Trintellix (Vortioxetine) - Better Than Current Antidepressants?
Overview:
SSRI that also works on other serotonin receptors. No generic available until around 2027.
History: It was approved for Depression treatment in the United States in 2013. In 2017, it was the 312th most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than one million prescriptions.
Uses:
Trintellix (Vortioxetine) is an approved antidepressant that has also demonstrated positive effects on anxiety symptoms in subjects with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
Mechanism of Action:
Vortioxetine increases serotonin concentrations in the brain by inhibiting its reuptake in the synapse, and also modulates (activates or blocks) certain serotonin receptors. Findings are suggestive that the antidepressant effects of vortioxetine may be mediated by serotonin receptor interactions in addition to serotonin reuptake inhibition. Uncertainties remain about whether vortioxetine is indeed a clinically multimodal antidepressant or whether it is effectively "[just] another selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor".
Effectiveness:
The effectiveness is stated to be around the same as other SSRI antidepressants. May take 2 to 4 weeks until effects are felt. It may take two months or longer until the full effect is felt.
Side Effects:
nausea
diarrhea
dry mouth
constipation
vomiting
gas
dizziness
abnormal dreams
itching
decreased sexual desire
Discontinuation syndrome can occur if you don’t taper off the medication with doctor's instructions. Some serious and very bothersome side effects could occur.
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Mastering Your Mental Health: A Guide to Luvox (Fluvoxamine)
What is Luvox (Fluvoxamine)?
Luvox, also known as fluvoxamine, is a medication used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and other mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety disorders. It is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain.
History of Luvox (Fluvoxamine)
Luvox was developed by Solvay Pharmaceuticals and was approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1994 for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder in adults. It was the first medication approved by the FDA specifically for the treatment of OCD.
Mechanism of Action of Luvox (Fluvoxamine)
Luvox works by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, leading to increased levels of this neurotransmitter. This is thought to improve mood and reduce symptoms of OCD and other mental health conditions.
Evidence for Use
Luvox has been shown to be effective in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder in adults and children. In clinical trials, Luvox was found to be more effective than placebo in reducing symptoms of OCD. It has also been used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, although the evidence for these uses is less robust.
Side Effects/ Adverse Reactions/ Contradictions
Like all medications, Luvox can cause side effects. The most common side effects include nausea, headache, dizziness, and insomnia. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own. However, if you experience any severe or persistent side effects, you should contact your doctor immediately. Luvox can also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in some people, especially in children, teenagers, and young adults.
Luvox is contraindicated in patients with a hypersensitivity to fluvoxamine or any of the components of the medication. It should also be used with caution in patients with a history of mania or hypomania, seizure disorders, and bleeding disorders.
Positives or Pros of Luvox (Fluvoxamine)
Luvox is effective in treating obsessive-compulsive disorder in adults and children and has a lower risk of causing sexual side effects compared to other antidepressant medications. It may also be helpful for treating depression and anxiety disorders, although more research is needed to confirm these uses.
Negatives or Cons of Luvox (Fluvoxamine)
Luvox can cause side effects, and some people may experience withdrawal symptoms if they stop taking the medication abruptly. It may also interact with other medications, including some antidepressants and blood thinners. Additionally, Luvox is not FDA-approved for the treatment of depression or anxiety disorders, and its effectiveness for these uses is less well-established.
In conclusion, Luvox (Fluvoxamine) is an effective medication for treating obsessive-compulsive disorder in adults and children. It works by selectively inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin in the brain, leading to increased levels of this neurotransmitter. However, it can cause side effects and may not be suitable for everyone. It is important to talk to your doctor about any concerns you may have before starting Luvox or any other medication.
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