Is fluvoxamine like Xanax? (+3 differences)

In this article, we will provide a comparison between two medications, fluvoxamine and Xanax (alprazolam). We will discuss their differences by comparing their mechanisms of action, side effect profiles, FDA-approved indications, and other differences.

Is fluvoxamine like Xanax?

No, fluvoxamine is not like Xanax. Fluvoxamine and Xanax (alprazolam) are different drugs with different mechanisms of action, indications, and drug profiles.

Both fluvoxamine and Xanax are prescription medications and should only be used if prescribed by a healthcare professional. Therefore, you should not combine these medications by yourself. You should not take these medications individually or in combination without the recommendation of your healthcare provider.

What are the key differences between fluvoxamine and Xanax?

Fluvoxamine and Xanax have the following key differences:

FDA-approved clinical uses

Fluvoxamine is an antidepressant belonging to the class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Fluvoxamine is indicated for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). OCD is associated with mood disturbances such as obsession and compulsion. (1)

Xanax (alprazolam) is a psychotropic medication that belongs to the class of benzodiazepines. It is indicated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of panic disorder and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults. (2)

Mechanisms of action

Fluvoxamine works by blocking serotonin transporters (SERT). It is known to be a potent inhibitor, which results in an increase in the concentration of the serotonin neurotransmitter in the brain. Increased levels of serotonin help maintain mental balance.

The mechanism of action of Xanax (alprazolam) is associated with its ability to bind to the GABA-A receptor. Its binding site is situated in the middle of the alpha-1 and gamma-2 subunits. (3)

The binding of Xanax with the alpha-1 subunit results in an anti-anxiety and sedative effect, while the gamma-2 subunit results in muscle relaxation and anxiolytic effects. Coupling with the GABA-A receptor results in the soothing or inhibitory effects of alprazolam on the CNS (central nervous system).

Side effects

The side effects associated with fluvoxamine and Xanax are listed below:

It is to be noted that not all individuals experience similar adverse events. The possibility of experiencing side effects depends on individual characteristics as well as the condition the drug is being indicated for.

Addiction potential

Fluvoxamine is not included in the category of controlled substances and, therefore, does not have addiction potential. It can be used long-term for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

There is a moderate potential for addiction in the case of Xanax (alprazolam). The abuse of Xanax may lead to physical or psychological dependence. It is a Schedule IV substance. It has a lower risk of abuse than the initial three classes. The risk of addiction does not allow healthcare providers to use Xanax for long-term cases. (2)

Withdrawal symptoms

Patients may experience withdrawal symptoms with fluvoxamine. Fluvoxamine affects brain chemistry by altering the levels of neurotransmitters. It is to be noted that withdrawal symptoms vary from individual to individual. Most of the time the withdrawal symptoms are mild and alleviate on their own. (4)

The withdrawal symptoms of Xanax are more severe and include rebound anxiety, memory loss, impaired vision, involuntary movements, panic episodes, twitching of the muscles, sleeplessness, and even potentially fatal conditions including seizures, hallucinations, mania, and suicidality. Abrupt termination of medication or a rapid reduction in dose might exacerbate withdrawal symptoms. (2,3,5)

How do you choose between fluvoxamine and Xanax?

The choice of the drug depends on various factors, including diagnosis, allergic reactions, and treatment duration.

Diagnosis

After a proper diagnosis, the healthcare provider will make the decision regarding what medication should be used. In cases where a person is diagnosed with OCD, the healthcare provider may prescribe fluvoxamine, but in cases where a person is diagnosed with panic disorder or GAD, the physician may choose Xanax.

Use for long-term or short-term

The choice of drug also depends on the length of treatment. This is analysed by the healthcare provider on a case-by-case basis. Therefore, the healthcare provider will assess the tolerability, addiction potential, and withdrawal of the drugs and then make an informed decision.

If both fluvoxamine and Xanax are not good for the patient, the doctor may choose another drug option within the same class for the treatment.

Can you take fluvoxamine and Xanax together?

You may take fluvoxamine and Xanax together if your healthcare provider prescribes them. Fluvoxamine is known to increase the plasma concentration of Xanax, resulting in enhanced effects of Xanax. This could result in the production of side effects associated with Xanax as well as increase the potential for addiction.

The healthcare provider should be consulted if the following symptoms are experienced:

• Extreme drowsiness
• Confusion
• Muscle weakness
• Loss of coordination
• Lightheadedness
• Fainting

In case there is a requirement to administer these drugs together, the healthcare provider may switch to Xanax with an alternative option or reduce the dose of Xanax.

Conclusion

According to my research and experience, fluvoxamine and Xanax may be given together if it is required. Proper monitoring and adjustments in terms of dosage should be made for the patient’s comfort.

You should be vigilant and report any unusual symptoms you encounter to your healthcare provider immediately.

References