Luvox® (Fluvoxamine) Tablets for Obsessive‑Compulsive Disorder

What Luvox® Is and How It Works

Luvox® is a prescription selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) used to treat obsessive‑compulsive disorder (OCD) in adults and in pediatric patients when prescribed. Many patients know Luvox medication by its generic name, fluvoxamine maleate. The tablets are typically taken once daily at bedtime, or divided twice daily at higher doses.

SSRIs increase serotonin levels by blocking its reuptake in the brain. For OCD, this helps reduce intrusive thoughts and repetitive behaviors and may improve daily functioning. Immediate‑release Luvox tablets come in several strengths, which supports gradual titration.

CanadianInsulin is a prescription referral service. Prescriptions are verified with your clinic, and orders are filled by licensed Canadian pharmacies. We work with vetted partner pharmacies to supply authentic brand medications and generics, with a broad selection and value‑focused pricing.

Fluvoxamine is the generic medicine for Luvox. If your prescriber authorizes substitution, you can also review the generic option here: Fluvoxamine.

Dosage and Usage

• Adults with OCD: typical initiation is 50 mg at bedtime. Increase by 50 mg every 4–7 days as tolerated. Maximum 300 mg per day.
• Adolescents and children: prescribers often start at 25 mg daily and titrate slowly. Usual maximum is 200 mg/day (8–11 years) and up to 300 mg/day (12–17 years).
• Divide higher doses: when the daily dose exceeds 100 mg, many patients take split doses, with the larger portion at bedtime.
• Take with or without food: choose a consistent routine to improve tolerance.
• Swallow tablets whole: do not crush or chew unless directed by your prescriber.
• Missed dose: if it is close to the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double.
• Discontinuation: taper gradually over weeks to reduce discontinuation symptoms (dizziness, irritability, insomnia, electric‑shock sensations).
• Drug interactions: do not use with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). Allow at least 14 days between MAOIs and Luvox. Avoid with tizanidine, thioridazine, pimozide, ramelteon, and alosetron.
• Serotonergic combinations: increased serotonin syndrome risk with triptans, tramadol, linezolid, methylene blue, St. John’s wort, and other SSRIs/SNRIs.
• Hepatic impairment and elderly: lower starting doses and slower titration are commonly used.

• Store at 20–25°C (68–77°F). Keep the bottle tightly closed and dry.
• Protect from moisture and heat. Do not store in a bathroom.
• For travel, keep your medicine in original labeled packaging in your carry‑on.
• Carry a copy of your prescription. Pack enough tablets for your trip plus a buffer.
• Do not leave tablets in a hot car or in direct sunlight.
• Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Benefits and Savings

Luvox can reduce obsessions and compulsions, help control rituals, and improve quality of life for people living with OCD. The dose range allows slow, patient‑centered titration. Once‑daily bedtime dosing is convenient for many patients, and a generic alternative (fluvoxamine) is available when appropriate.

Many customers save 60–80% vs typical U.S. prices. See our promotions page for current offers, including any luvox coupons if available.

Side Effects and Safety

• Nausea, upset stomach, or diarrhea
• Drowsiness or insomnia
• Headache or dizziness
• Sweating or tremor
• Dry mouth or constipation
• Decreased appetite
• Sexual dysfunction (decreased libido, delayed ejaculation)

Serious risks can include serotonin syndrome, suicidal thoughts and behaviors (especially in children, adolescents, and young adults), manic switch in bipolar disorder, seizures, low sodium (SIADH), angle‑closure glaucoma, and bleeding risk when combined with NSAIDs, aspirin, or anticoagulants. Do not combine with MAOIs. Strong CYP1A2 interactions are notable (for example with tizanidine, theophylline, clozapine, caffeine, and warfarin); prescribers often adjust therapy and monitor closely.

Onset Time

Some people notice improved sleep or reduced anxiety within 1–2 weeks. Meaningful reductions in obsessions and compulsions often appear after dose titration, typically between 4 and 12 weeks. Full effect may require sustained treatment at an effective dose, guided by the prescriber’s plan.

Compare With Alternatives

Several SSRIs are used for OCD and related conditions. Sertraline (Zoloft®) is another SSRI option with broad clinical use and flexible dosing. Escitalopram (Cipralex®) is valued for tolerability and once‑daily dosing. Individual response varies, and prescribers adjust choices based on prior trials, side‑effect profiles, and interactions.

Brand Luvox and its generic, Fluvoxamine, contain the same active ingredient. Generic products help lower costs while maintaining bioequivalence standards.

Combination Therapy

• Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), including exposure and response prevention, often complements SSRI therapy.
• Buspirone or benzodiazepines may be used short‑term for anxiety; prescribers weigh sedation and dependence risks.
• Bupropion or certain atypical antipsychotics may be used as augmentation in select cases.
• When combining serotonergic agents, clinicians monitor for serotonin syndrome and may adjust doses.
• Antiplatelets/anticoagulants with SSRIs can increase bleeding risk; monitoring and dose adjustments may be considered.

Patient Suitability and Cost‑Saving Tips

Luvox may be appropriate for adults and pediatric patients diagnosed with OCD. People with bipolar disorder, a history of serotonin syndrome, uncontrolled seizures, narrow‑angle glaucoma, or severe liver disease may not be good candidates. Those taking MAOIs, tizanidine, thioridazine, pimozide, ramelteon, or alosetron should avoid fluvoxamine.

Pregnancy and lactation require individualized risk‑benefit discussions. Elderly patients and those with hepatic impairment often start at lower doses. Alcohol can worsen drowsiness and is generally avoided.

To reduce costs, consider the generic fluvoxamine when appropriate, request multi‑month supplies if your prescription allows, and group items in one shipment. Set simple reorder reminders so refills arrive on time. CanadianInsulin ships with prompt, express, cold‑chain handling.

Authoritative Sources

FDA Prescribing Information for fluvoxamine (Luvox CR capsule label; SSRI class details)

Health Canada Drug Product Database: Fluvoxamine Maleate

Manufacturer medication guide and safety information

Order Luvox® from CanadianInsulin: add to cart, upload your prescription, and we ship with prompt, express, cold‑chain handling.

This page is educational and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified clinician for diagnosis and treatment decisions.