be closely monitored. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before they buy Fluvoxamine online from Canada.
The medication may interact with a variety of other drugs, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tricyclic antidepressants, and NSAIDs, potentially increasing the risk of side effects. It’s important to avoid alcohol while on fluvoxamine as it can enhance drowsiness. Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage, and consult them about potential drug interactions.
What Is Fluvoxamine Used to Treat?
- Treats Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)
What Strengths and Forms Does Fluvoxamine Come In?
It comes in the following forms and strengths mentioned below:
- Fluvoxamine 25 mg oral tablets
- Fluvoxamine 50 mg oral tablets
- Fluvoxamine 100 mg oral tablets
- Fluvoxamine 100 mg extended-release oral capsules
- Fluvoxamine 150 mg extended-release oral capsules
What Is the Recommended Dosage of Fluvoxamine?
Fluvoxamine Dosage for OCD
Extended-Release Capsules (Oral):
- Adults:
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- Initial Dose: Start with 100 milligrams (mg) taken once daily at bedtime.
- Dosage Adjustment: Your doctor may adjust the dosage based on your response to the treatment.
- Maximum Dose: Typically, the dosage should not exceed 300 mg per day.
-
- Children: The use and appropriate dosage of Fluvoxamine for children must be specifically determined by a healthcare provider.
Tablets (Oral):
- Adults:
-
-
- Initial Dose: Start with 50 milligrams (mg) taken once daily at bedtime.
- Dosage Adjustment: Your doctor may adjust the dosage as necessary.
- Maximum Dose: Typically, the dosage should not exceed 300 mg per day.
- Multiple Doses: If your daily dose is more than 100 mg, your doctor may instruct you to take it in two divided doses.
-
- Children (8 to 17 years old):
-
- Initial Dose: Start with 25 mg once daily at bedtime.
- Dosage Adjustment: Your doctor may adjust the dosage based on the child’s response and age.
- Maximum Dose: The dosage should not exceed 200 mg to 300 mg per day, depending on the age.
- Multiple Doses: If the daily dose is more than 50 mg, it may be divided into two doses as directed by the doctor.
- Children (younger than 8 years old): The use and appropriate dosage must be determined by a healthcare provider.
[Note: Remember, these recommendations may vary from person to person. Discuss it with your doctor, and they’ll customize your dosage accordingly.]
How to Take Fluvoxamine?
- Medication Guide: Fluvoxamine comes with a Medication Guide that provides detailed instructions on how to use the medicine correctly. Read this guide thoroughly and make sure to follow the instructions. If anything is unclear or if you have further questions, do not hesitate to ask your doctor for clarification.
- When to Take Fluvoxamine: You can take fluvoxamine with or without food. It is usually recommended to take your dose at bedtime unless your doctor specifies otherwise, as this can help manage any potential side effects such as drowsiness during your waking hours.
- Taking the Capsule: If you are prescribed the extended-release capsule form of fluvoxamine, swallow the capsule whole. Do not crush, break, or chew it, as this can release the entire drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
- Duration of Treatment: Be prepared that it may take several months before you start feeling the benefits of fluvoxamine. Consistent use as prescribed is crucial for the medication to be effective.
- Dosage Variances: The appropriate dose of fluvoxamine can vary from one patient to another. It’s essential to adhere strictly to the dosage plan prescribed by your doctor. The average doses provided on the medication label or by your pharmacist serve only as a general guide.
[Note: Your doctor will decide the right amount for you based on your condition, following guidelines and studies on the drug. They’ll adjust it as needed over time.]
How Does Fluvoxamine Work for OCD?
Fluvoxamine is classified as an antidepressant and is part of the group of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This medication functions by enhancing the levels of serotonin, a natural chemical in the brain. Serotonin plays a crucial role in regulating mood, emotions, and sleep. By increasing serotonin levels, fluvoxamine helps improve communication between nerve cells in the brain and stabilizes mood, which is beneficial in treating depression and anxiety disorders.
Important Safety Information for Using Fluvoxamine
What Are the Side Effects of Fluvoxamine?
