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 Fluvoxamine.
Bleeding: Fluvoxamine, like other SSRI medications, may cause an increased risk of bleeding, particularly if you are taking acetylsalicylic acid (Asa) or other medications that affect how the Blood Clots. If you notice any signs of bleeding, such as frequent nosebleeds, unexplained bruising, or black and tarry stools, notify your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will order routine blood tests to make sure potential problems are caught early.
Bones: Fluvoxamine, like other SSRI medications, may increase the risk of bone fracture, especially if you are a senior or have Osteoporosis or other major risk factors for breaking a bone. Take extra care to avoid falls, especially if you get dizzy or have Low Blood Pressure. Your doctor may monitor your bones while you are taking Fluvoxamine.
Change in blood sugar levels: Changes in blood sugar levels have been reported in the early stages of treatment in people taking fluvoxamine, whether or not they have been diagnosed with Diabetes. People with diabetes may find it necessary to monitor their blood sugar more frequently while using Fluvoxamine.
If you have diabetes or are at risk for developing diabetes, discuss with your doctor how Fluvoxamine may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Fluvoxamine, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Drowsiness/reduced alertness: Some people who take fluvoxamine may become drowsy. Avoid activities that require complete mental alertness, judgment, and physical coordination (such as driving a car or performing hazardous tasks) until you determine how fluvoxamine affects you.
Glaucoma: Fluvoxamine may cause the symptoms of glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye) to become worse. If you have glaucoma, discuss with your doctor how Fluvoxamine may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Fluvoxamine, and whether any special monitoring is needed. Report any changes in vision to your doctor as soon as possible while you are taking Fluvoxamine.
Seizures: There have been occasional reports of seizures occurring with fluvoxamine. If you have a history of Epilepsy or medical conditions that increase the risk of seizures, discuss with your doctor how Fluvoxamine may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Fluvoxamine, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Serotonin Syndrome or Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome: Severe reactions are possible when fluvoxamine is combined with other medications that act on serotonin, such as tricyclic antidepressants and certain medications used to treat migraines. These combinations must be avoided. Symptoms of a reaction may include muscle rigidity and spasms, difficulty moving, changes in mental state including delirium and agitation. Coma and death are possible.
If you are taking antidepressants, discuss with your doctor how Fluvoxamine may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Fluvoxamine, and whether any special monitoring is needed.
Stopping the medication: Stopping Fluvoxamine suddenly may lead to side effects such as dizziness; abnormal dreams; confusion; burning, prickling, or tingling skin; difficulty concentrating; fatigue; anxiety or agitation; shaking; nausea or vomiting; or sweating. If you are thinking of stopping the medication, check with your doctor first.
Suicidal or agitated behaviour: Adults and children taking Fluvoxamine 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 the person starts taking Fluvoxamine. If you experience these side effects or notice them in a family member who is taking Fluvoxamine, contact your doctor immediately. You should be closely monitored by your doctor for emotional and behaviour changes while taking Fluvoxamine.
Pregnancy: It has been reported that babies born to women who took medications of this kind during the last trimester of their pregnancy may experience adverse effects (such as breathing problems, seizures, trouble feeding, jitteriness, irritability, and constant crying). Fluvoxamine should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Fluvoxamine, contact your doctor immediately.
Breast-feeding: Fluvoxamine 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 efficacy of Fluvoxamine have not been established for children and adolescents under 18 years of age. The use of Fluvoxamine by people in this age group may cause behavioural and emotional changes, such as suicidal thoughts and behaviour.
