Vilazodone interactions. Vilazodone (Viibryd): Uses, Interactions, and Important Information

14.03.202316.07.2023 by alexxlab

What is vilazodone used to treat. How should vilazodone be taken. What are the potential side effects of vilazodone. What precautions should be taken when using vilazodone. How does vilazodone interact with other medications.

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Understanding Vilazodone: A Comprehensive Overview

Vilazodone, marketed under the brand name Viibryd, is an antidepressant medication primarily used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). Available in tablet form with strengths of 10 mg, 20 mg, and 40 mg, this medication works by affecting brain chemistry to alleviate symptoms of depression.

What is Major Depressive Disorder?

Major depressive disorder is characterized by a persistent feeling of sadness, hopelessness, and loss of interest in daily activities. Symptoms may include:

Depressed mood – feeling sad, empty, or tearful
Feelings of worthlessness, guilt, or helplessness
Changes in sleep and eating patterns
Low energy and difficulty concentrating
Thoughts of death or suicide
Psychomotor agitation or retardation

The Mechanism of Action: How Vilazodone Works

Vilazodone belongs to a class of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) with additional 5-HT1A partial agonist activity. This dual mechanism of action sets it apart from other antidepressants.

How does vilazodone affect brain chemistry?

Vilazodone increases the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation, in the brain. It does this by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and partially activating certain serotonin receptors. This unique action may contribute to its effectiveness in treating depression.

Proper Usage and Dosage Guidelines

To ensure optimal results and minimize side effects, it’s crucial to follow the prescribed dosage and administration instructions for vilazodone.

What is the recommended dosage for vilazodone?

The typical starting dose is 10 mg once daily, which is usually increased to 20 mg after 7 days. The maximum recommended dose is 40 mg daily. Your healthcare provider will determine the most appropriate dosage based on your individual needs and response to the medication.

Vilazodone should be taken with food to enhance its absorption. Consistency in timing and food intake can help maintain steady levels of the medication in your system.

Potential Side Effects and Risks

As with any medication, vilazodone may cause side effects. While not everyone experiences these, it’s important to be aware of potential adverse reactions.

What are the common side effects of vilazodone?

Common side effects may include:

Diarrhea
Nausea
Vomiting
Insomnia
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Sexual dysfunction

Most side effects tend to be mild and may diminish over time as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if side effects persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

Are there any serious risks associated with vilazodone?

While rare, serious side effects can occur. These may include:

Serotonin syndrome
Increased risk of suicidal thoughts in young adults
Abnormal bleeding
Hyponatremia (low sodium levels)

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as agitation, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, fever, muscle stiffness, or severe nausea and vomiting.

Vilazodone and Pregnancy: Important Considerations

The use of vilazodone during pregnancy requires careful consideration of the potential risks and benefits.

Can vilazodone be used during pregnancy?

Limited data is available on the use of vilazodone during pregnancy. The decision to use this medication while pregnant should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, weighing the potential risks to the fetus against the benefits of treating depression in the mother.

Untreated depression during pregnancy can also pose risks to both the mother and the developing fetus. Your healthcare provider can help you make an informed decision based on your individual circumstances.

Is it safe to breastfeed while taking vilazodone?

Vilazodone does pass into breast milk. Caution is advised for breastfeeding mothers. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for you and your baby.

Drug Interactions and Precautions

Vilazodone can interact with various medications and substances, potentially affecting its efficacy or increasing the risk of side effects.

What medications may interact with vilazodone?

Vilazodone may interact with:

Other antidepressants, particularly MAOIs
Triptans used for migraine treatment
Certain pain medications
Some anticonvulsants
St. John’s Wort

Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking to avoid potential interactions.

Should alcohol be avoided while taking vilazodone?

It is generally recommended to avoid alcohol while taking vilazodone. Alcohol can worsen depression symptoms and may increase the risk of certain side effects. Additionally, it can interfere with the effectiveness of the medication.

Managing Vilazodone Treatment: Tips and Best Practices

Proper management of vilazodone treatment can help maximize its benefits and minimize potential risks.

How can I remember to take vilazodone regularly?

