Fluvoxamine

Uses of Fluvoxamine

Fluvoxamine is commonly used to treat Social Anxiety Disorder, Depression, Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

How Fluvoxamine Works

Fluvoxamine is a Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor (SSRI) that inhibits serotonin reuptake in brain neurons. It is derived from aralkylketone.

Side Effects of Fluvoxamine

Headache, Tremor, Dry mouth, Nausea, Vomiting, Insomnia, Dizziness, Nervousness, Decrease libido, Urinary retention

Warnings

Kidney Use With Care

Fluvoxamine is excreted via urine and dosage adjustment may be needed in patients with renal impairment.

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Fluvoxamine. Taking Fluvoxamine with alcohol may potentiate the side effects of dizziness, nervousness, and difficulty concentrating.

Pregnancy Not Safe

There is a risk to fetal development having Pulmonary Hypertension based on previous epidemiological data. The use of Fluvoxamine has only indicated if the benefits outweigh the risk.

Driving Not advisable

It is not advisable to drive when taking Fluvoxamine due to its potential side effects such as headache and dizziness which can affect the ability to drive and concentrate.

Liver Use With Care

Fluvoxamine is metabolised extensively by the liver and dosage adjustment is advisable for patient with hepatic impairment.

Lactation Not Advisable

It is known that Fluvoxamine and its metabolite are excreted into the human breastmilk and it is not advisable to breastfeed when taking Fluvoxamine.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).