Brand name:

Fluvoxamine maleate

Why is Fluvoxamine maleate prescribed?

Fluvoxamine is prescribed for obsessive-compulsive disorder. An obsession is marked by continual, unwanted thoughts that prevent proper functioning in everyday living. Compulsive behavior is typified by ritualistic actions such as repetitious washing, repeating certain phrases, completing steps in a process over and over, counting and recounting, checking and rechecking to make sure that something has not been forgotten, excessive neatness, and hoarding of useless items.

Fluvoxamine is thought to work by increasing levels of serotonin, a brain chemical associated with mood and thinking. It belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which also includes antidepressants such as fluoxetine and paroxetine.

Most important fact about Fluvoxamine maleate

Before starting therapy with fluvoxamine, be sure your doctor knows what medications you are taking—both prescription and over-the-counter—since combining fluvoxamine with certain drugs may cause serious or even life-threatening effects. You should never take fluvoxamine with thioridazine or pimozide. You should also avoid taking fluvoxamine within 14 days of taking any antidepressant drug classified as an MAO inhibitor, including phenelzine and tranylcypromine.

How should you take Fluvoxamine maleate?

Take this medication only as directed by your doctor.

Fluvoxamine may be taken with or without food.

• If you miss a dose...
  If you are taking 1 dose a day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. If you are taking 2 doses a day, take the missed dose as soon as possible, then go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

• Storage instructions...
  Store at room temperature and protect from humidity.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor immediately. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking fluvoxamine.

• Side effects may include:
  Abnormal ejaculation, agitation, anxiety, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, headache, indigestion, insomnia, nausea, nervousness, sleepiness, sweating, tremor, vomiting, weakness, weight loss

Why should Fluvoxamine maleate not be prescribed?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to fluvoxamine or similar drugs, such as Prozac and Zoloft, do not take this medication. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

Never combine fluvoxamine with thioridazine or pimozide, or take it within 14 days of taking an MAO inhibitor such as phenelzine and tranylcypromine. (See "Most important fact about this drug.")

Special warnings about Fluvoxamine maleate

In clinical studies, SSRI antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior in children and adolescents with depression and other psychiatric disorders. Anyone considering the use of fluvoxamine or any other antidepressant in a child or adolescent must balance this risk with the clinical need. Fluvoxamine must be used with caution in children with depression. Fluvoxamine is only approved for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder in children 8 years and older.

Additionally, the progression of major depression is associated with a worsening of symptoms and/or the emergence of suicidal thinking or behavior in both adults and children, whether or not they are taking antidepressants. Individuals being treated with fluvoxamine and their caregivers should watch for any change in symptoms or any new symptoms that appear suddenly—especially agitation, anxiety, hostility, panic, restlessness, extreme hyperactivity, and suicidal thinking or behavior—and report them to the doctor immediately. Be especially observant at the beginning of treatment or whenever there is a change in dose.

You should discuss all your medical problems with your doctor before starting therapy with fluvoxamine, as certain physical conditions or diseases may affect your reaction to it.

If you suffer from seizures, use this medication cautiously. If you experience a seizure while taking fluvoxamine, stop taking the drug and call your doctor immediately.

If you have a history of mania (excessively energetic, out-of-control behavior), use this medication cautiously.

If you have liver disease, your doctor will adjust the dosage.

Fluvoxamine may cause you to become drowsy or less alert and may affect your judgment. Therefore, avoid driving, operating dangerous machinery, or participating in any hazardous activity that requires full mental alertness until you know your reaction to this medication.

Fluvoxamine can also deplete the body's supply of salt, especially in older adults and people who take diuretics or suffer from dehydration. Under these conditions, your doctor will check your salt levels regularly.

If you develop a rash or hives, or any other allergic-type reaction, notify your physician immediately.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Fluvoxamine maleate

Do not drink alcohol while taking this medication. If you smoke, be sure to tell your doctor before starting fluvoxamine therapy, as your dosage may need adjustment.

If fluvoxamine is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining fluvoxamine with the following: