Fluvoxamine (Luvox) for Anxiety, OCD, and Depression

Fluvoxamine—commonly known by its brand name Luvox—is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) with strong evidence for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, and depression. At Alpine Psychiatry, we understand how these conditions affect every aspect of life, and we use evidence-based tools like Fluvoxamine alongside therapy and functional interventions to create personalized treatment plans.

What Is Fluvoxamine?

Fluvoxamine increases serotonin levels in the brain by blocking its reabsorption (reuptake), thereby helping regulate mood, reduce intrusive thoughts, and ease symptoms of anxiety. It’s FDA-approved for treating OCD and social anxiety disorder and is often used off-label for depression, PTSD, and eating disorders.

How Effective Is Fluvoxamine for OCD?

Research suggests that nearly two-thirds of patients with OCD experience significant symptom relief with Fluvoxamine. In a study examining first-episode, treatment-naïve patients over 12 weeks, participants showed substantial improvements on the Yale-Brown Obsessive-Compulsive Scale (Y-BOCS), with scores dropping from 23.48 to 12.88. Quality of life measures also improved significantly, especially in domains such as communication and self-care.

Dosing Guidelines

Immediate-Release (IR) Tablets

• Starting Dose: 50 mg once daily (preferably at bedtime)

• Maintenance: May increase by 50 mg every 4–7 days based on response

• Maximum: Up to 300 mg/day (or 600 mg in severe OCD), with doses over 100 mg typically split into morning and evening doses

Extended-Release (ER) Capsules

• Starting Dose: 100 mg once daily at bedtime

• Maintenance: May increase by 50–100 mg increments every 4–7 days

• Maximum: 300 mg/day, usually taken once daily

High-dose Fluvoxamine (up to 600 mg/day) has been studied in treatment-resistant OCD and is considered safe when monitored closely.

Common Side Effects

Like other SSRIs, Fluvoxamine is generally well-tolerated. Common side effects include:

• Nausea

• Insomnia or drowsiness

• Dry mouth

• Dizziness

Rare but serious side effects include serotonin syndrome and increased suicidal thinking in individuals under 25. Patients should report any unusual symptoms to their provider immediately.

Contraindications and Drug Interactions

Fluvoxamine should not be taken with:

• MAO inhibitors

• Certain pain medications

• Blood thinners

It’s also contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity to the drug. A full medication review is essential before starting treatment.

FDA Approval and Off-Label Uses

Fluvoxamine was FDA-approved in 1994 for OCD in adults and children 8 and older. It is also approved for social anxiety disorder. Off-label, it has shown promise in:

• Major Depressive Disorder: Especially when anxiety is present

• PTSD: Emerging research supports symptom improvement

• Bulimia Nervosa and Eating Disorders: Can help regulate mood and compulsive behaviors

Alpine Psychiatry’s Integrative Approach

At Alpine Psychiatry, we take a holistic approach to mental health—combining medication management with therapy, biomedical interventions, and functional testing when needed. Fluvoxamine is one of many tools we use to help patients regain control and improve their quality of life.

We also support emerging treatment strategies, including supplements like N-acetylcysteine (NAC), inositol, and memantine for OCD, as well as advanced therapies like TMS and Spravato for treatment-resistant cases.