Luvox CR: Medication for Social Anxiety Disorder?
Luvox CR: What is it used for?
Luvox CR is frequently used in the treatment of Social Anxiety Disorder which is
sometimes referred to as Social Phobia. Luvox CR may also be used to treat
obsessions and compulsions related to Obsessive Compulsive Disorder.
Luvox CR: What should I know about this medication?
Many antidepressant medications including Luvox CR have been known to increase
suicidal thoughts or actions in some children, teenagers and young adults at the
initiation of treatment. The most common and serious mental health illness known
to cause suicidal thoughts and actions is depression. Some people are more at
risk of suicidal thoughts and actions than others. These may include people who
have Bipolar Disorder or a family history of Bipolar Disorder which used to be
referred to as Manic Depressive illness.
You should always pay close attention to changes, including sudden changes in an
individual's feelings, thoughts, behaviors and moods. This is especially
important when antidepressant medication is first started or when there's been a
change in dosage.
Always call your doctor right away to report any sudden or new changes in moods,
feelings, thoughts or behaviors. Specific signs to watch for include the
initiation of depression or worsening of depression, new or worsening anxiety,
suicidal thinking or behavior, extreme hyperactivity, restlessness, panic
attacks, insomnia, or hostility.
Be aware that Luvox CR has not been approved for use in children. Always keep
following-up visits with your doctor as scheduled and consult with your
physician regularly if you have any concerns about symptoms or side effects.
Is Luvox CR safe for everyone?
Luvox CR should not be taken if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it or
to any of the ingredients in this medication.
Should I take Luvox CR if I am pregnant or breast-feeding?
You should always notify your doctor if you intend to become pregnant or have
become pregnant while you are taking Luvox CR. This medication is believed to be
secreted in human breast milk. Because of the possible serious adverse reactions
in nursing infants while the mother is on Luvox CR, a decision should be made
whether to discontinue this medication or nursing your child in conjunction with
the considering the importance of this drug to the nursing mother.
Storage of Luvox CR:
This medication should be stored at room temperature and protected from high
humidity.
Information adapted from The PDR Pocket Guide to
Prescription Drugs
Additional
Information and webpage by
Paul Susic
MA
Licensed Psychologist Ph.D. Candidate
(Health and Geriatric Psychologist)
