Does Luvox Affect Fertility? (+ 3 Side Effects)

By Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii (PhD)

Page last updated: 06/02/2024 | Next review date: 06/02/2026

Author bio

Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii, PhD, is a Pharmacist with expertise in Drug Design and Development, Enzymes, Molecular Modelling, and Photodynamic Therapy. She writes and reviews content on these topics.

Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii’s Highlights:

Postdoctoral fellow at the Department of Biochemistry at the University of São Paulo, emphasizing therapy of neglected diseases using light.

PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences focusing on drug design and development at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of the University of São Paulo.

Six months as an international researcher at the Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases (University of California San Diego)

Master’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences focusing on drug design and development at the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences of the University of São Paulo.

Bachelor of Pharmacy at the University of Mogi das Cruzes – São Paulo / Brazil

Professional Experience:

2012 – 2018 Project manager at University of São Paulo – Pharmacy Department

Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii has worked with computational studies, synthesis, biological evaluation, design, and development of new inhibitor candidates for Chagas Disease and Leishmaniasis.

2017 – 2017 International research fellow at University of California San Diego Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences – Center for Discovery and Innovation in Parasitic Diseases.

She used Virtual Screening (VS) and High-Throughput Screening (HTS) Integration in the Discovery of new drugs against neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).

2018 – 2019 Faculdades Oswaldo Cruz

Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii was a professor in the Faculty of Pharmacy, teaching the subjects of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Drug Development.

2019 – 2021 Researcher in Biochemistry University of São Paulo – Biochemistry Department

She applied Photodynamic Therapy in Leishmaniasis Treatment, mentored undergraduate students in scientific activities, and wrote, executed, translated, and reported scientific projects with funding agencies.

2023-2023 UniPiaget – University Center.

Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii was a Biology, Nutrition, Physiotherapy, and Pharmacy professor.

Education:

2018 -2021 Postdoctoral at the Department of Biochemistry at the University of São Paulo

2013 -2018 PhD of Science: Drugs and Medicines at Department of Pharmacy at University of São Paulo

2012 -2013 M.Sc. of Sciences: Drugs and Medicines at the Department of Pharmacy at the University of São Paulo

2005-2008 Bachelor of Pharmacy at the University of Mogi das Cruzes

The leading publications of Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii are:

Vital-Fujii, D.G, Baptista, M.S. (2021). Progress in the photodynamic therapy treatment of Leishmaniasis. Brazilian Journal of Medical and Biological Research, 54, 1-11.

Gatti, F. M., Gomes, R.A., da Fonseca, A.L., Lima, E.J.C., Vital-Fujii, D.G., Taranto, A.G., Varotti, F.P., Trossini, G.H.G. (2020). Antiplasmodial activity of sulfonylhydrazones: in vitro and in silico approaches. Future medicinal chemistry, 13, 233-250.

Silva, E.J., Bezerra-Souza, A., Passero, L.F., Laurenti, M.D., Ferreira, G.M., Fujii, D.G.V., et al. (2018). Synthesis, leishmanicidal activity, structural descriptors and structure-activity relationship of quinoline derivatives. Future medicinal chemistry, 10, 2069-2085.

Leite, F.H.A., Froes, T.Q., da Silva, S.G., de Souza, E.I.M., Vital-Fuji,i D.G., Trossini, G.H.G., et al. (2017). An integrated approach towards the discovery of novel non-nucleoside Leishmania major pteridine reductase 1 inhibitors. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 132, 322-332.

Vital, D.G., Damasceno, F.S., Rapado, L.N., Silber, A.M., Vilella, F.S., Ferreira, R.S., et al. (2017). Application of bioisosterism in design of the semicarbazone derivatives as cruzain inhibitors: a theoretical and experimental study. Journal of Biomolecular Structure and Dynamics, 35, 1244–1259.

Mello, J. F.R., Gomes, R.A., Vital-Fujii, D.G., Ferreira, G.M., Trossini, G.H.G. (2017). Fragment-based drug discovery as alternative strategy to the drug development for neglected diseases. Chemical Biology & Drug Design, 90, 1067-1078.

Pantaleao, S.Q., Fujii, D.G.V., Maltarollo, V.G., da C. Silva, D., Trossini, G.H.G., Weber, K.C., et al. (2017). The Role of QSAR and Virtual Screening Studies in Type 2 Diabetes Drug Discovery. Medicinal Chemistry, 13, 706-720.

Vital, D., Arribas, M., Trossini, G. (2014). Molecular Modeling and Docking Application to Evaluate Cruzain Inhibitory Activity by Chalcones and Hydrazides. Letters in Drug Design and Discovery, 11, 249-255.

Blau, L., Menegon, R.F., Trossini, G.H.G., Molino, J.V.D., Vital, D.G., Cicarelli, R.M.B., et al. (2013). Design, synthesis and biological evaluation of new aryl thiosemicarbazone as antichagasic candidates. European Journal of Medicinal Chemistry, 67, 142-151.

You can view some of Dr Drielli’s work below and links to her professional profile.

