What are possible side effects of Luvox in children?

You should be aware of the following possible side effects if your child takes Luvox (fluvoxamine), a drug that is prescribed to treat obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) in children ages 8 to 17:

• sudden or severe changes in mood, actions or behavior. Luvox belongs to a category of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which work by adjusting the level of the chemical serotonin in the brain. In studies of children, teens and young adults, about 4% of those who took an SSRI experienced suicidal thoughts or actions, compared to about 2% who took a placebo, or "sugar pill." Watch your child for signs of worsening depression, behaving aggressively or impulsively, agitation, restlessness, panic attacks or other changes in mental status.
• symptoms of serotonin syndrome (a potentially life-threatening condition caused by too-high levels of serotonin), including hallucinations, loss of consciousness, agitation, muscle twitching or stiffness, racing heartbeat, high or low blood pressure, sweating, fever, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• symptoms of allergic reaction, including trouble breathing, rash or hives, joint pain or swelling of the face, tongue, eyes or mouth
• symptoms of heart problems, including chest pain, fast or slow heartbeat, difficulty breathing, dizziness or fainting
• unusual bleeding or bruising
• seizures or convulsions
• changes in appetite or weight. Your child's doctor may monitor your child's weight and height closely to make sure Luvox is not causing changes in normal growth.
• signs of low sodium levels in the blood including headache, weakness or feeling unsteady, mental confusion or memory problems
• agitation or increase in activity
• excessive gas
• heavy menstrual periods
• rash

Luvox may also interact with other medications and dietary and herbal supplements. Before your child takes Luvox, give the doctor a list of all medicines (prescription and nonprescription), supplements and herbal remedies he takes. Once treatment with Luvox begins, do not let your child take any new medication or supplement without checking with his doctor first. Make sure your child takes Luvox exactly as the doctor instructs and does not take more or less or take it more or less frequently than recommended.