Luvox (Fluvoxamine)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Luvox Used For?
Luvox is a medication that contains fluvoxamine and is primarily used to treat depression and Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD). It helps correct chemical imbalances in the brain associated with these conditions.
Primary Uses
Luvox is used to treat depression in adults and OCD in adults and children aged eight years and older.
How It Works
Luvox works by correcting chemical imbalances in the brain that contribute to depression and OCD symptoms.
Good to know: Luvox is not considered addictive.
Continue Reading
Sign in to access the complete medication guide including dosage, side effects, warnings, and more.
How to Take Luvox
It is important to take Luvox as prescribed by your doctor to achieve the best results.
Dosage Instructions
For adults, the usual starting dose is 50 mg per day, which may be adjusted by your doctor up to a maximum of 300 mg per day. For OCD treatment, the same dosage guidelines apply. Children and adolescents typically start with 25 mg per day, with a maximum of 200 mg per day.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Important: Never double the 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
- stomach pain
- constipation
- diarrhea
- heartburn
- loss of appetite
- dry mouth
- drowsiness
- difficulty sleeping
- dizziness
- nervousness
- headache
- muscle weakness
- muscle pain
- pins and needles
- abnormal taste
- faster heartbeat
- sweating
- weight gain
- weight loss
- restlessness
- pacing
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- muscle spasms or twitches
- significant bleeding or bruising
- allergic reactions causing swelling of limbs, face, lips, or throat
- prolonged muscular spasms affecting eyes, head, neck, and body
- sudden increase in body temperature
- severe convulsions
Impulse Control Issues
Patients may experience impulse control problems, including compulsive behaviors like gambling or spending.
Important Warnings
There are several important warnings to consider before taking Luvox.
Who Should Not Take Luvox
Do not take Luvox if you are allergic to fluvoxamine or any of its ingredients, are currently taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or are pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting your doctor.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have a history of bipolar disorder, liver or kidney problems, epilepsy, bleeding disorders, diabetes, glaucoma, or sexual dysfunction.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Luvox should not be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless directed by your doctor, as it can affect the baby.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Elderly patients, especially those with dementia, should be monitored closely while taking Luvox.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications can interact with Luvox, affecting its efficacy and safety.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how Luvox works.
- monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like moclobemide and selegiline
- other antidepressants such as sertraline, amitriptyline, clomipramine, imipramine
- pimozide, clozapine, olanzapine, quetiapine, lithium
- tramadol, benzodiazepines like alprazolam and diazepam
- NSAIDs like ibuprofen and diclofenac
- carbamazepine, phenytoin
- sumatriptan, zolmitriptan, eletriptan
- warfarin, aspirin, clopidogrel
- cisapride, tizanidine, ramelteon
- St John's Wort, tryptophan
- opioid medications
Alcohol & Driving
Caution is advised regarding alcohol consumption and operating machinery while taking Luvox.
Alcohol
Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Luvox, as it can increase side effects.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Luvox affects you, as it may cause drowsiness or dizziness.
Temperature Regulation
Be aware that Luvox may affect your body's ability to regulate temperature.
Storage
Store Luvox in its original packaging in a cool, dry place below 25°C. Keep it away from moisture and heat, and out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose of Luvox, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, rapid heart rate, and in severe cases, convulsions or coma.
Frequently Asked Questions
It may take 1 to 2 weeks to notice some improvement, but full effects can take 4 to 6 weeks.
You can take Luvox with or without food.
No, Luvox is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Luvox abruptly as it may cause withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor for a gradual reduction.
It is advised to avoid alcohol while taking Luvox.
Weight changes can occur, including weight gain or loss.
Elderly patients should be monitored closely while taking Luvox.
Take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for 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.