Luvox (generic name: fluvoxamine; brand names include: Dumirox / Faverin / Fevarin / Floxyfral / Fluvohexal / Fluvoxin / Movox) belongs to a class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) that has proven in clinical trials to be both safe and effective with fewer side effects than other types of antidepressant medications.

Luvox is widely prescribed to treat major depression, and anxiety disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), obsessive-compulsive spectrum disorder, panic disorder, social anxiety disorder (social phobia), and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Luvox is also indicated for children and adolescents with OCD.

Luvox has weight-neutral profile (no significant weight gain or loss) and low incidence of sexual adverse events.

Luvox works by inhibiting the uptake of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, by nerve cells. Therefore, there is more serotonin available to stimulate other nerves in the brain. It is generally believed that an imbalance in neurotransmitters is the cause of depression and other psychiatric disorders.

This medication is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.

Recommendations

Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take Luvox exactly as directed.

Luvox comes as a tablet to take by mouth. It usually is taken either once daily at bedtime or twice daily, once in the morning and once at bedtime.

Take Luvox by mouth with or without food.

Taking Luvox at the same time each day will help you remember to take it.

Continue to take Luvox even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses. Do not suddenly stop taking Luvox without checking with your doctor. Your doctor probably will decrease your dose gradually.

If you miss a dose of Luvox, take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Store this medicine at room temperature, away from heat and light.

Precautions

Tell your doctor before using Luvox, if:

you are allergic to Luvox or any other medications;
you are taking alosetron, astemizole, cisapride, pimozide, terfenadine; tizanidine or thioridazine;
you are taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or have taken them within the last two weeks;
you have seizures, or heart, kidney, adrenal, or liver disease;
you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breast-feeding.

Ingredients

Active ingredient: fluvoxamine.