Voxamin-100mg

Description

Voxamin-100mg is a medication whose active ingredient is Fluvoxamine Maleate. It belongs to a class of antidepressants known as Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs).

In Nepal, Fluvoxamine is available under various brand names, including Voxamin (often from Micro Labs Ltd. or Renata Limited in neighboring countries, but specific local manufacturers may vary) and Fluvoxin (from Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., available in Nepal).

Uses of Voxamin-100mg (Fluvoxamine):

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD): This is its primary and most common indication, helping to manage unwanted thoughts and repetitive behaviors.
• Depression: Used to treat major depressive disorder.
• Anxiety Disorders: Including:
  • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): Chronic, excessive worry.
  • Social Anxiety Disorder (SAD) / Social Phobia: Fear of social situations.
  • Panic Disorder: To reduce the frequency and intensity of panic attacks.
• Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Sometimes used for this condition.
• May also be used for phobias and eating disorders.

How it Works: Fluvoxamine works by increasing the level of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a key role in regulating mood, emotions, sleep, and appetite. By inhibiting its reuptake, Fluvoxamine makes more serotonin available, which helps to improve mood and reduce symptoms of anxiety and obsessive thoughts.

Dosage and Administration:

• Always take Voxamin-100mg exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• It can generally be taken with or without food. Your doctor might recommend taking it at night to help manage potential side effects like drowsiness.
• Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet; swallow it whole.
• Do not stop this medication suddenly. Abrupt discontinuation can lead to withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, sleep disturbances, agitation, anxiety, headaches, nausea, or tremors. Your doctor will guide you on how to gradually reduce the dose when it’s time to stop.
• It may take 2 to 3 weeks or even longer (up to 4 weeks or more for full effect) to notice significant improvement in symptoms. Continue taking it as prescribed even if you don’t feel better immediately.

Common Side Effects: Many side effects are mild and tend to improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication.

• Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation
• Headache
• Drowsiness/sleepiness or insomnia (difficulty sleeping)
• Dry mouth
• Increased sweating
• Tremors (shaking)
• Nervousness or anxiety
• Sexual dysfunction (e.g., decreased libido, delayed ejaculation, erectile dysfunction, difficulty reaching orgasm)
• Loss of appetite (can lead to weight loss in some, though weight gain has also been reported)

Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical attention if you experience these):

• Serotonin Syndrome: Symptoms include agitation, hallucinations, confusion, rapid heart rate, sweating, shivering, muscle stiffness or twitching, loss of coordination, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
• Suicidal Thoughts or Behavior: Especially in young adults (under 25) when starting treatment or changing dosage. Any new or worsening mood changes, depression, or thoughts of self-harm should be reported immediately.
• Increased Bleeding or Bruising: If you notice unusual bleeding or bruising, especially if you are taking other medications that affect clotting (like blood thinners or NSAIDs).
• Mania/Hypomania: Signs include a dramatic increase in energy, racing thoughts, significant trouble sleeping, reckless behavior, or extreme happiness/irritability.
• Seizures.
• Low Sodium Levels (Hyponatremia): Symptoms can include headache, confusion, weakness, or unsteadiness.
• Eye problems: Such as eye pain, blurred vision, or seeing halos around lights, especially if you have or are at risk of narrow-angle glaucoma.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Skin rash, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.

Important Warnings and Precautions:

• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption while taking Fluvoxamine, as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your doctor. It should generally be avoided during pregnancy unless clearly necessary, and it passes into breast milk, so it’s usually not recommended for breastfeeding mothers.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: This medicine can cause drowsiness, dizziness, or blurred vision. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Inform your doctor about any history of:
  • Epilepsy (seizures)
  • Diabetes (blood sugar levels may need monitoring)
  • Liver or kidney disease
  • Heart problems (e.g., irregular heart rhythms)
  • Glaucoma
  • Bipolar disorder or history of mania
  • Bleeding disorders
• Drug Interactions: Fluvoxamine can interact with many other medications, potentially leading to serious side effects. It should NEVER be taken with Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs). A washout period (typically 14 days) is required between stopping an MAOI and starting Fluvoxamine, and vice-versa. Other important interactions include:
  • Other antidepressants (SSRIs, TCAs, SNRIs)
  • Triptans (for migraines)
  • Tramadol
  • Warfarin (blood thinner)
  • Theophylline
  • Certain benzodiazepines (e.g., alprazolam, diazepam, midazolam)
  • Clozapine
  • Certain antihistamines (e.g., terfenadine, astemizole, though these are less commonly used now)
  • Pimozide, Cisapride (contraindicated)
  • St. John’s Wort (herbal supplement)

This information is for general knowledge and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional in Nepal (or your location) for diagnosis, treatment, and personalized advice regarding your medication.