Luvox
Luvox (generic name: Fluvoxamine) is a drug that is used for treating several psychiatric disorders. It is in the class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), a class that also includes fluoxetine (Prozac), sertraline (Zoloft), and paroxetine (Paxil). Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors affect neurotransmitters (chemicals) that nerves in the brain use to communicate with each other. Many experts believe that an imbalance in these neurotransmitters is the cause of depression and other psychiatric disorders. Fluvoxamine works by inhibiting the uptake of serotonin (a neurotransmitter) by nerve cells. Therefore, there is more serotonin available to stimulate other nerves in the brain. Fluvoxamine was approved by the FDA for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder in December, 1994.
Luvox side effects
Side effects of all SSRIs include anxiety, nervousness, sweating, nausea, decreased appetite, constipation, diarrhea, dry mouth, somnolence (sleepiness), dizziness, insomnia, and sexual disfunction.
Withdrawal of an SSRI may result in withdrawal symptoms. The most common symptoms of withdrawal are dizziness, tiredness, tingling of the extremities, nausea, vivid dreams, irritability, and poor mood. Other symptoms include visual disturbances and headaches. Withdrawal reactions have been reported after an average of 12 to 36 weeks of treatment, but after as few as 5 weeks. Although most authorities recommend treatment discontinuation by gradually reducing the dose, symptoms may still occur. Symptoms generally appear within a few days of discontinuing medication and persist for an average of 12 days (up to 21 days). They are relieved within 24 hours by re-administering the medication that was discontinued.
Antidepressants may increase the risk of suicide in children and adolescents. There are concerns that antidepressants may also induce suicides in adults. Patients with major depression may experience worsening of depression or suicidal thoughts regardless of whether or not they are treated. Therefore, patients started on antidepressants should be closely observed for signs of worsening suicidal thinking or changes in behavior.