Consistency is key when taking vilazodone. Consider these strategies to help you remember your daily dose:

Use a pill organizer or calendar
Set a daily alarm on your phone or watch
Associate taking the medication with a daily routine, like breakfast
Ask a family member or friend to remind you

What should I do if I miss a dose of vilazodone?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to the time for your next scheduled dose. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you’re unsure, consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for guidance.

Monitoring and Follow-up: Ensuring Effective Treatment

Regular monitoring and follow-up are essential components of successful vilazodone treatment.

How often should I follow up with my healthcare provider?

Initially, you may need to see your healthcare provider more frequently to assess your response to the medication and adjust the dosage if necessary. Once stabilized, follow-up visits may be less frequent, but regular check-ins are still important.

What signs should prompt me to contact my healthcare provider?

Contact your healthcare provider if you experience:

Worsening depression symptoms
Suicidal thoughts
Severe or persistent side effects
Significant changes in mood or behavior
New physical symptoms

Open communication with your healthcare provider is crucial for optimal management of your depression and vilazodone treatment.

Long-term Use and Discontinuation of Vilazodone

Understanding the long-term aspects of vilazodone treatment is important for patients and caregivers alike.

How long will I need to take vilazodone?

The duration of vilazodone treatment varies depending on individual circumstances. Some people may need to take it for several months or even years. Your healthcare provider will assess your progress and discuss the appropriate duration of treatment with you.

Can vilazodone be stopped abruptly?

Abrupt discontinuation of vilazodone is not recommended as it may lead to withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, nausea, dizziness, and headaches. If you and your healthcare provider decide to stop vilazodone, a gradual tapering of the dose is typically recommended to minimize withdrawal effects.

Remember, never stop taking vilazodone or adjust your dose without consulting your healthcare provider first.

Alternative Treatments and Complementary Therapies

While vilazodone can be an effective treatment for depression, it’s not the only option available. Understanding alternative and complementary treatments can provide a more comprehensive approach to managing depression.

What other treatments are available for depression?

Other treatment options for depression may include:

Other types of antidepressants (e.g., SSRIs, SNRIs)
Psychotherapy (talk therapy)
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
Electroconvulsive Therapy (ECT) for severe cases
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

Can lifestyle changes help manage depression alongside medication?

Yes, certain lifestyle changes can complement medication in managing depression:

Regular exercise
Healthy diet
Adequate sleep
Stress reduction techniques (e.g., meditation, yoga)
Social support and connection

Incorporating these lifestyle changes alongside vilazodone treatment may enhance overall treatment effectiveness and improve quality of life.

Patient Experiences and Support

Understanding the experiences of others who have used vilazodone can provide valuable insights and support for those considering or currently using this medication.

Where can I find support groups or communities for people taking vilazodone?

Support groups and communities can be found through:

Mental health organizations like NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Illness)
Online forums and discussion boards
Local community health centers
Social media groups focused on depression and mental health

Remember that while shared experiences can be helpful, individual responses to medication can vary. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized medical advice.

How can I share my experience with vilazodone to help others?

If you feel comfortable sharing your experience, consider:

Participating in online forums or support groups
Sharing your story with mental health advocacy organizations
Discussing your experience with your healthcare provider, who may use it to help other patients

Sharing experiences can help reduce stigma and provide valuable information to others, but always prioritize your privacy and comfort level.

Research and Future Developments

Staying informed about ongoing research and potential future developments in depression treatment can provide hope and context for those using vilazodone.

What current research is being conducted on vilazodone?

Current research areas for vilazodone include:

Long-term efficacy and safety studies
Potential use in other mental health conditions
Comparisons with other antidepressants
Genetic factors influencing response to vilazodone

Are there new treatments for depression on the horizon?

Emerging areas in depression treatment research include:

Novel antidepressant mechanisms
Personalized medicine approaches
Ketamine and related compounds
Psychedelic-assisted therapies
Advanced neuromodulation techniques

While these areas show promise, it’s important to remember that new treatments must undergo rigorous testing before becoming widely available. Your healthcare provider can keep you informed about new developments that may be relevant to your treatment.

Vilazodone (Viibryd) | NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness

Generic name: vilazodone (vil AZ oh done)

Brand name: Viibryd®

Tablets: 10 mg, 20 mg, 40 mg

All FDA black box warnings are at the end of this fact sheet. Please review before taking this medication.

