Generic Luvox

Luvox is generically prescribed as fluvoxamine and is commonly prescribed to treat the symptoms of obsessive compulsive disorders. Luvox is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor and should not be taken within at least 14 days of taking an MAO inhibitor as this may lead to fatal drug interactions.

Some patients experience a sensitivity that creates a worsening of symptoms and produces agitation, aggression, irritability, trouble sleeping, severe mood changes, and thoughts of self harm or suicide. This is most common in patients under the age of 21, although it can happen to any patient who is either just starting the medication (in the first 12 weeks) or in patients who have taken this medication for longer than one year.

The prescribing physician needs to assess a very thorough medical history to avoid potential health risks. A patient with a medical history which includes a seizure disorder, epilepsy, liver disease, bipolar disorder, drug abuse, suicidal thoughts or behavior may not be able to take this medication or may require continuous monitoring while undergoing drug therapy with Luvox.

There is a potential for severe side effects when taking Luvox, and any serious side effect or allergic reaction will require immediate emergency medical attention. Allergic reactions include symptoms such as facial swelling, swelling of the lips, tongue, throat, or mouth, difficulty breathing, and hives. Other serious side effects demanding emergency medical care include shivering, tremors, muscle stiffness, twitching, convulsions or seizures, loss of balance, loss of coordination, unusual thoughts, strange behaviors, agitation, confusion, sweating, or a rapid heart rate.

It is not uncommon for patients to experience less serious side effects which can be uncomfortable but not life threatening. Patients should be encouraged to report these side effects, as often lowering the dose of Luvox can significantly reduce the irritation these side effects can contribute. Less serious side effects include symptoms such as an inability to sit still, nervousness, restlessness, insomnia, weakness, drowsiness, increased urination, weight gain, weight loss, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, gas, constipation, upset stomach, decreased sex drive, impotence, inability or difficulty having an orgasm, dry mouth, and an unpleasant taste in the mouth.

Luvox should be taken as it has been prescribed and a regular schedule should be maintained. If the dosing gets off schedule, a missed dose can be taken as it is remembered. If it is nearing time for the next regular dose, then the missed dose should skipped and the patient should resume the schedule at the next dose. Double dosing or taking too much medication can lead to an overdose which would require immediate medical intervention. Overdosing can cause rapid heart rate, blurry vision, nausea, vomiting, loss of coordination, difficulty breathing, drowsiness, fainting, coma, or death.

A risk of drug interactions exists when taking Luvox, and it is vital that the prescribing physician is aware of all medications the patient is taking prior to prescribing Luvox. Patients should always contact the prescribing physician before taking any new medications, including over the counter medicines or herbal supplements. Taking an MAOI within 14 days of Luvox may cause death. Other medications such as pimozide, cisapride, astemizole, terfenadine, thioridazine, clozapine, lithium, propranolol, carbamazapine, warfarin, tryptophan, mexiletine, theophylline, tacrine, methadone, almotriptan, benzodiazepine, or any additional antidepressants may cause serious health problems or even the possibility of death.