Indications
- Fluvoxamine is utilized to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).
- It falls into a category of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
- Its mechanism of action involves restoring the balance of a specific natural substance, serotonin, in the brain.
Dosage and administration
- Before starting fluvoxamine, read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
- Take this medication orally with or without food as instructed by your doctor, usually once daily at bedtime, or twice daily (morning and bedtime). If taking it twice daily and doses are unequal, take the larger dose at bedtime.
- Dosage is determined by your medical condition, response to treatment, age, and other medications you may be taking. Inform your doctor and pharmacist about all products you use, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal products. For children, dosage may also depend on age and gender. Your doctor may advise starting at a low dose and gradually increasing it to minimize side effects.
- Do not exceed the prescribed dose or use more frequently or for longer than directed. Increasing the dose won’t expedite improvement and may heighten the risk of side effects. Take this medication regularly at the same time(s) each day to maximize its benefits. Use a reminder if needed.
- Continue taking fluvoxamine even if you feel well. Do not discontinue without consulting your doctor, as some conditions may worsen if abruptly stopped. You may experience withdrawal symptoms such as mood swings, headaches, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and electric shock-like sensations. To minimize these symptoms, your doctor may taper your dose gradually when discontinuing treatment. Report any new or worsening symptoms promptly.
- It may take several weeks before experiencing the full benefits of this medication.
- Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsens.
Side effects
- Nausea, vomiting, drowsiness, dizziness, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, weakness, and sweating may occur while taking this medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
- Remember, your doctor has prescribed this medication because they believe its benefits outweigh the risks of side effects. Many individuals using this medication do not experience serious side effects.
- Notify your doctor immediately if you experience any serious side effects, such as easy bleeding or bruising, tremors, decreased interest in sex, or changes in sexual ability.
- Seek medical help right away if you encounter very serious side effects, including fainting, irregular heartbeat, black stools, vomit resembling coffee grounds, seizures, eye pain/swelling/redness, dilated pupils, or vision changes (such as seeing halos around lights at night or blurred vision).
- This medication may increase serotonin levels and rarely cause a serious condition called serotonin syndrome/toxicity. The risk rises if you are also taking other drugs that increase serotonin. Inform your doctor or pharmacist of all medications you are taking. Seek immediate medical assistance if you develop symptoms such as rapid heartbeat, hallucinations, loss of coordination, severe dizziness, severe nausea/vomiting/diarrhea, muscle twitching, unexplained fever, or unusual restlessness.
- Rarely, males may experience a painful or prolonged erection lasting 4 or more hours. If this occurs, discontinue use and seek immediate medical help to prevent permanent problems.
- Although rare, seek medical help immediately if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
- This list does not encompass all possible side effects. If you observe any other effects not mentioned above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
- Antidepressant medications are prescribed to treat various conditions, including depression and other mental/mood disorders. These medications can help alleviate symptoms of depression and provide other significant benefits.
- However, research has indicated that a small number of individuals, particularly those under 25 years old, may experience worsening depression, mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts when taking antidepressants for any condition.
- It is crucial to have a discussion with your doctor regarding the risks and benefits of antidepressant medication, especially for individuals under 25, even if the treatment is not primarily for a mental/mood condition.
- If you notice worsening depression or other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including potential suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (such as new or worsening anxiety, panic attacks, sleep disturbances, irritability, hostility, impulsive behavior, severe restlessness, or rapid speech), inform your doctor immediately.
- Pay close attention to these symptoms, particularly when initiating a new antidepressant treatment or adjusting the dosage.