From the FDA Drug Label
Although the efficacy of Fluvoxamine Maleate Tablets beyond 10 weeks of dosing for OCD has not been documented in controlled trials, OCD is a chronic condition, and it is reasonable to consider continuation for a responding patient Dosage adjustments should be made to maintain the patient on the lowest effective dosage, and patients should be periodically reassessed to determine the need for continued treatment If intolerable symptoms occur following a decrease in the dose or upon discontinuation of treatment, then resuming the previously prescribed dose may be considered.
The patient should continue taking fluvoxamine as long as they are experiencing a therapeutic benefit and the benefits outweigh the risks of side effects. Dosage adjustments should be made to maintain the patient on the lowest effective dosage. Patients should be periodically reassessed to determine the need for continued treatment. If intolerable symptoms occur, the previously prescribed dose may be resumed, and then decreased at a more gradual rate 1.
From the Research
If you're experiencing side effects from fluvoxamine, you should continue taking the medication for at least 6-8 weeks to allow your body to adjust, as many side effects are temporary and improve over time 2. When considering the management of side effects associated with fluvoxamine, it's essential to weigh the benefits of the medication against the discomfort caused by side effects.
- Common side effects like nausea, headache, insomnia, or sexual dysfunction often diminish over time as the body adjusts to the medication.
- However, if you experience severe side effects such as suicidal thoughts, severe agitation, allergic reactions, or serotonin syndrome, seek immediate medical attention.
- Never stop taking fluvoxamine abruptly as this can cause withdrawal symptoms; your doctor may recommend gradually tapering the dose if discontinuation is necessary. The decision to continue fluvoxamine despite side effects involves considering the individual's response to the medication and the severity of their condition, as well as the potential benefits of maintaining therapeutic levels of the medication, as supported by studies such as 3 which highlights the importance of careful management of fluvoxamine therapy.
- Your doctor might adjust your dosage, change the timing of your dose, or recommend supportive treatments to manage side effects while maintaining the therapeutic benefits of the medication. It's also important to consider the comparative effectiveness of fluvoxamine with other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), as discussed in studies like 4 and 5, which provide insights into the relative benefits and risks of different treatment options.