⚠️

Fluvoxamine + Warfarin

MAJOR — Use With Caution

FDA-documented interaction. Fluvoxamine is the SSRI most likely to increase warfarin levels (strong CYP1A2 + moderate CYP2C9 inhibition). INR monitoring essential.

Evidence level: STRONG

What this interaction means

Fluvoxamine (Luvox) can significantly increase warfarin blood levels by blocking the enzymes that break warfarin down. Additionally, all SSRIs thin the blood slightly on their own by affecting platelet function.

How it works (mechanism)

Fluvoxamine is a potent CYP1A2 inhibitor and moderate CYP2C9 inhibitor. Warfarin R-enantiomer is metabolized by CYP1A2, S-enantiomer by CYP2C9. Fluvoxamine significantly increases warfarin levels. FDA warfarin label lists SSRIs. All SSRIs also increase bleeding risk via serotonin-mediated platelet effects.

Practical advice

If you take warfarin and need an antidepressant, fluvoxamine is one of the riskiest choices. Get INR checked within a week of starting, and discuss whether a different antidepressant would be safer.

Timing

SSRIs impair platelet function, which can amplify anticoagulant effects and increase bleeding risk. Take each at their normal prescribed times. Your prescriber should monitor for signs of bleeding (bruising, dark stools, prolonged cuts). INR monitoring may be more frequent if on warfarin.

Risk factors

Higher risk for: elderly patients, those with liver disease, history of GI bleeding, concurrent use of multiple blood thinners, recent surgery, vitamin K intake changes, alcohol use, or low body weight.

Symptoms to watch for

Easy bruising, nosebleeds, blood in urine or stool, bleeding gums, prolonged bleeding from cuts

What to tell your doctor

Monitor INR closely. Consider alternative SSRIs with less CYP inhibition (sertraline, citalopram). Remember all SSRIs carry some bleeding risk via platelet effects.

Safer alternatives

Discuss this combination with your prescriber. They may adjust timing, dosing, or switch to an alternative with fewer interaction risks. Never stop an antidepressant abruptly — taper under medical guidance.

Frequently asked questions

Can I take Fluvoxamine and Warfarin together?

Fluvoxamine (Luvox) can significantly increase warfarin blood levels by blocking the enzymes that break warfarin down. Additionally, all SSRIs thin the blood slightly on their own by affecting platelet function.

When should I take Fluvoxamine vs Warfarin?

SSRIs impair platelet function, which can amplify anticoagulant effects and increase bleeding risk. Take each at their normal prescribed times. Your prescriber should monitor for signs of bleeding (bruising, dark stools, prolonged cuts). INR monitoring may be more frequent if on warfarin.

What symptoms should I watch for if I combine Fluvoxamine and Warfarin?

Easy bruising, nosebleeds, blood in urine or stool, bleeding gums, prolonged bleeding from cuts

Are there safer alternatives to combining Fluvoxamine with Warfarin?

Discuss this combination with your prescriber. They may adjust timing, dosing, or switch to an alternative with fewer interaction risks. Never stop an antidepressant abruptly — taper under medical guidance.

What should I tell my doctor about taking Fluvoxamine and Warfarin?

Monitor INR closely. Consider alternative SSRIs with less CYP inhibition (sertraline, citalopram). Remember all SSRIs carry some bleeding risk via platelet effects.

Explore more interactions

Or browse the full interaction database (121,000+ pairs).