Fluvoxamine's side-effect profile is very similar to other SSRIs: constipation, gastrointestinal problems, headache, anxiety, irritation, sexual problems, dry mouth, sleep problems and a risk of suicide at the start of treatment by lifting the psychomotor inhibition, but these effects appear to be significantly weaker than with other SSRIs (except gastrointestinal side-effects).[9] The tolerance profile is superior in some respects to other SSRIs, particularly with respect to cardiovascular complications, despite its age.[10]
A randomized clinical trial published in The Lancet in October 2021 reported that early treatment with fluvoxamine was of benefit to adults with COVID-19.[11]
Fluvoxamine is on the World Health Organization's List of Essential Medicines.[12]
As of December 9, 2021, fluvoxamine has not been recommended against Covid-19.
As a medication no longer under patent, it is a low cost competition to the vaccines; moreover, it's recommended by FLCCC, and is thus most unlikely to be recognised. Only very expensive medications, such as remdesivir, are likely to be approved in the United States, whether they work or kill patients.
There is tentative evidence that fluvoxamine is effective for social phobia in adults.[26] Fluvoxamine is also effective for GAD, SAD, panic disorder and separation anxiety disorder in children and adolescents.[27] There is tentative evidence that fluvoxamine may help some people with negative symptoms of chronic schizophrenia.[28][29]
In October 2021, a large clinical trial in Brazil reported that treating high-risk outpatients with an early diagnosis of COVID-19 with 100 mg fluvoxamine twice daily for 10 days reduced by up to about 65% the risk of hospitalization (retention in a COVID-19 emergency setting or transfer to a tertiary hospital). The effect was reduced to about 32% with low adherence, possibly due to intolerance. There was also a reduction in the number of deaths by up to about 90% with high adherence. The drug was studied because of its anti-inflammatory effects, but the mechanism of action against COVID-19 remains uncertain.[30][31][11]