Does Luvox-induced nausea go away? (+3 tips)
By
Dr Drielli Vital-Fujii (PhD)
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
In this article, we are going to discuss whether or not Luvox-induced nausea fades away, how Luvox induces nausea, research results linking Luvox to nausea, what to do if Luvox-induced nausea persists, and tips for coping with Luvox-induced nausea.
Does Luvox-induced nausea go away?
Yes, Luvox-induced nausea does go away with time for most individuals. Nausea is one of the most common side effects of Luvox. Luvox is the brand name of the medication fluvoxamine, an antidepressant belonging to the class of drugs known as the SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors). (1)
The nausea side effect appears a few days after starting Luvox and goes away a few weeks later. Studies have shown that 29% of patients taking fluvoxamine (Luvox) experienced nausea as a side effect. (2)
Consult your healthcare provider if the nausea worsens or lasts longer than expected. They might be able to change your medication or suggest other helpful alternatives.
How does Luvox induce nausea?
The mechanism of action of Luvox in affecting the serotonin levels in the brain and body is hypothesized to be the cause of nausea. Elevations in serotonin levels can alter the digestive tract, resulting in nausea and other GI (Gastrointestinal) problems. (3)
Furthermore, Lucox occasionally results in appetite changes which can exacerbate nausea. While taking Luvox, certain patients may experience other GI problems such as diarrhea, constipation, or stomach pain.
It’s crucial to remember that not everyone who takes Luvox experiences nausea; in fact, this is frequently a transient side effect that gets better with time.
What does research suggest?
A study was carried out to assess the features of fluvoxamine-induced nausea (Luvox). This study examined the relationship between fluvoxamine and nausea from a number of angles.
The percentage of patients who had nausea from fluvoxamine was 29%. Regarding sex, age, the starting and maximum fluvoxamine doses, and fluvoxamine’s plasma concentrations, as well as the clinical reaction to fluvoxamine, no statistically significant differences were seen between the patients with and without nausea.
The incidence of nausea in patients who received fluvoxamine at a dose lower than 50mg per day experienced less nausea than patients who received a dose higher than 50mg per day.
The study came to the conclusion that fluvoxamine-induced nausea is linked to the activation of serotonergic neurons. (4)
What factors can induce nausea when taking Luvox?
There are several factors that can induce nausea while taking Luvox such as: (5), (6)
Medication dose and timing: High Luvox doses can induce nausea while taking the medication. Additionally, taking Luvox on an empty stomach may induce vomiting in certain individuals.
Genetics: Individuals with variations in the MAO-A gene (Mono-Amine-Oxidase A) may be more susceptible to nausea while taking Luvox.
Underlying medical conditions: Individuals with certain medical conditions such as gastrointestinal diseases like peptic ulcers, liver failure, bulimia nervosa, and appendicitis are more prone to experience nausea while taking Luvox.
Concurrent medications: Certain medications and therapies such as chemotherapy, opioids, and NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) can induce nausea while taking Luvox. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about any medications that you take to avoid possible drug interactions and side effects.
Lifestyle factors: Alcohol, tobacco, and lack of exercise can induce nausea while taking Luvox.
What should you do if Luvox-induced nausea persists?
If Luvox-induced nausea persists, consult your healthcare provider about reducing your medication dose or switching to an alternative with fewer gastrointestinal adverse effects such as:
Mirtazapine: An atypical antidepressant that was shown effective in treating depression with fewer gastrointestinal side effects. (7)
Other SSRIs: Citalopram, fluoxetine, duloxetine, or bupropion can be used instead of Luvox and may have fewer gastrointestinal side effects. (7)
What are some coping strategies for Luvox-induced nausea?
There are several coping strategies that can manage and reduce Luvox-induced nausea, some of which include: (8), (9)
- Take Luvox with food, this can help reduce nausea.
- Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water throughout the day, this can help avoid constipation and can relieve nauseous feelings.
- Steer clear of alcohol, alcohol can exacerbate nausea while taking Luvox.
- Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking. Certain medications such as chemotherapy, opioids, and iron supplements can exacerbate nausea.
- Consult your physician about boosting your Luvox dosage gradually. It is possible to reduce the chance of Luvox’s adverse effects and let your body adjust to the drug by starting Luvox with a low dose and then gradually increasing it.
- Your healthcare provider might be able to recommend anti-nauseous medications such as meclizine or bismuth subsalicylate to help reduce Luvox-induced nausea.
Conclusion
Based on my knowledge and research, Luvox-induced nausea goes away with time after a few weeks of starting the medication. However, if nausea persists for longer than 4 weeks, consult your healthcare provider about reducing your dose or switching to an alternative with fewer adverse effects.
Was this helpful?
References
1.-
Fluvoxamine: MedlinePlus Drug Information [Internet]. medlineplus.gov. Available from: https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a695004.html#:~:text=Fluvoxamine%20is%20used%20to%20treat,that%20interferes%20with%20normal%20life).
2.-
Ueda N, Yoshimura R, Shinkai K, Terao T, Nakamura J. Characteristics of fluvoxamine-induced nausea. Psychiatry Research. 2001 Nov;104(3):259–64. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11728615/
3.-
LUVOX® (Fluvoxamine Maleate) Tablets 25 mg, 50 mg and 100 mg Suicidality and Antidepressant Drugs [Internet]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2007/021519lbl.pdf
4.-
Ueda N, Yoshimura R, Shinkai K, Terao T, Nakamura J. Characteristics of fluvoxamine-induced nausea. Psychiatry Research. 2001 Nov;104(3):259–64. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11728615/
5.-
Nausea and vomiting Causes [Internet]. Mayo Clinic. 2018. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/nausea/basics/causes/sym-20050736
6.-
Yoshida K, Naito S, Takahashi H, Sato K, Ito K, Kamata M, et al. Monoamine Oxidase A Gene Polymorphism, 5-HT2A Receptor Gene Polymorphism and Incidence of Nausea Induced by Fluvoxamine. Neuropsychobiology. 2003;48(1):10–3. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12886034/
7.-
Gastrointestinal side effects associated with antidepressant treatments in patients with major depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Progress in Neuro-Psychopharmacology and Biological Psychiatry [Internet]. 2021 Jul 13;109:110266. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33549697/
8.-
Coping With Chemotherapy and Nausea [Internet]. WebMD. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/cancer/coping-with-nausea-breast-cancer
9.-
Segal D. What to Know About Antiemetics for Nausea [Internet]. WebMD. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/what-to-know-about-antiemetics-for-nausea
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