Lovan (Fluoxetine)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Lovan Used For?
Lovan is a medication prescribed for various mental health conditions.
Primary Uses
Lovan is primarily used to treat depression, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD).
How It Works
Lovan works by affecting brain chemicals called amines that help regulate mood.
Good to know: Lovan is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Lovan
Follow your doctor's instructions carefully when taking Lovan.
Dosage Instructions
The usual starting dose is one tablet or capsule taken once daily in the morning. Your doctor may adjust this based on your response and specific condition.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and return to your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- nausea
- vomiting
- upset stomach
- diarrhea
- loss of appetite
- weight loss
- dry mouth
- trouble sleeping
- anxiety
- drowsiness
- dizziness
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- allergic reactions like rash or swelling
- shortness of breath
- muscle spasms
- tremors
- fast or irregular heartbeat
- abnormal bleeding
- mood swings
- hallucinations
- confusion
Impulse Control Issues
Patients may experience increased impulsivity or thoughts of self-harm, particularly when starting treatment or adjusting doses.
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations before taking Lovan.
Who Should Not Take Lovan
Do not take Lovan if you are allergic to fluoxetine or any of its ingredients, or if you are currently taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs).
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, seizures, diabetes, or a bleeding disorder.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, as Lovan can pass into breast milk and may pose risks during pregnancy.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Special caution is advised for elderly patients, particularly those with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Lovan can interact with several other medications, which may increase the risk of serious side effects.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how Lovan works.
- monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- lithium
- SNRIs, SSRIs, and other antidepressants
- sleeping tablets or sedatives
- anxiolytics
- antipsychotics
- pimozide
- medications for seizures
- blood thinners like warfarin
- flecainide
- tryptophan
- St John's Wort
- pain relievers like tramadol
- sumatriptan
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery while on Lovan.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor about alcohol use while taking Lovan, as it may affect your treatment.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Lovan may cause drowsiness; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you.
Storage
Store Lovan in its blister pack in a cool, dry place below 25°C for tablets and below 30°C for capsules. Keep it out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor or the Poisons Information Centre immediately, even if no symptoms are present. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, and agitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lovan usually takes two to four weeks to show noticeable improvement in symptoms.
Lovan can be taken with or without food.
No, Lovan is not considered addictive.
Stopping Lovan suddenly may cause withdrawal symptoms like dizziness, anxiety, and nausea. Consult your doctor before stopping.
It's advisable to consult your doctor about alcohol use while on Lovan.
Weight loss has been reported, but individual responses may vary.
Elderly patients should use Lovan with caution, especially those with dementia.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to your next dose. Do not double up.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.