Introduction

Fluvoxamine maleate is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor used for the treatment of patients suffering from obsessive-compulsive disorders. An obsession means the continuous occurrence of unwanted thoughts which interfere in proper functioning of daily life. Compulsive behavior may include the repetition of steps again and again to ensure that nothing has been forgotten. Some times excessive neatness and hoarding of useless items result out of compulsive behavior.

How It Works

Fluvoxamine maleate is a white to off white, odorless, crystalline powder. It is sparingly soluble in water and freely soluble in ethanol and chloroform. It is insoluble in diethyl ether. It binds to 77% of human plasma proteins. It works by inhibiting neuronal reuptake of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin being a brain chemical associated with mood and thinking, helps to reduce the symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorders.

Indication

Luvox tablets are indicated for the treatment of patients who have developed symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorders. Studies have revealed that these tablets more effective in treating such patients.

Dosage

The normal dosage of Fluvoxamine Maleate for adults is 100-300 mg per day. But, initially the dosage should be 50 mg per day. There can be a significant change in 50 mg increment after 4-7 days. A dosage of more than 100mg per day should be split into two doses. But, at any cost, consumption of more than 300 mg of this drug is not advisable.

Pediatric populations (ages 8-17 years) can have 25 mg of Fluvoxamine Maleate as a starting dose. Subsequently it can be changed. The normal dosage in this case is 50 to 200 mg/day and should not exceed 200mg per day.

The dosage for the elderly person should be very low depending on their health conditions and retention power. Continuous health check-ups should be done.

Side Effects

The commonly observed side effects of Fluvoxamine Maleate are nausea, somnolence, insomnia, asthenia, nervousness, dyspepsia, abnormal ejaculation, sweating, anorexia, tremor, and vomiting. In some cases symptoms of agitation, depression, dysmenorrhea, flatulence, hyperkinesia, and rash have been found as its effect.

If any of the above symptoms persist, then consulting your doctor regarding this is advisable.

Precautions

Because there are chances of clinical worsening, suicidal thoughts, and unusual changes in behavior of the patients, so all patients who are being treated with Fluvoxamine Maleate for whatever indication should be monitored appropriately and observed closely.

Drug Interactions

Fluvoxamine Maleate should not be taken with MAO inhibitors. There are possibilities of Lithium enhancing the serotonergic effects of fluvoxamine, so the consumption of this combination either should be avoided or should be used cautiously after obtaining the instructions from a doctor physician.

Discontinuation of Treatment with Fluvoxamine

If even after being treated with Luvox tablets, the severe symptoms of insomnia, asthenia and somnolence persists with the patients suffering from obsessive compulsive disorders, then discontinuation of treatment with this drug is advisable.

Overdose

If you experience gastrointestinal complaints like nausea, vomiting and diarrhea somnolence and dizziness, then these may be an outcome of the overdose of the drug. You should immediately call for your doctor.

Storage

These Luvox tablets should be kept away from the reach of children and should be stored at15° to 30°C in tight containers. It should be kept away from heat, light and moisture.

Synonym

Venezuela: Luvox
United States: Luvox¤
United Kingdom: Faverin Fluvoxin
Thailand: Faverin Floxyfral
Switzerland: Flox-ex
Sweden: Fevarin
Spain: Dumirox
Singapore: Faverin
South Africa: Luvox
Russia: Fevarin (Феварин)
Portugal: Dumyrox
Norway: Fevarin
Netherlands: Fevarin
Mexico: Luvox
Malaysia: Luvox
Japan: Luvox Maveral Fevarin
Italy: Dumirox
Israel: Favoxil
Ireland: Faverin
India: Fluvoxin
Hungary: Fevarin
Hong Kong: Faverin Myroxine
Greece: Dumyrox Fluvoxadura Fluvohexal Fevarin
Germany: Desifluvoxamin¤
France: Floxyfral Fluvosol¤
Finland: Fevarin
Denmark: Fevarin
Czech Republic: Fevarin
Chile: Luvox
Canada: Luvox
Brazil: Luvox Floxyfral
Belgium: Dumirox¤ Floxyfral
Austria: Felixsan Voxam Movox Luvox
Australia: Faverin
Argentina: Luvox¤