WARNING

Vilazodone is an antidepressant medication used to treat major depressive disorder in adults. As with any medication, there are potential risks and side effects associated with Vilazodone. It’s essential to note that individual responses to medications can vary, and not everyone will experience the same effects. Here are some common risks and side effects associated with Vilazodone:

• Suicidal Thoughts or Behavior: Antidepressants, including Vilazodone, may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior, especially in young adults and adolescents. Close monitoring by healthcare professionals is important, especially during the initial weeks of treatment.
• Serotonin Syndrome: Vilazodone affects serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin syndrome is a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when there is an excess of serotonin. Symptoms may include agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, fever, muscle stiffness, and coordination problems.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Vilazodone, which can include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing. Seek immediate medical attention if you notice any of these symptoms.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Abruptly stopping Vilazodone can lead to withdrawal symptoms. It is important to taper off the medication under the guidance of a healthcare professional to minimize the risk of withdrawal effects.
• Hyponatremia: Vilazodone may cause low levels of sodium in the blood, leading to symptoms such as headache, weakness, confusion, and seizures.
• Activation of Mania/Hypomania: Vilazodone may trigger manic or hypomanic episodes in individuals with bipolar disorder.
• Gastrointestinal Effects: Common side effects of Vilazodone include diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain.

It’s crucial to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider before starting or discontinuing Vilazodone. They can provide personalized information based on your medical history and help monitor for any adverse effects during treatment. Never stop taking antidepressant medications without consulting your healthcare provider, as doing so abruptly may lead to withdrawal symptoms or a recurrence of depressive symptoms.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Vilazodone is prescribed primarily for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. Major depressive disorder is a common and serious mood disorder characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or pleasure in daily activities. Vilazodone is classified as an antidepressant and is believed to work by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter associated with mood regulation, in the brain.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines on how Vilazodone is typically used:

• Dosage: The usual starting dose of Vilazodone is 10 milligrams (mg) once daily, taken with food. After one week, the dose is often increased to 20 mg once daily.
• Administration: Vilazodone should be taken with food to enhance absorption. It is usually taken in the morning or evening, as directed by the healthcare provider.
• Adjustments: Dosage adjustments may be made by the healthcare provider based on the individual’s response to treatment and any observed side effects. The maximum recommended dose is 40 mg daily.
• Duration of Treatment: The duration of Vilazodone treatment varies based on the severity of the depressive symptoms and the individual’s response to the medication. It’s important to continue taking Vilazodone as prescribed, even if improvements are noticed, to prevent a relapse of depressive symptoms.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments with a healthcare provider are essential to monitor the effectiveness of Vilazodone and address any emerging side effects or concerns. Close monitoring is especially crucial during the early weeks of treatment.
• Discontinuation: Vilazodone should not be stopped abruptly without consulting a healthcare professional, as this can lead to withdrawal symptoms. If discontinuation is necessary, a gradual tapering of the dose is typically recommended.

It’s crucial for individuals prescribed Vilazodone to follow their healthcare provider’s instructions carefully and to communicate openly about any concerns or side effects. The information provided here is a general overview, and specific recommendations may vary based on individual medical histories and circumstances. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance regarding the use of Vilazodone or any other medication.

Other uses for this medicine

Vilazodone is primarily prescribed for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. It is not typically used for other conditions, as its efficacy and safety for other purposes have not been well-established. Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations and use the medication only as prescribed.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Vilazodone, it’s important to consider the following:

• Suicidal Thoughts and Behavior: Like many antidepressants, Vilazodone carries a black box warning regarding the increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults. Close monitoring, especially during the initial weeks of treatment, is crucial.
• Serotonin Syndrome: Vilazodone affects serotonin levels, and the use of other medications that increase serotonin, as well as certain recreational drugs, can lead to serotonin syndrome. Symptoms include agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, fever, muscle stiffness, and coordination problems. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications and substances you are using.
• Allergic Reactions: Seek medical attention immediately if you experience signs of an allergic reaction to Vilazodone, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Hyponatremia: Vilazodone may cause low levels of sodium in the blood (hyponatremia), leading to symptoms such as headache, weakness, confusion, and seizures.
• Mania/Hypomania Activation: Vilazodone may trigger manic or hypomanic episodes in individuals with bipolar disorder. Your healthcare provider should be aware of any history of bipolar disorder or mania.
• Withdrawal Symptoms: Abruptly stopping Vilazodone can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Tapering off the medication under the guidance of a healthcare professional is important.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Inform your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, as the safety of Vilazodone in these situations is not well-established.
• Medical Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider about any medical conditions you have, especially liver or kidney problems, as dosage adjustments may be necessary.
• Alcohol and Substance Use: Limit alcohol consumption while taking Vilazodone, as alcohol can interact with the medication. Additionally, inform your healthcare provider about any substance use.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Vilazodone may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

