Can Fluvoxamine and Abilify be taken together? (+3 factors)

This article will discuss the potential risks and interactions associated with the combination of Fluvoxamine and Abilify. it will also cover the benefits of taking both medications together and finally, it will provide guidelines for combining both drugs. 

Can Fluvoxamine and Abilify be taken together?

Fluvoxamine and Abilify can be taken together only if prescribed by healthcare providers (1). However, this combination can pose potential risks and interactions that should be carefully monitored. Fluvoxamine can increase the level of blood levels of aripiprazole which may amplify the intensity of drowsiness, seizures, and low blood pressure (2).

Another serious concern is the increased risk of Parkinson’s disease. The symptoms of this disease include tremors, rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability. In advanced stages, this disease can result in cognitive decline and even autonomic dysfunction (3). 

Moreover, in some conditions combining these medications causes serotonin syndrome because they both have the potential to increase the serotonin level in the brain. It’s a life-threatening condition characterized by symptoms like confusion, hallucinations, rapid heart and higher body temperature (4). 

Remember, individual responses to medications can vary. Therefore, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions and adhere to the treatment plan, especially if he prescribed both medications together. 

What are the benefits of taking Fluvoxamine and Abilify together?

The combination of Fluvoxamine and Abilify has been studied in some clinical trials, particularly in treating mental health issues. In some cases combining Aripiprazole with Fluvoxamine may be considered an augmentative strategy for individuals with treatment-resistant conditions such as OCD (obsessive-compulsive disorder).

According to one study, this medicinal combination may provide better control over symptoms associated with certain mental health conditions. Abilify is an atypical antipsychotic that can have mood-stabilizing effects, and Fluvoxamine is an SSRI that affects serotonin levels in the brain. Some potential symptoms that can be targeted by this combination include psychotic features or OCD. 

In another study, a 12-week trial was conducted involving 15 participants diagnosed with MDD (major depressive disorder) with psychotic features. They were prescribed fluvoxamine and Abilify together. With a flexible dosage regimen, 10 out of 15 patients completed the trial and exhibited positive results. 

The overall clinical status as measured by Clinical global impression (CGI) also improved significantly. Tolerability was generally favourable, with only mild and transient side effects reported by a few participants. This study showed that the combination of Abilify and Fluvoxamine holds positive results in treating MDD and psychotic features (6). 

However, despite these findings, these studies state that no firm conclusions can be drawn regarding the efficiency of combinations of Abilify and Fluvoxamine. In some instances, the combination may be a part of an individualized treatment plan that is carefully monitored by healthcare professionals.

What are the additive side effects of Fluvoxamine and Abilify?

The side effects of fluvoxamine and Abilify are mentioned below:

Fluvoxamine Side Effects

The common side effects of Fluvoxamine include nausea, insomnia, nightmares,  drowsiness, dry mouth, weight changes, sexual dysfunction, sweating, and allergic reactions (rash, itching, or swelling).

Abilify Side Effects

On the other hand, the side effects of Abilify include weight gain, drowsiness, akathisia, anxiety, blurred vision, constipation, increased blood sugar levels, lipid abnormalities, and tremors. 

Side effects of combining Fluvoxamine and Abilify

When taken together, the adverse side effects of Fluvoxamine and Abilify include:

• Increased risk of serotonin syndrome
• Exacerbation of orthostatic hypotension, where a person may feel lazy or lightheaded upon standing up.
• Alleviation in akathisia (restlessness), parkinsonian symptoms (tremors, stiffness) and dystonia (muscle contractions).
• Intensification of common symptoms such as weight gain, nausea, or sleep disturbances. 

It is important to know that these side effects can vary from person to person, and not everyone will experience them. Healthcare providers carefully consider the risks and benefits of combining medications based on the patient’s condition and medical history.  

How to safely take Fluvoxamine and Abilify together?

Taking Fluvoxamine and Abilify together should be done under the proper guidance of a healthcare provider. Here are some general guidelines for safely taking both medications together:

• Inform your doctor about all the medications including over-the-counter drugs and supplements to access potential interactions.
• Never change the dosage of either medication without proper consultation. 
• Always go for regular checkups so that your doctors can assess your progress, monitor for side effects, and perform blood tests to monitor liver function. 
• Be aware of symptoms of Serotonin syndrome including confusion or hallucinations. 
• Be cautious when changing positions, especially moving from a sitting or lying position to minimize the risk of orthostatic hypotension. If you feel dizziness or lightheaded during casual movements, immediately inform your doctor. 
• Avoid drug interactions because some substances like MAOIs (monoamine oxidase inhibitors), Thioridazine, Triptans, or  NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) should not be taken with the combination of fluvoxamine and Abilify. 
• Be mindful of lifestyle factors that can impact your health such as diet, exercise, and alcohol consumption. 

The decision to take Fluvoxamine and Abilify together should be made only by healthcare professionals. However, one should be aware of its potential risks. These medications can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome and orthostatic problems. 

Furthermore, while some studies suggest the potential benefits of combining these medications the evidence is not sufficient to prove the 100% efficiency of this combination. 

In my opinion the decision to combine Fluvoxamine and Abilify should be based on thorough assessemnts of indivdual’s medical hisotry, symptoms and response to treatment. According to my research, both medications may offer benefits in managing mental health conditions like MDD and OCD with psychotic features. 

References