Luvox (or fluvoxamine) is an antidepressant found in a set of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is believed to work by altering an imbalance of chemicals in the brain that leads to symptoms of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). To that end, Luvox is indicated for the treatment of social anxiety disorder (social phobia) and obsessive-compulsive disorders that involve recurring thoughts or actions.
Allergic Reaction Requires Medical Attention
The most immediate and dangerous potential side effect of most medications is an allergic reaction—the patient breaks out in a skin rash or hives; he or she has difficulty breathing; his or her face, lips, tongue, or throat swells up—in this case, emergency medical attention is necessary.
Serious Side Effects of Luvox
Like all SSRIs, Luvox has a significant set of side effects. Each patient's experience will vary; one patient may experience many symptoms, while another will experience none. Below are some of the reported serious side effects seen in patients taking Luvox.
- Seizures
- Weight or appetite changes
- Easy bruising or unusual bleeding
- Racing thoughts
- Agitation, hallucinations, fever, fast heart rate, overactive reflexes, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of coordination, fainting
- Very stiff (rigid) muscles, high fever, sweating, confusion, fast/uneven heartbeats, tremors
- Headache, difficulty concentrating, cognitive problems, weakness, feeling unsteady, fainting, shallow breathing or breathing that stops altogether
Less Serious Side Effects of Luvox
Below are some of the less serious and more common side effects reported in patients taking Luvox.
- Decreased sex drive, including abnormal ejaculation or problems having an orgasm
- Nausea, upset stomach
- Loss of appetite
- Dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, yawning
- Increased sweating
- Insomnia
- Sore throat
- Muscle aches
Luvox can also cause severe mood changes, hyperactivity, suicidal thoughts, as well as feelings of agitation and hostility.
Patients are encouraged to report all side effects to their doctors, regardless of severity.