It’s essential to have open and honest communication with your healthcare provider, providing a complete medical history and discussing any concerns or side effects you may experience. This allows for personalized care and adjustments to the treatment plan if necessary.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Vilazodone should be taken with food to enhance absorption. Taking it without food may lead to decreased drug absorption.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Vilazodone, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

If you frequently forget doses, consider setting a routine or using reminders to help you remember. Consistent and regular dosing is important for the effectiveness of the medication.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Vilazodone, like any medication, can cause side effects. It’s important to note that not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. Common side effects of Vilazodone include:

• Nausea: This is one of the most common side effects and may occur particularly during the early stages of treatment. Taking Vilazodone with food can help alleviate nausea.
• Diarrhea: Some individuals may experience diarrhea as a side effect. Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet may help manage this symptom.
• Dry Mouth: Vilazodone may cause dry mouth. Staying hydrated and using sugar-free gum or candies can help alleviate this side effect.
• Insomnia or Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep may occur in some individuals. Taking Vilazodone in the morning or adjusting the timing in consultation with your healthcare provider might help.
• Dizziness: Vilazodone can cause dizziness, especially when standing up quickly. It’s essential to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position.
• Blurred Vision: Some people may experience blurred vision as a side effect. If this occurs, it’s important to let your healthcare provider know.
• Sexual Dysfunction: Antidepressants, including Vilazodone, can sometimes cause sexual side effects such as decreased libido or difficulty achieving orgasm. Discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider.
• Sweating: Increased sweating, including night sweats, has been reported as a side effect of Vilazodone.
• Weight Changes: Changes in weight, both weight gain and weight loss, have been reported in individuals taking Vilazodone.
• Serotonin Syndrome: While rare, this is a serious potential side effect that can occur when there is an excess of serotonin. Symptoms may include agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, fever, muscle stiffness, and coordination problems. Seek medical attention if you experience these symptoms.

It’s crucial to report any side effects to your healthcare provider, even if they seem mild. They can provide guidance on managing side effects or adjust your treatment plan if necessary. Additionally, if you experience severe or unusual side effects, seek immediate medical attention. This list is not exhaustive, and individual responses to Vilazodone may vary. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized information based on your medical history and current health status.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Vilazodone:

• Storage: Keep Vilazodone in its original container at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Avoid storing it in the bathroom. Follow any specific storage instructions provided by your pharmacist or healthcare provider.
• Keep Out of Reach of Children and Pets: Store Vilazodone in a location inaccessible to children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Disposal: Dispose of Vilazodone in accordance with local regulations or any specific disposal instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist. Do not flush medications down the toilet unless instructed to do so.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek emergency medical attention or contact your local poison control center immediately. Overdose symptoms may include:

• Seizures
• Unconsciousness
• Severe dizziness or lightheadedness
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat

What other information should I know?

• Follow Prescribed Dosage: Take Vilazodone exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not alter the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Regular Monitoring: Attend follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress and discuss any concerns or side effects.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Vilazodone, as alcohol can interact with the medication and increase the risk of side effects.
• Inform Healthcare Provider: Keep your healthcare provider informed about all medications, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, that you are taking. This helps prevent potential interactions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss this with your healthcare provider. The safety of Vilazodone during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established.
• Medical Procedures: Inform healthcare providers performing surgeries or dental procedures that you are taking Vilazodone, as it may interact with certain anesthetics.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Be cautious, as Vilazodone may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid activities that require alertness until you know how the medication affects you.
• Communication: If you have any concerns or questions about Vilazodone, discuss them openly with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your health status.

Always adhere to your healthcare provider’s instructions and seek professional guidance if you have any uncertainties or experience unexpected reactions. This information is a general guide, and individual circumstances may vary.