Does Luvox cause fatigue? (5+ tips)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will discuss how Luvox may cause fatigue in the individuals taking it. We will discuss the mechanism behind Luvox-induced fatigue, research studies, and tips for managing fatigue.
Does Luvox cause fatigue?
Yes, Luvox might induce fatigue as a side effect in people taking it. It is important to note that various people react differently to therapy. Some individuals may experience less fatigue than others which is why is important to keep your doctor updated on your situation. (1)
Luvox-induced fatigue may be caused by insomnia and somnolence associated with Luvox therapy. As with other SSRIs, this might occur during the initial stages of the treatment. However, after a particular amount of time, this side effect is likely to get better. (1)
What is the link between Luvox and fatigue?
Luvox works by increasing the levels of serotonin, which helps regulate mood and treats mental health conditions. However, serotonin is also essential for sleep because it stimulates the synthesis of melatonin, which is important in the regulation of the sleep cycle. (2)
Serotonin is also responsible for maintaining the sleep cycle stages. This implies that variations in serotonin levels at the beginning of Luvox therapy might produce sleep disturbances that can lead to fatigue. (2)
What does research suggest?
A study looked at the effect of Luvox on nighttime sleep and found that Luvox disturbed sleep continuity during the night. This might indicate that a disrupted night’s sleep can result in fatigue during the day. (3)
Another research investigated the role of Luvox in causing circadian rhythm sleep disorder (CRSD) in patients taking it. It revealed that the patients did not have sleep disturbances prior to therapy with Luvox and that these disturbances began after initiating the therapy with Luvox. (4)
Also, after decreasing the dose of Luvox and in some cases discontinuing medication, sleep difficulties resolved. In two of four clinical trials, using melatonin 5mg/day with Luvox returned the sleep-wake cycles to normal. (4)
What is the importance of consulting your doctor?
It is important to consult your doctor so that they can provide you with recommendations after evaluating your medical history and level of fatigue. They might help you by adjusting your Luvox dose, such as prescribing a divided dose or a lower dose. (5)
There can be a number of other reasons for fatigue, such as lifestyle choices or other medicines. Your healthcare practitioner can assist you in identifying any relevant factors contributing to fatigue other than Luvox. This will contribute to increasing the effectiveness of your treatment. (5)
Your doctor can also help you by exploring and suggesting treatment alternatives that can be as effective as Luvox but less likely to cause fatigue. You should also have follow-up consultations with your doctor so that Luvox-induced fatigue can be monitored. (5)
Are there any tips to manage Luvox-induced fatigue?
The following tips can be helpful in managing Luvox-induced fatigue: (5,6)
Timing of medication
Luvox-induced fatigue might get better if you take the drug at a different time. You can discuss this with your doctor, and they may advise you to switch the timing of your medicine from day to nighttime. This can help you in having a better sleep during the night and as a result, you will not feel drowsy during the day.
Better sleep environment
You should evaluate your sleep habits so that you can have a better sleep pattern. It is important to focus on your sleep hygiene by making your room sleep-friendly. Avoid screen time before going to bed, and make sure your room is quiet, dark, and comfy.
Avoid caffeine
Caffeine can provide a temporary energy boost but caffeinated drinks should be avoided before bedtime since they might disturb your sleep. It is preferable to drink water instead and stay hydrated throughout the day as dehydration can increase fatigue.
Avoid alcohol and other medications
You should avoid taking drugs like other SSRIs, monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and other antidepressants unless prescribed by your doctor as they can interact with Luvox and increase the side effects. It is also advised to avoid alcohol with Luvox as it can lead to increased fatigue and drowsiness.
Healthy diet
You should have a healthy diet that includes a balanced portion of carbs, proteins, and unsaturated fats. Your body needs energy to carry out all the essential functions and to stay active. This is only possible if you have a good diet with meals planned at the proper time.
Meditation and yoga
It is important to practice relaxation techniques like yoga and meditation as they can help with mental as well as physical fatigue. You should find the relaxation technique that works best for you and integrate it into your daily life.
In my opinion, you should monitor Luvox-induced fatigue and report it to your doctor so that they may advise you according to the intensity of the fatigue. You should try to manage fatigue by making changes to your lifestyle such as improving your sleep, incorporating yoga or meditation into your routine, and having a healthy diet.
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References
1.-
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Highlights Of Prescribing Information [Internet]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2008/022235lbl.pdf
2.-
Sejbuk, M., Mirończuk-Chodakowska, I., & Witkowska, A. M. (2022). Sleep Quality: A Narrative Review on Nutrition, Stimulants, and Physical Activity as Important Factors. Nutrients, 14(9). https://doi.org/10.3390/nu14091912
3.-
Wilson, S. J., Bailey, J. E., Alford, C., & Nutt, D. J. (2000). Sleep and daytime sleepiness the next day following single night-time dose of fluvoxamine, dothiepin and placebo in normal volunteers. Journal of Psychopharmacology, 14(4), 378–386. doi:10.1177/026988110001400420 https://sci-hub.se/10.1177/026988110001400420
4.-
Hermesh, H., Lemberg, H., Abadi, J., & Dagan, Y. (2001). Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorders as a Possible Side Effect of Fluvoxamine. CNS Spectrums, 6(06), 511–513. doi:10.1017/s1092852900008051 https://sci-hub.se/10.1017/s1092852900008051
5.-
Kelly, K., Posternak, M., & Jonathan, E. A. (2008). Toward achieving optimal response: Understanding and managing antidepressant side effects. Dialogues in Clinical Neuroscience, 10(4), 409-418. https://doi.org/10.31887/DCNS.2008.10.4/kkelly
6.-
Institute of Medicine (US) Subcommittee on Military Weight Management. Weight Management: State of the Science and Opportunities for Military Programs. Washington (DC): National Academies Press (US); 2004. 4, Weight-Loss and Maintenance Strategies. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK221839/
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