What Is Vilazodone And What Does It Treat?

Vilazodone is an antidepressant medication that works in the brain. It is approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD).

Symptoms of depression include:

Depressed mood – feeling sad, empty, or tearful

Feeling worthless, guilty, hopeless, and helpless

Loss of interest or pleasure in your usual activities

Sleep and eat more or less than usual (for most people it is less)

Low energy, trouble concentrating, or thoughts of death (suicidal thinking)

Psychomotor agitation (‘nervous energy’)

Psychomotor retardation (feeling like you are moving and thinking in slow motion)

Suicidal thoughts or behaviors

What Is The Most Important Information I Should Know About Vilazodone?

Do not stop taking vilazodone, even when you feel better. With input from you, your health care provider will assess how long you will need to take the medicine.

Missing doses of vilazodone may increase your risk for relapse in your symptoms.

Stopping vilazodone abruptly may result in one or more of the following withdrawal symptoms: irritability, nausea, feeling dizzy, vomiting, nightmares, headache, and/or paresthesias (prickling, tingling sensation on the skin).

Depression is also a part of bipolar illness. People with bipolar disorder who take antidepressants may be at risk for “switching” from depression into mania. Symptoms of mania include “high” or irritable mood, very high self-esteem, decreased need for sleep, pressure to keep talking, racing thoughts, being easily distracted, frequently involved in activities with a large risk for bad consequences (for example, excessive buying sprees).

Medical attention should be sought if serotonin syndrome is suspected. Please refer to serious side effects for signs/symptoms.

Are There Specific Concerns About Vilazodone And Pregnancy?

If you are planning on becoming pregnant, notify your health care provider to best manage your medications. People living with MDD who wish to become pregnant face important decisions. Untreated MDD has risks to the fetus, as well as the mother. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of treatment with your doctor and caregivers.

Caution is advised with breastfeeding since vilazodone does pass into breast milk.

What Should I Discuss With My Health Care Provider Before Taking Vilazodone?

Symptoms of your condition that bother you the most

If you have thoughts of suicide or harming yourself

Medications you have taken in the past for your condition, whether they were effective or caused any adverse effects

If you experience side effects from your medications, discuss them with your provider. Some side effects may pass with time, but others may require changes in the medication.

Any other psychiatric or medical problems you have, including a history of bipolar disorder

All other medications you are currently taking (including over the counter products, herbal and nutritional supplements) and any medication allergies you have

Other non-medication treatment you are receiving, such as talk therapy or substance abuse treatment. Your provider can explain how these different treatments work with the medication.

If you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding

If you drink alcohol or use drugs

How Should I Take Vilazodone?

Vilazodone is usually taken one time per day with food or milk.

Typically patients begin at a low dose of medicine and the dose is increased slowly over several weeks.

The dose usually ranges from 20 mg to 40 mg. Only your health care provider can determine the correct dose for you.

Consider using a calendar, pillbox, alarm clock, or cell phone alert to help you remember to take your medication. You may also ask a family member or friend to remind you or check in with you to be sure you are taking your medication.

What Happens If I Miss A Dose Of Vilazodone?

If you miss a dose of vilazodone, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is closer to the time of your next dose. Discuss this with your health care provider. Do not double your next dose or take more than what is prescribed.

What Should I Avoid While Taking Vilazodone?

Avoid drinking alcohol or using illegal drugs while you are taking antidepressant medications. They may decrease the benefits (e.g., worsen your condition) and increase adverse effects (e.g., sedation) of the medication.

What Happens If I Overdose With Vilazodone?

If an overdose occurs, call your doctor or 911. You may need urgent medical care. You may also contact the poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

A specific treatment to reverse the effects of vilazodone does not exist.

What Are The Possible Side Effects Of Vilazodone?

Common side effects

Diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, dry mouth, dizziness, insomnia

Rare/serious side effects

Night sweats, decreased appetite, migraine headaches, sleepiness, tremor, blurry vision, dry eyes, abnormal dreams, agitation, restlessness, increased urination, sexual dysfunction, angle closure glaucoma (symptoms of angle closure glaucoma may include eye pain, changes in vision, swelling or redness in or around eye), Serotonin syndrome (symptoms may include shivering, diarrhea, confusion, severe muscle tightness, fever, seizures, and death), palpitations, irregular heartbeat

Vilazodone may increase the risk of bleeding events. Combined use of aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), warfarin, and other anti-coagulants may increase this risk. This may include gums that bleed more easily, nose bleed, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Some cases have been life threatening.

