fluvoxamine (Luvox)

Meet with a licensed provider online to explore if an antidepressant medication like fluvoxamine (Luvox) may be right for you.

Treatment for:
OCD

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What is an SSRI?

A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) is a class of medication commonly used to treat mental health conditions like anxiety, depression, OCD, and PTSD.

How does a SSRI work?

SSRIs increase the availability of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a naturally-occurring brain chemical that supports the regulation of mood and memory.

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How prescribing works

  • 1

    Find a provider who meets your needs

    Browse our providers online or call our scheduling team for matching assistance — find a provider who accepts your insurance and meets your needs, whether that’s a clinical specialty or a shared life experience. Choose a date and time that works for you and how you’d prefer to pay (using insurance or self-pay).

  • 2

    Meet 1:1 to begin treatment

    Meet online with your provider to begin treatment. At your first session, share any symptoms or struggles you’re experiencing along with your goals. Together, you and your provider will discuss if medication may be a good next step. Your provider may write you a prescription to be filled at your local pharmacy.

  • 3

    Attend sessions and start feeling better

    Once your treatment plan is created, your provider will regularly check in and encourage feedback to ensure any medication you may be prescribed is effective for you.

FAQs

What is fluvoxamine (Luvox) used to treat?

Fluvoxamine (Luvox) is approved to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that works by increasing serotonin levels in the brain.

How is fluvoxamine (Luvox) different from other ssris?

Fluvoxamine is an older SSRI medication. It works similarly to other SSRIs; however, it may cause more bothersome side effects than other SSRI medications, such as sedation, nausea and vomiting. If you have other questions about how fluvoxamine differs from other SSRI medications, talk with your provider.

Does fluvoxamine (Luvox) cause weight gain or loss?

Yes, weight changes are possible as a result of taking fluvoxamine. Weight gain is not a common side effect of fluvoxamine reported by people taking the medication. However, fluvoxamine can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, and if the diarrhea or nausea/vomiting is serious, it can cause some weight loss. If you're concerned about weight changes with fluvoxamine treatment, talk with your provider.

How long does fluvoxamine (Luvox) take to work?

While fluvoxamine starts to work after you take a dose, it may take several weeks to months of regularly taking it before you notice an improvement in your symptoms. Don't stop taking the medication on your own if you feel it's not working for you. Instead, contact with your provider to discuss your symptoms and your options.

What is fluvoxamine (Luvox) used to treat?

Fluvoxamine is used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). In some cases, your doctor may prescribe fluvoxamine off-label to treat other conditions, such as depression. An off-label use is when a medication is used for a purpose other than its approved use. If you have other questions about the uses of fluvoxamine, talk with your provider to learn more.

Does fluvoxamine (Luvox) make you sleepy?

Yes, sleepiness is a common side effect of fluvoxamine. However, in some people, the medication can also cause trouble sleeping. You may experience changes in your sleep pattern when you first start taking fluvoxamine. Until you know how the medication affects you, don't drive or perform tasks that require alertness. Talk with your provider if the sleepiness is bothersome and doesn't go away.

Can I take fluvoxamine (Luvox) in the morning?

Yes, you may be able to take fluvoxamine in the morning. However, the medication can cause sleepiness, which can interfere with daily activities. Your provider may suggest taking it in the evening if you experience sleepiness due to the medication. Conversely, if you experience trouble sleeping with fluvoxamine treatment, they may suggest taking it in the morning instead. The time of day you take the medication depends on your response to the medication.

Can I get a prescription online?

You can meet online with a licensed provider at Thriveworks — if it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe you medication for the treatment of a diagnosed mental health condition. Your Thriveworks provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Can I use my health insurance for online prescriptions and refills?

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for our online psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication prescribed to you by your Thriveworks provider, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your insurance provider to confirm your medical and prescription coverage information.

How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?

Schedule an online appointment with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After meeting with you and discussing your symptoms and treatment plan, your provider may recommend a prescription medication and/or additional services to help you reach your goals.

This information has been reviewed for accuracy and approved by our licensed psychiatric team. Published December 10, 2024

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Our psychiatry services are done completely online, so you can schedule with any psychiatric provider in your state.

Dr. Scott Gordon

Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.

Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer

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