Common Side Effects of Fluvoxamine: Like all medications, when you buy Fluvoxamine can cause side effects. These side effects are generally mild and temporary, often resolving within a few days to weeks. If these side effects persist beyond a short period, become bothersome, or intensify, it is crucial to consult your doctor or pharmacist. They can offer guidance on managing side effects or adjusting your medication if necessary. Common side effects you might experience include:
- Dry mouth
- Weakness
- Peeing more often
- Unusual taste
- Shaking
- Sleepiness
- Muscle pain
- Stuffy nose, sore throat
- Sweating
- Anxiety
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Trouble sleeping
- Indigestion, upset stomach, loss of appetite
- Yawning
- Dizziness
- Sexual problems
The common side effects of fluvoxamine in adolescents or children may include:
- Rash
- Unusual increase in muscle movements or agitation
- Depression
- Heavy menstrual periods
- Gas
- Possible slower growth rate and weight change
Serious Side Effects of Fluvoxamine: While rare, fluvoxamine can also cause serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the mentioned serious side effects, contact your doctor immediately. If the side effects feel life-threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away. These are not all the possible serious side effects but include some that could be critical:
- Serotonin syndrome and its symptoms includes:
- Confusion
- Sweating, fever, or flushing
- Feeling agitated or restless
- Dizziness
- Seeing or hearing unusual things
- Fast or racing heartbeat
- Muscle twitching, stiffness, or tremor
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Seizures
- Suicidal thoughts or actions and its symptoms includes:
- New or increased feelings of anxiety, depression, or other unusual changes in your mood or behavior
- Suicide attempt
- New or increased thoughts of suicide or death
- Extremely elevated mood (mania) and its symptoms includes:
- Significant trouble sleeping
- Engaging in reckless behavior
- Dramatic increase in energy
- Your thoughts are racing and fast-paced
- Having unusually grand ideas
- Talking more or faster than usual
- Feeling excessively happy or irritable
- Glaucoma and its symptoms includes:
- Eye pain or redness
- Loss of vision
- Seeing bright, colorful circles around lights (vision halos)
- Severe headache or vomiting
- Seizures and its symptoms includes:
- Stiffening of your arms and legs
- Spasms, jerking, tremors, muscle twitching, or other uncontrolled movements
- Feeling anxious, nervous, confused, or a sense of dread
- Falling or losing consciousness
- Feeling dizzy or lightheaded
- Sexual problems and its symptoms includes:
- Delayed ejaculation or unable to have an ejaculation
- Decreased sex drive
- Delayed orgasm or unable to have an orgasm
- Problems getting or keeping an erection
- Abnormal bleeding and its symptoms includes:
- Restlessness or irritability
- Weight gain
- Seizures
- Dizziness
- Nausea, vomiting, or loss of appetite
- Change in your mental condition such as confusion, hallucinations, alertness, or decreased awareness
- Muscle weakness or cramps
- Tiredness or sleepiness
- Headache
- Drowsiness
- Severe allergic reactions and its symptoms includes:
- Trouble swallowing or throat tightness
- Fever or general ill feeling
- Dizziness, feeling lightheaded, or fainting
- Swollen lymph nodes
- Joint pain
- Itching, skin rash, or pale red bumps on the skin called hives
- Nausea or vomiting
- Swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, or throat
- Racing heart
- Stomach cramps
- Breathing problems or wheezing
[Note: Remember, this list may not cover all possible side effects. Always consult with your healthcare giver for medical advice about side effects.]
Are There Any Warnings for Fluvoxamine?
- Abnormal Bleeding Warning: There is an increased risk of bleeding or bruising when taking fluvoxamine, especially if you are also using other medications that affect blood clotting. These include aspirin, warfarin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen. Monitor for signs of unusual bleeding and discuss the risks with your doctor.
- Serotonin Syndrome Warning: Fluvoxamine may lead to a potentially life-threatening condition known as serotonin syndrome, which results from too much serotonin accumulating in the body. Symptoms to watch for include agitation, hallucinations, coordination problems, or muscle stiffness.
- Manic Episodes Warning: Fluvoxamine can trigger manic episodes, particularly in individuals with a history of mania. Before starting treatment with fluvoxamine, make sure to discuss your medical history with your doctor to ensure this medication is safe for you.
What Are the FDA Boxed Warning for Fluvoxamine?
- FDA Warning: Suicidal Thoughts and Actions Fluvoxamine comes with the most severe warning issued by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), known as a boxed warning. This warning highlights the risk of suicidal thoughts or actions associated with the drug, particularly in children, teenagers, or young adults. The risk is higher during the initial months of treatment or when the dose is changed. It is vital to watch for any new or sudden changes in mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings, especially if they are severe. If you notice these changes in yourself or your child, contact your doctor right away.
What Are the Fluvoxamine Precautions?
If you buy Fluvoxamine online from Canada follow these precautions to ensure you get the maximum benefits of your medicine:
- For People with Angle-Closure Glaucoma: Fluvoxamine may increase the risk of an angle-closure glaucoma attack, leading to fluid buildup and extreme pressure inside your eye. If you have this condition, discuss the risks with your doctor before starting this medication.
- For People with Seizures: Fluvoxamine may increase the risk of seizures, especially in individuals with unstable epilepsy, who should not use this drug. Those with a history of seizures or controlled epilepsy need to be closely monitored. If you experience new or more frequent seizures while taking fluvoxamine, consult your doctor about potentially discontinuing the medication.
