Fluvoxamine

What is Fluvoxamine used for?

Fluvoxamine is used to treat OCD, SAD, GAD, panic disorder, PTSD, and major depressive disorder.

How does Fluvoxamine work?

Fluvoxamine works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which can help to improve mood, reduce anxiety, and improve overall well-being.

Is Fluvoxamine effective?

Fluvoxamine has been shown to effectively treat OCD, SAD, GAD, panic disorder, and MDD through increasing serotonin levels in the brain.

How does one know if Fluvoxamine is working?

Patients should keep track of their symptoms and report any changes to their healthcare provider. This can help the provider to determine if the medication is working effectively.

Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider can help to monitor the patient's response to Fluvoxamine and make any necessary adjustments to the dosage.

How do I take Fluvoxamine?

Fluvoxamine can be taken with or without food, but should be taken at the same time each day to maintain a steady level of the medication in the body.

The tablets should be swallowed whole, without chewing or crushing.

Patients should avoid drinking alcohol while taking Fluvoxamine, as it can increase the risk of side effects.

For how long do I take Fluvoxamine?

Fluvoxamine, in tablet form, has been shown to help adults with OCD long-term. While the long-term effects of the capsule form aren't as well-studied, doctors may still prescribe it if it's working well for the patient because OCD is a long-lasting condition. Studies also show it works for adults and kids in tablet form.

How long does it take for Fluvoxamine to start working?

Fluvoxamine can take 4-6 weeks to start working and patients may experience side effects during the first few weeks of treatment.

How should I store Fluvoxamine?

Fluvoxamine should be stored at room temperature, between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C), away from heat, moisture, and light.

Who should avoid taking Fluvoxamine?

Allergic reactions: Fluvoxamine can cause serious allergic reactions in some patients, including rash, hives, and difficulty breathing.

Suicidal thoughts: In some patients, Fluvoxamine can cause an increase in suicidal thoughts, especially during the first few weeks of treatment.

Serotonin syndrome: Fluvoxamine can interact with other medications to cause serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition that can cause agitation, hallucinations, and coma.

Can I take Fluvoxamine with other prescription drugs?

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): MAOIs can cause a potentially life-threatening interaction with Fluvoxamine, which can cause serotonin syndrome.

Tricyclic antidepressants: Taking Fluvoxamine with tricyclic antidepressants can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome.

Warfarin: Fluvoxamine can increase the levels of warfarin in the body, which can increase the risk of bleeding.

Can I take Fluvoxamine with vitamins or supplements?

St. John's Wort: This herbal supplement can increase the risk of side effects when taken with Fluvoxamine, such as dizziness and drowsiness.

Calcium supplements: Calcium supplements can reduce the absorption of Fluvoxamine, making it less effective.

Grapefruit juice: Grapefruit juice can increase the levels of Fluvoxamine in the body, which can increase the risk of side effects.

Can Fluvoxamine be taken safely while pregnant?

Fluvoxamine is classified as a Pregnancy Category C drug and it is not known whether it is safe for use during pregnancy. Pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider before taking the medication.

Can Fluvoxamine be taken safely while breastfeeding?

Fluvoxamine can be excreted in breast milk and can cause adverse effects in nursing infants. Therefore, breastfeeding mothers should avoid taking Fluvoxamine unless the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks.

Is Fluvoxamine safe for the elderly?

Older adults need a smaller starting dose of the medicine fluvoxamine and should increase the dose slowly. This is because their bodies remove the medicine more slowly than younger people's, leading to a higher risk of low sodium levels in the blood (hyponatremia). However, studies before the medicine was sold didn't show any major overall safety differences between older and younger people taking it.

Is it safe to exercise while taking Fluvoxamine?

Exercise is generally safe while taking Dutasteride. However, Dutasteride can sometimes cause dizziness or fatigue, so it's important to listen to your body and avoid intense physical activity if you feel unwell. Start with moderate exercises and gradually increase intensity while being mindful of any side effects you experience. Always consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns​

Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Fluvoxamine?

Drinking alcohol in moderation does not directly affect the safety or effectiveness of Dutasteride. However, both alcohol and Dutasteride can lower blood pressure, so combining the two could lead to increased dizziness or lightheadedness. It's important to stay hydrated and monitor any changes in how you feel. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice​