Fluvoxamine for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder User Reviews (Page 2)
Reviews for Fluvoxamine
- Cor...
- Taken for 5 to 10 years
- December 16, 2017
Fluvoxamine "I started taking Luvox for my OCD in 2007. I was instructed to begin with 50 mg a day, then increase by 50 mg once a week until I reach a daily dose of 400 mg. At 350 mg per day, I began to feel like I could stop doing the repetitive behaviors, and at 400 mg, my obsessive-compulsive disorder ceased to exist! It literally disappeared from my brain, like I never even had it! I love Luvox, and I wouldn't give up the freedom I have without OCD for the world."
- MJa...
- Taken for 1 to 2 years
- January 22, 2020
Fluvoxamine "My son takes Luvox in a small dose to lessen OCD, but if we increase his dose, it makes his OCD worse. I do want to share that he had a sudden onset of OCD overnight! Turns out it is from Lyme disease and Bartonella co-infection, which causes PANS - Post-immune Neurological Syndrome! Strep, Lyme, and other bacteria can cause this. If OCD medicine doesn't really work, check with your doctor and ask about PANS, Lyme, or PANDAS from Strep..."
Frequently asked questions
- SSRIs vs SNRIs - What's the difference between them?
- What are some common side effects of antidepressants?
- Can the antidepressant fluvoxamine (Luvox) be used to treat COVID-19?
- Anonymous
- July 9, 2009
Fluvoxamine "Like one of the previous reviewers mentioned, OCD is the underlying cause of many other conditions. I went through several doctors, medicines, and diagnoses before finally discovering my OCD and treating that, versus the other problems and symptoms caused by the OCD. Luvox has been a wonderful help for me. It has virtually eliminated all of my symptoms of OCD. Also, what I like the best about Luvox is that it has completely eliminated my racing and intrusive thoughts. Though people laugh, when asked, I tell people the best effect of Luvox is that it quiets the voices in my head, and I honestly feel like me again. The only drawbacks of Luvox that I have seen are: some trouble sleeping, loss of appetite, and excessive bruising."
- Eli...
- Taken for 10 years or more
- February 16, 2014
Fluvoxamine "15 years ago, after suffering with severe panic attacks, I found a doctor who found the root of my troubles was my Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. I was on Luvox, brand name only, because when I tried the generics they did not work. During the time it was off the market, I suffered terribly until it came back. It keeps my OCD in check to the best it can be. Brand name only, I do not know why."
Are you taking this medicine?
Your review helps others make informed decisions.- tea...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- July 31, 2017
Fluvoxamine "Was switched to Luvox from Lexapro since we found out my anxiety and depression stemmed from my OCD. Ruminations and cleaning OCD tendencies. I cannot explain how INCREDIBLE that has completely flipped my mindset off (in a good way). I no longer need to take my high doses of Xanax to sleep, I do not need to take Xanax during the day, I also do not need to take my Adderall to concentrate anymore. I know this is an older drug, but I wish I would have known about this before the Lexapro!"
- Anonymous
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- October 3, 2024
Fluvoxamine "I have had OCD and generalized anxiety disorder ever since I was a kid. I always would ruminate over thoughts every single day, which was basically my life. I thought everyone thought like me. As I’ve gotten older, it has only gotten worse. I never have taken medicine and stayed away from it up until college when I had a horrible OCD episode that lasted 5 weeks straight with just an unwanted thought. I wasn’t able to sleep. I would get 2 hours of sleep, before at the most. I was having anxiety attacks and panic attacks, it was so bad I could barely stay awake. The thoughts consumed my life every minute, I never got a break. It was distressing, and I thought multiple times about suicide, like there was no way out of this mess. I decided to go on medicine, which my doctor recommended Luvox, and I was nervous at first, but could feel like I was able to push through it. After a week and every week and dosage that has gone by, it’s only gotten better. I am now on 250 mg and 2 months in :)"
- lis...
- July 3, 2013
Fluvoxamine "I was prescribed Luvox for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder even though I don't think I have OCD. I think I have anxiety and panic disorder/depression. I have excessive worrying, panic attacks, sleeping problems, ruminations but no compulsions I can think of. However, my psychiatrist says I have OCD and put me on Luvox. Immediately, my sleep improved and my excessive worrying has been reduced by about 50%. I am so much more relaxed. However, I don't seem to really care about anything and it's hard to get out of bed and do much even on a low dose (25mg). I feel like I am in slow motion and I'm always tired. My body also feels like I have weights attached to it. I see a new psychiatrist in two weeks."
- Anonymous
- Taken for 2 to 5 years
- December 18, 2012
Fluvoxamine "Truly a lifesaver for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. My racing thoughts and compulsions have disappeared. I am on 300 mg. I tried Paxil before - Luvox is much better for OCD. Some minor symptoms such as apathy and fatigue."
- rah...
- Taken for less than 1 month
- July 14, 2013
Fluvoxamine "I have been attempting to use Luvox for my Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, but I have a weak stomach, so I haven't made it past the 25mg yet until my body adjusts. I could tell that I was getting better though. I stopped it for a week, and my compulsions came back worse than before. I've read some people think they don't have OCD because they don't have compulsions, compulsions are not needed for the diagnosis, just obsessions. I am a social worker, so it has been difficult to help others with their mental illness when I suffer from OCD and ADHD, which I didn't start medication for until recently (I am 28). I am hoping my picking will go away completely once I adjust to the medicine."
- rvr...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- September 13, 2012
Fluvoxamine "After trying Zoloft and Lexapro, without any success and made my symptoms worse. Luvox helped me get my life back, the best medicine. I feel MUCH more in control of my OCD. Excellent, even when I feel sleepy sometimes as a side effect, it's worth it!"
- JRa...
- Taken for 5 to 10 years
- November 2, 2018
Fluvoxamine "I have just started back on Luvox after 14 months of being off it. I was on Luvox for 9 years prior to this and felt good enough to slowly take myself off the drug. OCD anxiety issues have returned. I forgot how bad the symptoms made me feel, it’s great to read other people’s comments on their own experiences. I didn’t realize how effective Luvox was until the last few months: the anxiety, unwanted thoughts, and my mind constantly running away like a freight train. Only 3rd day back on Luvox and feel a lot better. Having a few head spins throughout the day but slowly adjusting to the medication."
- O B...
- Taken for 2 to 5 years
- May 26, 2016
Fluvoxamine "To be clear, I am on Luvox for its entire spectrum of effects-OCD, anxiety and stress, and major depressive disorder. I have been on almost every single drug on the market, and Luvox is consistently the only one that has ever worked. The Luvox/Latuda (atypical antipsychotic) combination worked wonders for me in the past, and though I am only on Luvox now, it has definitely helped with curbing recurrent, insistent thoughts of hopelessness and despair. It has blunted my anxiety, and after years of depression, I am starting to feel a little better. Just tired as all get out, though!"
- Aus...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- November 18, 2014
Fluvoxamine "I finally got the courage to talk to my GP about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder and all the other issues it was creating. I was first OCD when 14 (Now 33). I was given some samples of Aropax back then and it seemed to eliminate the symptoms immediately, but over time and no planning for continued dosage, my condition worsened and led me to Luvox. I was really down and out. The Luvox initially made me very tired, diminished Sex Drive, and loss of appetite. The enhanced depression was getting to me. The initial 50mg dose was increased (I'm 6'5 115kgs) to 100mg. After 4-5 weeks, this started getting better. The sleepiness became the opposite (hard to sleep). Take them at the same time every day and keep a journal of your improvement."
- Obs...
- Taken for 2 to 5 years
- May 12, 2020
"I have to credit this medication with saving my life. Over the past 13 years, I’ve been on over 30 different medications. Every SSRI, SNRI, ketamine, even the antipsychotics. When those failed, I had ECT. My OCD was so severe that I was hospitalized twice for suicidal ideation. I was unable to work, unable to finish my degree because I couldn’t stop obsessing. I was miserable. Now I’ve been on Luvox for 2 years. I’ve gotten married. I have a job and a house. Things that I never thought I would be able to have. Yes, life is still a daily challenge, but it’s not unbearable. Luvox is the only drug that has calmed my OCD. 150 mg. The only side effects are nausea and complete loss of libido. Small prices to pay for sanity."
- KT9...
- Taken for 2 to 5 years
- June 12, 2018
Fluvoxamine "I had a great experience with Luvox, personally. I had very few side effects aside from being quite tired in the first few months (I was on a 300 mg dose w/2 mg risperidone). A big factor for me was that I hadn’t had OCD symptoms very long when I went on the medication, and I did a LOT of CBT therapy - so when I came off the medication, I had the tools to help myself. I was on Luvox for 3 years while doing the intensive therapy for my incredibly severe symptoms. I’m now off the medication and have (touch wood!) not had an OCD symptom in over a year. If I do relapse though, I will go straight back to Luvox."
- rea...
- Taken for 1 to 6 months
- December 11, 2018
Fluvoxamine "It works. I want to say, please keep taking your pills, even if you feel better. I did this mistake after taking it for two years, so I am trying to cure myself again. After a month back on them, I feel better but still need time. Without medicine, my brain is a monster, but this medicine cured my brain mostly."
- Anonymous
- February 11, 2011
Fluvoxamine "This medicine has been extremely effective for me. After the 1st dose, I could feel a difference. It has also helped with anxiety and depression. There are a few side effects such as night sweats, nausea, and vivid dreams. Hopefully, they will decrease with time, this is only my 3rd week on it."
- OKC...
- July 8, 2010
Fluvoxamine "I have used Luvox for over a year now. Before I was taking Effexor, and it made me angry, so I had to switch. I started at 100mg then gradually went to 200mg. At 200mg, I found the most relief for my OCD, but I didn't want to do anything. I had no motivation to clean my house, do the laundry, or even take a shower. I just didn't care. As a mother of 4, that was a huge problem. I gradually decreased my dosage back down to 100mg and have motivation back. I still have the rituals and things that completely drive me up the wall and did have those still at 200mg. I'm thinking about trying a new medication because this one works for a bit but doesn't give me the relief I need. I have to take Klonopin to calm my brain down at night so I can sleep."
- Jon...
- March 30, 2017
Fluvoxamine "I had attempted suicide and was convinced my life was over prior to being on this, it saved my life, plain and simple. I take Risperdal to augment the effect of Luvox. If you find the Luvox isn't working entirely, try adding an antipsychotic, it did wonders for me. I have schizophrenia and OCD, so having an antipsychotic is absolutely essential. But yeah, Luvox has done wonders for me. It may take a few months before you feel the full effects, though. I just got raised to 200 mg, and so far, so good. Thank you, Luvox."
- Han...
- May 19, 2015
Fluvoxamine "This medication has helped me tremendously. I'm not sure how I lived without it. It took about a week of me taking the medication for my symptoms of OCD to improve, and ever since I have felt 99%. Once every few months I have my 'alright days,' but then again, I do have my consecutive couple of days that I forget to take them before I fall asleep.... :S :)"
- Anonymous
- Taken for 1 to 2 years
- February 2, 2013
Fluvoxamine "The day that I'm writing this review, I was switched to Prozac by my doctor. Luvox for around 8 months worked wonders for my OCD. I was basically symptom-free during that time with very little anxiety and worry. After the 8-month mark, it slowly started losing its effectiveness. My doctor bumped it from 150 mg to 200 mg, but that made everything worse. I wasn't falling asleep until 7 am, I had no energy during the day, and my OCD symptoms were basically completely back. I was also on Zoloft for around a year, and the same thing happened there. Everybody is different, though. If you have OCD and haven't tried Luvox, give it a try. When everything was going well, I still experienced sexual side effects like low libido and delayed ejaculation."
- npo...
- Taken for 10 years or more
- August 18, 2018
Fluvoxamine "Works very quickly for OCD. Was on Luvox for almost fifteen years. Went off it for four years. OCD symptoms returned, so I went back on my previous dose and got chronic insomnia. The severe OCD thoughts went away within days, though, so I continued use. I lowered the dose, and the insomnia dissipated after about 3 weeks. Have been back on it about six weeks and feeling much better. Am currently on 100mg."
- Ell...
- Taken for 1 to 2 years
- October 22, 2014
Fluvoxamine "Luvox is fantastic - My Dr put me on it first up. I didn't try any other medicines, and I've been on it for over a year now and have happily lived almost symptom-free. The only thing is when I miss it one or two nights, I become a bit of a mess, crying and feeling anxious. Also, I'm starting to feel a bit of depression, which is odd for me, but I think it will just be a matter of lowering the dose. It was so bad I was on 300 mg and 2 mg of Risperidone, but now down to 300 mg Luvox only, but perhaps should try going down to 200 mg to see if the motivation comes back."
- Bro...
- Taken for 10 years or more
- December 27, 2019
Fluvoxamine "I’ve been taking Luvox for close to 15 years. I started on 50 mg and moved to 100 mg after about 3 years. I am now on 200 mg (recently increased from 150 mg). I take 100 mg in the AM and 100 mg before bed. It’s stopped me from experiencing distressing intrusive thoughts completely and helped reduce my anxiety to a manageable level. I also take Seroquel and Concerta on workdays."
Are you taking this medicine?
Your review helps others make informed decisions.Learn more about Obsessive Compulsive Disorder
Care guides
Medicine.com guides (external)
More about fluvoxamine
- Check interactions
- Compare alternatives
- Pricing & coupons
- Reviews (382)
- Drug images
- Side effects
- Dosage information
- During pregnancy
- Support group
- Drug class: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors
- Breastfeeding
- En español
Patient resources
- Fluvoxamine drug information
- Fluvoxamine (Advanced Reading)
- Fluvoxamine Tablets
- Fluvoxamine Extended-Release Capsules
Fluvoxamine "I have been taking the generic brand of Luvox for just over 14 years now. It seemed to work for the first few years, but it would only reduce the intrusive thoughts and anxiety, allowing me to manage throughout the day. I just switched to the Luvox brand name a couple of days ago. I feel like I just got my life back. I practically feel cured. I am more mentally focused, my concentration is much better, and most importantly, my intrusive unwanted thoughts are pretty much gone. I feel like I can carry the world on my shoulders. The Luvox brand name has changed my life forever. I hope it continues to do so for the years to come. I thank God for giving me the idea to try and switch from generic to brand!"