Fluvoxamine

Expert Advice

Dosage Forms Available

• Fluvoxamine is available in tablet form for oral administration.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Fluvoxamine can be used in adults and children. Girls aged 8 to 11 years may need lower doses than boys and adolescents.

Contraindications

• Fluvoxamine is contraindicated in patients who are currently taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), thioridazine, pimozide, alosetron, and tizanidine due to possible dangerous medicine interactions. Patients having a known allergy to any component of fluvoxamine should also avoid this medication.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Fluvoxamine may interact with antipsychotics (e.g., clozapine), benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam), and migraine medications (e.g., sumatriptan, methadone).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Overdose of Fluvoxamine could lead to serious side effects like fever, excessive sweating, tremors, rapid heart rate or low blood pressure. If an overdose is suspected, seek immediate medical attention.

• If a dose of fluvoxamine is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered. However, if the time for the next dose is near, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular dosing schedule. Doubling up on doses should be avoided.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• Drinking plenty of water may help manage some side effects like dry mouth and constipation.

• Rest and sleep may help manage side effects like drowsiness and weakness.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Fluvoxamine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you feel dizzy or sleepy after taking this medication, it is advised to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• The use of fluvoxamine during pregnancy should be discussed with a doctor, as it may cause withdrawal symptoms in the newborn if used during pregnancy. It is not recommended during breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with a history of bipolar disorder, seizures, liver or kidney problems should exercise caution when taking Fluvoxamine. Elderly patients may also need to be more careful, as they may be more sensitive to its effects.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Monitor caffeine intake to avoid exacerbating anxiety or insomnia.

• Avoid grapefruit or its juice, as it can interfere with fluvoxamine metabolism.

• Monitor weight regularly, as fluvoxamine may affect appetite or weight.

Frequently asked questions

Terms & Conditions