- For People with Liver Disease: Individuals with liver disease may not process fluvoxamine as efficiently, which can lead to drug accumulation in the body. To prevent this, your doctor might start you on a lower dose and carefully monitor your condition during dose adjustments.
- For Pregnant Women: Fluvoxamine falls under Category C for pregnancy, indicating potential risks:
- Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus.
- Studies in humans are insufficient to determine the safety during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. If you become pregnant while taking fluvoxamine, inform your doctor immediately.
- For Seniors: Older adults may be more sensitive to fluvoxamine and metabolize the drug more slowly, increasing the risk of side effects, such as low sodium levels. Seniors should use fluvoxamine with caution, and dosage adjustments may be necessary.
- For Women Who Are Breastfeeding: Fluvoxamine can pass into breast milk and might cause side effects in a breastfeeding infant. Talk to your doctor if you are breastfeeding to decide whether you should discontinue nursing or stop taking the medication.
- For Children: The safety and effectiveness of fluvoxamine extended-release capsules in individuals younger than 18 years have not been established.
- Sun Sensitivity: Fluvoxamine may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight, increasing your risk of sunburn. Limit your sun exposure, wear protective clothing, and apply sunscreen when outdoors.
- Clinical Monitoring: Your doctor should closely monitor your behavior for any unusual changes in mood, weight, or appetite while you are taking fluvoxamine.
What Are the Contraindications of Fluvoxamine?
- Allergies to Ingredients: Individuals who have a known allergy to any of the following should not take fluvoxamine:
- Luvox (brand name for fluvoxamine)
- Fluvoxamine itself
- Any other ingredients listed in the fluvoxamine product being used
What If You Miss a Dose of Fluvoxamine?
- If you miss a dose of fluvoxamine, take it as soon as you remember.
- However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
- Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one, as this can increase the risk of side effects.
[Note: If you have missed a dose of your medication and are unsure about when to take the next one, immediately consult your doctor or pharmacist.]
What Happens If You Take Too Much of Fluvoxamine?
Overdosing on fluvoxamine can lead to potentially dangerous effects. Symptoms of an overdose may include:
- Difficulty breathing
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
- Extreme sleepiness
- Shakiness
- An abnormal or racing heartbeat
If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor immediately or call the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 1-800-222-1222. Their online tool is also available for guidance. In cases of severe symptoms, call 911 or head to the nearest emergency room.
[Note: If you consumed more than recommended dose, get medical help right away, or call the Poison Help line at 1-800-222-1222.]
How to Store Fluvoxamine?
- Store fluvoxamine at room temperature, ideally between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C). Protect the medication from light and avoid storing it in areas that are prone to moisture or dampness, such as bathrooms.
- Proper storage helps maintain the effectiveness of the medication and prevents degradation.
[Note: Discuss with your healthcare professional about the proper disposal of any unused medicine and any questions you may have regarding its storage.]
What Medications Interact with Fluvoxamine?
When taking medications such as fluvoxamine, it is crucial to be aware of potential interactions with other drugs. Interactions between fluvoxamine and other substances can affect how well each medication works and increase the risk of adverse effects. Here are some specific medications and substances that can have serious interactions with fluvoxamine:
- Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs): These include medications typically used for depression or Parkinson’s disease. Avoid using fluvoxamine within 2 weeks of taking MAOIs to prevent dangerous interactions.
- Pimozide: Commonly used for Tourette syndrome, pimozide can interact negatively with fluvoxamine.
- Tizanidine (Zanaflex): This muscle relaxant should not be used concurrently with fluvoxamine due to potential adverse effects.
- Alosetron (Lotronex): Used to treat IBS-D, alosetron should be used with caution or avoided when taking fluvoxamine.
- Certain Antipsychotics: Medications such as thioridazine, ziprasidone, clozapine, and chlorpromazine can have serious interactions with fluvoxamine.
- Tricyclic Antidepressants: Including amitriptyline, nortriptyline, and protriptyline, even if not used for depression.
- SSRIs and SNRIs: These are commonly prescribed for anxiety and depression and can lead to serotonin syndrome if combined with fluvoxamine.
- Triptans: Used to treat migraines, such as sumatriptan and eletriptan, should be used cautiously with fluvoxamine.
- St. John’s Wort: A supplement sometimes used for depression that can reduce the effectiveness of fluvoxamine.
- Tryptophan: A supplement that might be used for treating mental health conditions and can increase serotonin levels dangerously when combined with fluvoxamine.
- Lithium: Used for certain mental health conditions and requires careful monitoring when taken with fluvoxamine.
- Buspirone: An anxiety medication that can interact with fluvoxamine.
- Certain Anticonvulsants: Such as phenytoin and carbamazepine, used for epilepsy, which may have interactions with fluvoxamine.
- Amphetamines: Such as Adderall, used for ADHD or narcolepsy, which can have increased effects when taken with fluvoxamine.
