Does Luvox-induced drowsiness go away? (+5 factors)
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 the drowsiness associated with the use of Luvox and the factors that may influence the duration of Luvox-induced drowsiness. We will also explore the management tips for Luvox-induced drowsiness if it does not get better with time.
Does Luvox-induced drowsiness go away?
Yes, Luvox-induced drowsiness goes away with time. Drowsiness is the most common side effect of Luvox that occurs in the initial course of treatment, however, it may subside on its own in the absence of any external risk factor that could prolong the duration of Luvox-induced drowsiness.
Luvox (fluvoxamine) is an antidepressant medication that works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. This helps in the management of symptoms associated with various mental disorders such as depression and anxiety. Some studies also suggest that Luvox may also affect the levels of dopamine in the brain (1).
Drowsiness with Luvox occurs initially because your body requires time to adapt to the medication’s effects. It is important not to discontinue Luvox due to the occurrence of drowsiness or any other side effects in the first few days of treatment (2).
What is the mechanism of Luvox-induced drowsiness?
The Luvox-induced drowsiness may occur due to the increased levels of serotonin in the brain potentially influencing sleep-wake cycles and contributing to drowsiness. Additionally, Levox has sedative properties which may contribute to drowsiness, especially when the medication is first initiated or the dosage is increased (4).
However, individuals react differently to medications including Levox, and what causes drowsiness in one person may not have the same effect in another.
What factors can influence the duration of Luvox-induced drowsiness?
Generally, Luvox-induced drowsiness improves as the patient adjusts to the medication. However, patient’s responses to Luvox or any medication can vary among individuals. Several factors may influence the duration of Luvox-induced drowsiness, including:
- high dosage
- age and genetics
- use of alcohol
- concurrent use of drowsiness-causing medications
- underlying health conditions
A high dose of Luvox causes severe drowsiness that may persist for a longer period of time. Healthcare professionals usually start Luvox at a minimum effective dosage to avoid unwanted side effects including drowsiness.
The duration of drowsiness associated with Luvox also increases by concomitant use of medications that also cause drowsiness, such as sedatives and benzodiazepines. Excessive consumption of alcohol also increases the risk of persistent drowsiness while taking Luvox.
Moreover, individuals with pre-existing sleep disorders such as sleep apnea, narcolepsy, and periodic limb movement disorder may have a higher likelihood of experiencing drowsiness.
Strategies to minimize and manage Luvox-induced drowsiness
Luvox-induced drowsiness is usually temporary and it subsides on its own. However, in the presence of risk factors, the duration of drowsiness caused by Luvox increases leading to persistent drowsiness that is effectively managed by following these tips:
Consult your healthcare provider
If you are experiencing persistent drowsiness with Luvox, it is important to discuss it with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on whether the side effects are likely to subside over time or if you need adjustments to the treatment plan.
Dosage adjustment
Your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage of Luvox or provide you with an alternative medication that is less likely to cause drowsiness, based on your individual needs. However, you should never discontinue Luvox without consulting your doctor, it may lead to withdrawal effects.
Pharmacological treatment
Your healthcare provider can also prescribe you an additional medication with Luvox, that is specifically designed to counteract drowsiness such as psychostimulants (3).
Change the timing of taking Luvox
Taking Luvox at night may be more suitable for some individuals. This allows the drowsiness to coincide with bedtime, potentially minimizing its impact on daily activities.
Conclusion
In conclusion, drowsiness caused by Luvox subsides over time. In my opinion, you should wait for a few days to allow your body to adjust to the medication, as the drowsiness may subside during this period. If the drowsiness persists or becomes concerning, it is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider for further guidance.
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References
1.-
Dell’Osso B, Allen A, Hollander E. Fluvoxamine: a selective serotonin re-uptake inhibitor for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2005 Dec;6(15):2727-40. doi: 10.1517/14656566.6.15.2727. PMID: 16316311. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16316311/
2.-
Silvestri, Rosalia & Pace-Schott, Edward & Gersh, Tamara & Stickgold, Robert & Salzman, Carl & Hobson, J.. (2001). Effects of Fluvoxamine and Paroxetine on Sleep Structure in Normal Subjects: A Home-Based Nightcap Evaluation During Drug Administration and Withdrawal. The Journal of clinical psychiatry. 62. 642-52. 10.4088/JCP.v62n0812.
3.-
Kelly K, Posternak M, Alpert JE. Toward achieving optimal response: understanding and managing antidepressant side effects. Dialogues Clin Neurosci. 2008;10(4):409-18. doi: 10.31887/DCNS.2008.10.4/kkelly. PMID: 19170398; PMCID: PMC3181894. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3181894/
4.-
Wilson, S & Bell, C & Coupland, N & Nutt, David. (2000). Sleep changes during long-term treatment of depression with fluvoxamine – A home-based study. Psychopharmacology. 149. 360-5. 10.1007/s002139900362.
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