Fluvoxamine belongs to the class of medications called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It helps to reduce anxiety and unpleasant thoughts associated with OCD.

Serotonin reuptake inhibitors work by increasing the amount of a neurotransmitter (a chemical found in the brain) called serotonin. Although you may start feeling better within a few weeks of treatment, the full effects of the medication may not be evident until several weeks of treatment have passed.

Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all of the conditions discussed here. If you are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

Do not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their doctor has not prescribed it.

The recommended adult dose of fluvoxamine ranges from 50 mg to 300 mg daily taken at bedtime or in 2 divided doses. Doses more than 100 mg should be divided into 2 doses. A low dose of fluvoxamine (e.g., 50 mg) is usually used to start treatment, with increases in dose every few days as tolerated until the best dose is reached. This medication may be taken with or without food.

Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

It is important that this medication be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you are not sure what to do after missing a dose, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Fluvoxamine should not be taken by anyone who:

• is allergic to fluvoxamine or to any ingredients of the medication
• is also taking thioridazine, pimozide, alosetron, tizanidine, cisapride, terfenadine, or astemizole
• has taken an MAO inhibitor (e.g., tranylcypromine, selegiline) within the last 14 days

A side effect is an unwanted response to a medication when it is taken in normal doses. A side effect may be mild or severe, temporary or permanent, but does not occur in everyone. The following side effects have been reported by at least 1% of people taking this medication. Many of these side effects can be managed, and some may go away over time. If you develop any of these side effects (or any other side effects not listed here) or they change in intensity, speak to your doctor or pharmacist for advice on managing them and on the risks and benefits of the medication.

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

Bleeding: This medication may cause abnormal bleeding in people who are taking fluvoxamine in addition to aspirin, NSAIDs, or other medications that affect blood clotting.

Drowsiness/reduced alertness: Sedation may occur for some people who take fluvoxamine. Therefore, take appropriate caution with activities that require complete mental alertness, judgment, and physical coordination (such as driving a car or performing hazardous tasks) until you establish that fluvoxamine does not affect you in this way.

Liver disease: People with reduced liver function should use fluvoxamine with caution and take a lower-than-usual dose as prescribed by their doctor.

Mania: Fluvoxamine may cause activation of mania and should therefore be used with caution by people with a history of mania or bipolar disorder.

Neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS): Neuroleptic malignant syndrome has been reported on reduction or withdrawal of fluvoxamine. It is an uncommon but life-threatening syndrome characterized by fever, muscle stiffness, involuntary movements, altered consciousness, increased heart rate and breathing rate, and fluctuating blood pressure.

Seizures: People with a history of seizures should use fluvoxamine with caution. Anyone who develops seizures should stop taking the medication and contact their doctor.

Stopping the medication: Stopping this medication suddenly may lead to side effects. If you are thinking of stopping the medication, check with your doctor first.

Suicidal or agitated behavior: Adults and children taking this medication may feel agitated (restless, anxious, aggressive, emotional, and feeling not like themselves), or they may want to hurt themselves or others. These symptoms may occur within several weeks after people start taking this medication. If you experience any emotional or behavioral changes, talk to your doctor immediately.

Pregnancy: This medication should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.

Breast-feeding: This medication passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking fluvoxamine, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of this medication have not been established for children under 8 years of age.