- Opioids: Such as tramadol, methadone, or fentanyl, which have enhanced effects and increased risk of serotonin syndrome with fluvoxamine.
- Certain Antibiotics: Such as erythromycin, which can interact with fluvoxamine.
- Medicines for Abnormal Heart Rhythm: Such as amiodarone or mexiletine, which can have increased levels and effects with fluvoxamine.
- Beta-Blockers and Calcium Channel Blockers: Such as metoprolol, propranolol, verapamil, or diltiazem, which are used for heart conditions or blood pressure and may interact with fluvoxamine.
- Medicines that Affect Bleeding: Including NSAIDs, warfarin, or aspirin, which can increase the risk of bleeding when combined with fluvoxamine.
- Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs): Such as esomeprazole or omeprazole, which can affect the metabolism of fluvoxamine.
- Theophylline: Used to treat lung conditions, which can have altered effects when taken with fluvoxamine.
- Other Medicines that Cause Dizziness and Sleepiness: Including prescription pain medicines, sleep aids, and anxiety medications.
What Are the Other Fluvoxamine Interactions?
Fluvoxamine may interact with other substances mentioned below:
- Food and Drink Interactions: While there are no specific known interactions between fluvoxamine and any foods or drinks, it is essential to consider how lifestyle factors might influence the effectiveness of the medication.
- Alcohol Interaction: It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking fluvoxamine. Alcohol can exacerbate the sedative effects of fluvoxamine, potentially increasing drowsiness and impairing your ability to concentrate or stay alert. This combination can also intensify the side effects associated with fluvoxamine, making it more challenging to manage your condition safely and effectively.
[Note: This isn’t a complete list, and there could be other drugs that interact with Fluvoxamine. Make sure to tell your doctor any prescription, over-the-counter medicines, and herbal products you’re taking.]
What Are the Fluvoxamine Alternatives?
- Trintellix (vortioxetine)
- Celexa (citalopram)
- Savella (milnacipran)
- Prozac (fluoxetine)
- Lexapro (escitalopram)
- Paxil (paroxetine)
- Viibryd (vilazodone)
- Zoloft (sertraline)
- Cymbalta (duloxetine)
- Pristiq (desvenlafaxine)
- Effexor XR (venlafaxine)
- Wellbutrin XL (bupropion)
- Parnate (tranylcypromine)
- Nardil (phenelzine)
[Note: Your doctor will choose what’s best for you. Don’t use any of these alternative medications without consulting your healthcare provider. Taking them by yourself may cause serious side effects.]
Fluvoxamine Cost & Coupons
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Frequently Asked Questions
What happens If you stop taking Fluvoxamine suddenly?
If you discontinue fluvoxamine abruptly, you may experience severe withdrawal symptoms that can affect both your mental and physical health. These symptoms might include:
- Emotional and Behavioral Changes: You may feel increased anxiety, irritability, mood swings (either feeling excessively high or low), and restlessness. Changes in your sleep patterns, such as insomnia or excessive sleepiness, can also occur.
- Physical Symptoms: Common physical withdrawal symptoms include headaches, excessive sweating, nausea, dizziness, and sensations of tingling or shaking. Some people may also experience confusion during this period.
What is the best time of day to take Luvox?
Fluvoxamine, commonly known as Luvox, is generally best taken at bedtime. This timing can help minimize some of the medication’s side effects, such as drowsiness, allowing for a more comfortable sleep. It is important to take the medication as a whole extended-release capsule without crushing, breaking, or chewing it.
How long does it take for Luvox to kick in?
When starting Luvox (fluvoxamine), initial improvements in sleep, energy, or appetite may be noticeable within the first one to two weeks. These early changes are significant as they indicate that the medication is beginning to take effect. However, more profound symptoms such as a depressed mood and a lack of interest in activities typically require more time to improve, often up to 6-8 weeks.
Is fluvoxamine the same as Prozac?
Both fluvoxamine and Prozac are used to treat major depressive disorder and share a similar level of overall effectiveness. However, there are distinctions between the two that might make one more suitable than the other depending on individual needs. These differences could relate to side effects, how the body metabolizes the drugs, or specific symptoms that are more effectively treated by one medication over the other. Your doctor will consider these factors when deciding which medication is best for your particular situation.
Is fluvoxamine a strong SSRI?
Fluvoxamine is considered a potent selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). It is particularly effective in increasing serotonin levels in the brain because it has about a hundred times greater affinity for the serotonin transporter compared to the norepinephrine transporter. This specificity makes it effective at enhancing mood and treating depression and OCD. Fluvoxamine has minimal interaction with other neurotransmitter systems, such as dopamine, with the exception of a moderate affinity for the σ1 receptor, which could influence its effects on nerve signaling and regulation.
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