Med Review: Fluvoxamine
The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
Today we will review fluvoxamine & we will do so from the perspective of what is good, what is bad and what is ugly about this drug.
The Good:
Luvox (fluvoxamine) is an effective medication used to treat OCD, depression, and anxiety disorders. Here are some potential benefits of Luvox:
FDA-approved: Luvox has been approved by the FDA for the treatment of OCD in adults and children aged eight and above. It has also been shown to be effective in treating depression and anxiety disorders.
Selective action: Luvox is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which means it works by specifically targeting the serotonin neurotransmitter in the brain. This can help alleviate symptoms of OCD, depression, and anxiety.
No weight gain: Luvox has been shown to have a low incidence of weight gain compared to other antidepressants.
The Bad:
Despite its potential benefits, Luvox may also have some drawbacks, including:
Side effects: Like all medications, Luvox can cause side effects such as nausea, headache, drowsiness, and sexual dysfunction.
Interactions: Luvox can interact with other medications, including some antidepressants and blood thinners, which can increase the risk of bleeding.
Withdrawal: Stopping Luvox abruptly can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, headache, and mood changes.
The Ugly:
In rare cases, Luvox can cause serious side effects, including:
Suicidal thoughts or behaviors: Luvox, like other antidepressants, may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults.
Serotonin syndrome: Luvox can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition characterized by high levels of serotonin in the brain.
Liver damage: Luvox can cause liver damage, although this is rare.
Overall, Luvox can be an effective medication for treating OCD, depression, and anxiety disorders. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects and risks associated with the medication. Luvox should only be taken under the supervision of a healthcare provider and should not be stopped abruptly without consulting a doctor.
DISCLAIMER
This is not Medical Advice and while the writer believes what he has shared, substack dot com does not equate to strong evidence. Please do not treat patients based on what is read in this post, these are opinions of an internet stranger. Instead use these posts as a starting point for furthering your own study & education.