Orcid: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-9270-0466

Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Drielli-Gomes-Vital-Fujii

Scopus: https://www.scopus.com/authid/detail.uri?authorId=55829534000

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=F9U50AEAAAAJ&hl=pt-BR

Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/driellivital

Escavador: https://www.escavador.com/sobre/6101380/drielli-gomes-vital

CDIPD: https://cdipd.org/index.php/about-us/visiting-scientists

Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii (PhD)

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In this article, we will discuss the effects of Luvox (Fluvoxamine) on male and female fertility. We will also discuss some research studies and what one should do if Fluvoxamine is causing changes in fertility.

Does Luvox affect fertility?

Luvox (Fluvoxamine) may affect fertility in some people. Luvox is not commonly associated with side effects affecting fertility but sexual dysfunction and decreased sex drive are linked with SSRI use.

Fertility refers to the ability to conceive and have a successful pregnancy. Various factors can influence fertility in both men and women, such as medications like antidepressants, age, mental health and more (1).

Luvox, being an antidepressant, is used to treat mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression (2).

However, it is important to note that many patients have fertility issues while taking Luvox while some may not experience any altering effects on fertility. These variations occur because people are unique and may react differently to medications.

How does Luvox affect fertility?

The effect of Luvox on fertility is not fully elucidated. Luvox, being an SSRI, affects the serotonin levels in the brain by inhibiting its reuptake. It is believed that serotonin plays a role in regulating the reproductive process including the menstrual cycle.

However, women taking SSRIs experience irregular menstrual cycles and ovulation which in turn affect their fertility. In men, alterations in semen parameters and sperm concentration have been associated with the use of SSRIs. These changes can affect fertility in men.

These changes are thought to be related to alterations in serotonin levels and the relationship between the brain and reproductive hormones.

What does research suggest?

There are limited research studies examining the effects of Luvox on fertility. Most studies primarily focus on the impact of Luvox on male fertility.

One study indicated that Luvox (Fluvoxamine) might temporarily affect male fertility by impacting sperm quality and hormones related to reproduction. Fortunately, many of these changes tend to reverse during the recovery period (3).

Another study, focusing on the effects of SSRIs on semen quality, demonstrated that SSRI antidepressants, including Fluvoxamine, may have the potential to influence semen quality (4).

This influence includes reducing sperm concentration and motility, as well as altering sperm DNA integrity. These effects have the potential to reduce fertility in men (4).

However, it is important to consider the indirect effects of Fluvoxamine on fertility. Mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety affect fertility due to stress. Fluvoxamine being an antidepressant helps manage such conditions indirectly benefitting fertility (1).

What are the potential side effects of Fluvoxamine on fertility?

Fluvoxamine, like other SSRIs such as Sertraline, Citalopram, etc, may have certain effects on fertility, although the evidence is not entirely clear-cut.

Following are the potential side effects of Fluvoxamine on fertility:

Sexual dysfunction

Fluvoxamine may be associated with sexual dysfunction in both males and females. This medication is associated with decreased libido leading to decreased sex drive and sexual dysfunction in both males and females (5).

Pregnancy complications

Fluvoxamine and other SSRIs have been associated with pregnancy-related complications. Prolonged hospitalization and respiratory difficulties have been reported in infants who were exposed to SSRIs during the third trimester (6).

Therefore, careful use of Fluvoxamine is advised during pregnancy to avoid complications.

Menstrual irregularities

Some women may experience irregular ovulation and menstrual cycles when using Luvox, potentially affecting fertility (5).

Changes in sperm quality

The earlier discussed changes in sperm quality while taking Luvox affect male fertility (4).

Factors affecting fertility while using Luvox?

Several factors can influence fertility while using Fluvoxamine or other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. These include:

Age: Fertility tends to decline with age, particularly in women. Increased paternal age also affects male fertility.

Pre-existing diseases: Underlying health conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women and decreased sperm production in men may affect fertility.

Medication interaction: Fluvoxamine may interact with other medications, potentially affecting fertility. Inform your doctor about all the medication you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Lifestyle factors: Alcohol and caffeine consumption can negatively affect fertility in both men and women.

Diet: Poor nutrition can impact fertility. A balanced diet with adequate nutrients is essential for reproductive health.

Genetic factors: Individual genetic factors can also play a role in fertility. Certain genetic conditions may impact reproductive health.

It is crucial to have open communication with your healthcare provider about fertility concerns. They can give personalized guidance based on your medical history, current health condition and reproductive goals.

What to do if Fluvoxamine is affecting your fertility?

If you suspect that Luvox is affecting your fertility, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider. Always share thorough details about any changes you have noticed since beginning this medication.

Based on the evaluation, your healthcare provider might consider adjusting your medication’s dosage or exploring alternative medications to treat depression without affecting your fertility.

Are there alternatives to Fluvoxamine that do not affect fertility?

Atypical antidepressants such as Bupropion have a lower incidence of affecting fertility in both men and women. The atypical antidepressants are the least associated with causing sexual side effects.

If Fluvoxamine monotherapy is causing sexual dysfunction then your doctor might add atypical antidepressants to your medication regimen to prevent SSRIs-induced sexual side effects.

It is important to note that if you are facing fertility-associated side effects with Fluvoxamine, do not abruptly stop taking the medication as it may have withdrawal effects. Rather discuss your case with your doctor.

Conclusion

In my view, Fluvoxamine is a valuable medication for treating mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression, but, it is crucial to be aware of its potential effects on fertility.