Are There Any Risks For Taking Vilazodone For Long Periods Of Time?

To date, there are no known problems associated with long term use of vilazodone. It is a safe and effective medication when used as directed.

What Other Medications May Interact With Vilazodone?

Vilazodone should not be taken with or within 2 weeks of taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs). These include phenelzine (Nardil®), tranylcypromine (Parnate®), isocarboxazid (Marplan®), rasagiline (Azalect®) and selegiline (Emsam®).

Although rare, there is an increased risk of serotonin syndrome when vilazodone is used with other medications that increase serotonin, such as other antidepressants, migraine medications called “triptans” (e. g., Imitrex®), some pain medications (e.g., tramadol (Ultram®), and the antibiotic linezolid (Zyvox®).

The following medications may increase the levels and effects of vilazodone requiring decreased dose of vilazodone:

Antibiotics, such as clarithromycin (Biaxin®), erythromycin (Ery-Tab®), and telithromycin (Ketek®)

Antifungals, such as fluconazole (Diflucan®), ketoconazole (Nizoral®), and itraconazole (Sporanox®)

Blood pressure medications, such as verapamil (Calan®, Covera-HS®, Isoptin SR®) and diltiazem (Cardizem®, Tiazac®)

HIV medications such as protease inhibitors: indinavir (Crixivan®), ritonavir (Norvir®), saquinavir (Fortovase®, Invirase®), and lopinavir/ritonavir (Kaletra®)

Nefazodone

The following medications may decrease the levels and effects of vilazodone requiring increased dose of vilazodone: carbamazepine (Tegretol®), oxcarbazepine (Trileptal®), rifampin (Rifadin®), phenytoin (Dilantin®), and phenobarbital

How Long Does It Take For Vilazodone To Work?

Sleep, energy, or appetite may show some improvement within the first 1-2 weeks. Improvement in these physical symptoms can be an important early signal that the medication is working. Depressed mood and lack of interest in activities may need up to 6-8 weeks to fully improve.

Summary of FDA Black Box Warnings

Suicidal thoughts or actions in children and adults

Depression and certain other psychiatric disorders are themselves associated with increases in the risk of suicide. Patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), both adult and pediatric, may experience worsening of their depression and/or the emergence of suicidal ideation and behavior (suicidality) or unusual changes in behavior, whether or not they are taking antidepressant medications. This risk may persist until significant remission occurs.

In short-term studies, antidepressants increased the risk of suicidality in children, adolescents, and young adults when compared to placebo. Short-term studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidality with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults beyond age 24. Adults age 65 and older taking antidepressants have a decreased risk of suicidality. Patients, their families, and caregivers should be alert to the emergence of anxiety, restlessness, irritability, aggressiveness and insomnia. If these symptoms emerge, they should be reported to the patient’s prescriber or health care professional. All patients being treated with antidepressants for any indication should watch for and notify their health care provider for worsening symptoms, suicidality and unusual changes in behavior, especially during the first few months of treatment.

Provided by

(January 2023)

©2020 The American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists (AAPP) and the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). AAPP and NAMI make this document available under the Creative Commons Attribution-No Derivatives 4.0 International License. Last Updated: January 2016.

This information is being provided as a community outreach effort of the American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists. This information is for educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. This information contains a summary of important points and is not an exhaustive review of information about the medication. Always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified medical professional with any questions you may have regarding medications or medical conditions. Never delay seeking professional medical advice or disregard medical professional advice as a result of any information provided herein. The American Association of Psychiatric Pharmacists disclaims any and all liability alleged as a result of the information provided herein.

Vilazodone Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Warnings:

Antidepressant medications are used to treat a variety of conditions, including depression and other mental/mood disorders. These medications can help prevent suicidal thoughts/attempts and provide other important benefits. However, studies have shown that a small number of people (especially people younger than 25) who take antidepressants for any condition may experience worsening depression, other mental/mood symptoms, or suicidal thoughts/attempts. It is very important to talk with the doctor about the risks and benefits of antidepressant medication (especially for people younger than 25), even if treatment is not for a mental/mood condition.

