Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.
Key takeaways
Fluvoxamine and Prozac (generic name: fluoxetine) are both selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) but are used for different conditions. Fluvoxamine is primarily used to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and is available only in generic form. Prozac, on the other hand, is used to treat a wider range of conditions, including major depressive disorder (MDD), OCD, bulimia, panic disorder, depression from bipolar 1 disorder, and treatment-resistant depression. Fluvoxamine is typically taken once or twice daily, while Prozac can be taken daily or weekly, depending on the form. Both medications can cause side effects like nausea and sleep problems, but fluvoxamine is more likely to cause side effects such as diarrhea and has a higher risk of drug interactions. Prozac is less likely to cause weight gain compared to other SSRIs and is available in both brand and generic forms. Both medications require a prescription and should not be stopped suddenly to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Fluvoxamine
Fluoxetine (Prozac)
Fluvoxamine
Fluoxetine (Prozac)
Summary of Luvox vs. Prozac
Summary for SSRI
Prescription only
Fluvoxamine maleate is an SSRI, or a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. It's approved to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in people ages 8 years and up. Fluvoxamine comes as immediate-release tablets taken by mouth once or twice a day. For adults, it also comes as extended-release capsules taken once a day. Your specific dosage depends on which form you're taking. Side effects include nausea, sleepiness or trouble sleeping, and headache. Fluvoxamine is a generic medication; the brand name Luvox is no longer available.