home > drugs a-z list > luvox cr (fluvoxamine maleate extended-release capsules) drug center > luvox cr (fluvoxamine maleate extended-release capsules) drug - consumer uses and warnings

IMPORTANT: HOW TO USE THIS INFORMATION: This is a summary and does NOT have all possible information about this product. This information does not assure that this product is safe, effective, or appropriate for you. This information is not individual medical advice and does not substitute for the advice of your health care professional. Always ask your health care professional for complete information about this product and your specific health needs.

FLUVOXAMINE EXTENDED-RELEASE - ORAL

(flew-VOX-uh-meen)

COMMON BRAND NAME(S): Luvox

WARNING: Antidepressant medications are used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression and other mental/mood disorders. These medications can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other important benefits. However, studies have shown that a small number of people (especially people younger than 25) who take antidepressants for any condition may experience worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts. Therefore, it is very important to talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits of antidepressant medication (especially for people younger than 25), even if treatment is not for a mental/mood condition.

Tell the doctor immediately if you notice worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech). Be especially watchful for these symptoms when a new antidepressant is started or when the dose is changed.

USES: Fluvoxamine is used to treat social anxiety disorder (social phobia) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It may decrease anxiety/unreasonable fears, persistent/troubling thoughts (obsessions), and unwanted urges that keep returning (compulsions such as hand-washing, counting, checking). It may also decrease the number and severity of panic attacks. Fluvoxamine belongs to a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). This medication works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural chemicals (neurotransmitters such as serotonin) in the brain.

OTHER USES: This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional.

This medication may also be used to treat depression and a certain eating disorder (bulimia).

HOW TO USE: Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start using fluvoxamine and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with or without food, usually once daily at bedtime or as directed by your doctor.

Swallow the capsules whole. Do not crush or chew the capsules. Doing so can destroy the long action of the drug and may increase side effects.

Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Do not take more than 300 milligrams a day. To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may direct you to start taking a low dose and gradually increase your dose.

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while being treated with this medication unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Grapefruit can increase the amount of certain medications in your bloodstream. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Do not increase your dose or take this medication more often than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster, and the risk of serious side effects may be increased.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.

It is important to continue taking this medication as prescribed even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. Also, you may experience symptoms such as mood swings, headache, tiredness, sleep changes, and brief feelings similar to electric shock. To prevent these symptoms while you are stopping treatment with this drug, your doctor may reduce your dose gradually. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Report any new or worsening symptoms immediately.

It may take 3 weeks or longer before this drug takes effect. Tell your doctor if your condition persists or worsens.