Tell the doctor right away if you notice worsening depression/other psychiatric conditions, unusual behavior changes (including possible suicidal thoughts/attempts), or other mental/mood changes (including new/worsening anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, irritability, hostile/angry feelings, impulsive actions, severe restlessness, very rapid speech). Be especially watchful for these symptoms when a new antidepressant is started or when the dose is changed.

Warnings:

Uses

Vilazodone is used to treat depression. It is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) and partial serotonin receptor agonist. It works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances in the brain (neurotransmitters such as serotonin). This medication may improve your mood, sleep, appetite, and energy level and may help restore your interest in daily living.

How to use Vilazodone 40 Mg Tablet Antidepressant Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhib. (Ssris)

Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before you start taking vilazodone and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Take this medication by mouth with food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily. The dosage is based on your medical condition, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking. Be sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

To reduce your risk of side effects, your doctor may start you at a low dose and gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully. Do not take more or less medication or take it more often than prescribed. Your condition will not improve any faster and your risk of side effects will increase.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day.

If you suddenly stop using this medication, you may have withdrawal symptoms (such as mood swings, headache, tiredness, sleep changes, ringing in the ears, seizures, numbness/tingling, “shock-like” feelings). To help prevent withdrawal, your doctor may lower your dose slowly. Withdrawal is more likely if you have used vilazodone for a long time or in high doses. Tell your doctor or pharmacist right away if you have withdrawal.

Tell your doctor if your condition lasts or gets worse.

Side Effects

Precautions

Before taking vilazodone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: personal or family history of bipolar/manic-depressive disorder, personal or family history of suicide attempts, intestinal ulcers/bleeding (peptic ulcer disease), seizures, personal or family history of glaucoma (angle-closure type).

This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Avoid alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially bleeding. They are also more likely to develop a salt imbalance (hyponatremia), especially if they are also taking “water pills” (diuretics) with this medication. Salt imbalance can increase the risk of falling.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. It may harm an unborn baby. Also, babies born to mothers who have used this drug during the last 3 months of pregnancy may rarely develop withdrawal symptoms such as feeding/breathing difficulties, seizures, muscle stiffness, or constant crying. If you notice any of these symptoms in your newborn, tell the doctor promptly.

Since untreated mental/mood problems (such as depression) can be a serious condition, do not stop taking this medication unless directed by your doctor. If you are planning pregnancy, become pregnant, or think you may be pregnant, immediately discuss with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medication during pregnancy.

It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Some products that may interact with this drug are: other drugs that can cause bleeding/bruising (including antiplatelet drugs such as clopidogrel, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen/naproxen, “blood thinners” such as dabigatran/warfarin).

Aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding when used with this medication. However, if your doctor has directed you to take low-dose aspirin for heart attack or stroke prevention (usually 81-162 milligrams a day), you should continue taking it unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.

Taking MAO inhibitors with this medication may cause a serious (possibly fatal) drug interaction. Avoid taking MAO inhibitors (isocarboxazid, linezolid, metaxalone, methylene blue, moclobemide, phenelzine, procarbazine, rasagiline, safinamide, selegiline, tranylcypromine) during treatment with this medication. Most MAO inhibitors should also not be taken for two weeks before and after treatment with this medication. Ask your doctor when to start or stop taking this medication.

The risk of serotonin syndrome/toxicity increases if you are also taking other drugs that increase serotonin. Examples include street drugs such as MDMA/”ecstasy,” St. John’s wort, certain antidepressants (including other SSRIs such as fluoxetine/paroxetine, SNRIs such as duloxetine/venlafaxine), tryptophan, among others. The risk of serotonin syndrome/toxicity may be more likely when you start or increase the dose of these drugs.

This medication may interfere with certain medical/lab tests (such as brain scan for Parkinson’s disease), possibly causing false test results. Make sure lab personnel and all your doctors know you use this drug.

Does Vilazodone 40 Mg Tablet Antidepressant Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhib. (Ssris) interact with other drugs you are taking?

Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.

Do not share this medication with others.

Keep all regular medical and psychiatric appointments. Medical/psychiatric check-ups should be done periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.