Luvox - Comprehensive Usage Guide: instructions, indications, composition, side effects

• Active Ingredient: Fluvoxamine maleate
• Excipients: May include lactose monohydrate, maize starch, hydroxypropyl cellulose, magnesium stearate, hypromellose, macrogol 400, titanium dioxide (E171), and other inactive ingredients depending on the formulation.

• Tablets: Available in various strengths, including 50 mg and 100 mg tablets.

Luvox belongs to the pharmacological group of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) (ATC code: N06AB08).

• Pharmacodynamics: Fluvoxamine selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin at the presynaptic membrane, leading to increased serotonergic activity in the central nervous system.
• Pharmacokinetics: Following oral administration, fluvoxamine is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract, with peak plasma concentrations reached within 4 to 8 hours. It undergoes extensive hepatic metabolism and has a half-life of approximately 15 hours.

Luvox is indicated for the treatment of:

• Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
• Major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Social anxiety disorder (SAD)

Luvox is contraindicated in individuals with:

• Hypersensitivity to fluvoxamine or any component of the formulation
• Concomitant use of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) or within 14 days of discontinuing MAOI therapy

Fluvoxamine may interact with:

• MAOIs, SSRIs, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), tricyclic antidepressants, and other serotonergic drugs, increasing the risk of serotonin syndrome
• Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes, potentially altering their plasma concentrations

• Luvox tablets should be taken orally once daily, preferably in the evening, with or without food.
• Dosage adjustments may be necessary in elderly patients and those with hepatic or renal impairment.
• The therapeutic effects of Luvox may take several weeks to manifest fully, and the treatment should be continued as directed by a healthcare provider.

• Luvox should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester, and only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
• Breastfeeding is not recommended during Luvox treatment due to the lack of data on its excretion in human breast milk.

• The recommended starting dose for OCD and MDD is 50 mg/day, which may be increased gradually under medical supervision.
• For SAD, the initial dose is typically 25 mg/day for one week, followed by 50 mg/day thereafter.
• The maximum daily dose should not exceed 300 mg/day.

In case of overdose, supportive measures should be initiated, and medical attention should be sought immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, drowsiness, and serotonin syndrome.

Common side effects of Luvox may include:

• Nausea, diarrhea, constipation
• Insomnia, drowsiness
• Headache, dizziness
• Sexual dysfunction
• Weight changes

Luvox tablets should be stored at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. The expiration date should be checked before use.

These comprehensive instructions provide essential information on the composition, pharmacological properties, indications, contraindications, interactions, administration, side effects, and storage of Luvox, aiding healthcare professionals and patients in safe and effective medication use. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.