WARNING

Viloxazine is primarily used as an antidepressant in some countries, although it may not be widely available or approved in others. It’s important to note that information about medications can change, and new developments may have occurred since last update. As with any medication, there are potential risks and side effects associated with viloxazine. Common side effects may include drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, and dry mouth. However, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized information based on your medical history and individual circumstances.

Additionally, some general risks associated with antidepressant medications like viloxazine include:

• Allergic reactions: Some individuals may be allergic to the medication, leading to symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Serotonin syndrome: This is a potentially serious condition that can occur when there is an excess of serotonin in the body. Symptoms may include agitation, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, fever, muscle stiffness, and coordination problems.
• Suicidal thoughts: In some cases, antidepressants can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in young adults. Close monitoring is often necessary, particularly when starting or changing the dosage of the medication.
• Interaction with other medications: Viloxazine may interact with other medications or substances, potentially leading to adverse effects. It’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and substances you are taking.
• Withdrawal symptoms: Abruptly stopping the medication may lead to withdrawal symptoms. Tapering off under the guidance of a healthcare professional is generally recommended.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance regarding medication use, and communicate any concerns or side effects promptly. Since this information is based on available data, it is recommend checking with a healthcare professional or reliable medical source for the most current information about viloxazine or any other medication.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Viloxazine is primarily prescribed as an antidepressant. It belongs to a class of medications known as serotonin–norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). The exact mechanism of action of viloxazine is not fully understood, but it is believed to increase the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain by inhibiting their reuptake. Viloxazine has been used to treat major depressive disorder and is sometimes prescribed for other conditions such as anxiety disorders.

How should this medicine be used?

General Guidelines for Using Viloxazine:

• Dosage: The recommended dosage of viloxazine can vary depending on the specific condition being treated, the individual’s response to the medication, and other factors. Follow the dosage prescribed by your healthcare provider.
• Administration: Viloxazine is usually taken orally with or without food. It’s important to take it consistently, either with meals or without meals, as advised by your healthcare provider.
• Consistency:Take viloxazine at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your system.
• Swallow Whole: Swallow the tablet(s) whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets unless directed by your healthcare provider.
• Duration of Treatment: Continue taking viloxazine for the duration prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you start to feel better. Suddenly stopping the medication may lead to withdrawal symptoms or a return of your symptoms.
• Follow-up Appointments: Attend regular follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your progress, discuss any side effects, and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
• Missed Dose: If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Overdose: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe side effects, seek immediate medical attention. Contact your local poison control center or emergency room for assistance.
• Alcohol and Other Substances: Limit or avoid the consumption of alcohol and other substances that may interact with viloxazine. Discuss with your healthcare provider any potential interactions.
• Gradual Discontinuation: If your healthcare provider decides to discontinue viloxazine, they will typically provide guidance on gradually reducing the dosage to minimize withdrawal symptoms.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and inform them of any concerns or changes in your health. If you experience any unexpected or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly. The information here is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Other uses for this medicine

Viloxazine is primarily used as an antidepressant, and its use for other medical conditions is limited. Always follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations regarding the appropriate use of viloxazine.

What special precautions should I follow?

When taking viloxazine, it’s important to follow specific precautions to ensure the safe and effective use of the medication. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice, but here are some general precautions to consider:

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any allergies, pre-existing conditions, and a history of seizures.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using viloxazine with your healthcare provider. It’s important to weigh the potential benefits to the mother against the potential risks to the fetus or nursing infant.
• Liver or Kidney Problems: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any history of liver or kidney problems. Viloxazine may require dosage adjustments in individuals with impaired liver or kidney function.
• Seizure Disorders: Viloxazine should be used with caution in individuals with a history of seizures. Consult your healthcare provider for appropriate monitoring and adjustments if necessary.
• Alcohol and Substance Use: Discuss with your healthcare provider the use of alcohol and other substances while taking viloxazine. These substances may interact with the medication and affect its efficacy or increase the risk of side effects.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Viloxazine may cause dizziness or drowsiness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Other Medications and Supplements: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with viloxazine. Certain medications, including monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), may pose a risk of serious interactions with viloxazine.
• Regular Monitoring: Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor the effectiveness of viloxazine and to address any potential side effects or concerns.
• Allergic Reactions: If you have a known allergy to viloxazine or any of its ingredients, inform your healthcare provider immediately. Allergic reactions can be serious and may require immediate medical attention.

Always take viloxazine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly. The information provided here is not exhaustive, and individual circumstances may vary, so it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Food Interactions: Viloxazine can be taken with or without food. However, if you consistently take it with food, try to maintain a consistent diet to avoid potential interactions.
• Grapefruit Juice: Some medications can interact with grapefruit juice. Check with your healthcare provider about whether grapefruit or grapefruit juice interacts with viloxazine.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Take It as Soon as Possible: If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do Not Double Dose: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Taking extra medication may increase the risk of side effects.
• Set a Reminder: Consider setting a daily reminder or using a pill organizer to help you remember your doses.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Viloxazine is a medication used primarily as an antidepressant. Like all medications, it can cause side effects. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary from person to person. It’s essential to discuss any concerns or potential side effects with your healthcare provider. Common side effects of viloxazine may include:

• Nausea and Vomiting: Some people may experience nausea or vomiting when taking viloxazine.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Viloxazine can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly. It’s important to rise slowly from a sitting or lying position.
• Insomnia or Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty sleeping or changes in sleep patterns may occur.
• Dry Mouth: Viloxazine can cause dry mouth. Staying hydrated and using sugar-free gum or candies may help alleviate this symptom.
• Changes in Appetite: Some individuals may experience changes in appetite, including increased or decreased appetite.
• Constipation: Viloxazine may cause constipation in some individuals.
• Sweating: Increased sweating may occur as a side effect.
• Weight Changes: Changes in weight, either gain or loss, can occur.
• Sexual Dysfunction: Some people may experience sexual side effects, such as decreased libido or difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection.
• Blurred Vision: Viloxazine may cause blurred vision in some individuals.

It’s important to note that serious side effects are possible, although they are less common. If you experience any unusual or severe symptoms, it’s crucial to contact your healthcare provider promptly. Additionally, each person’s response to medication is unique, and your healthcare provider will consider your individual health status and history when prescribing viloxazine.

This list is not exhaustive, and it’s crucial to consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for a comprehensive understanding of potential side effects based on your specific health condition and other medications you may be taking. If you experience any unexpected or severe side effects, seek medical attention promptly.

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

Storage and Disposal of Viloxazine:

• Storage:
  • Keep viloxazine in its original packaging and store it at room temperature, away from excessive heat and moisture.
  • Do not freeze or expose the medication to extreme temperatures.
  • Keep viloxazine out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of unused or expired viloxazine according to local guidelines and regulations.
  • Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless specifically instructed to do so.
  • Check with your pharmacist or local waste disposal facility for proper disposal methods, such as using a medication take-back program.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Attention: In case of overdose or emergency, seek immediate medical attention. Call your local poison control center or emergency room for guidance.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Overdose symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, seizures, or unconsciousness.

What other information should I know?

• Medical History: Inform your healthcare provider about your complete medical history, including any allergies, pre-existing conditions, and current medications.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of using viloxazine with your healthcare provider.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with viloxazine.
• Alcohol and Other Substances: Discuss with your healthcare provider the use of alcohol and other substances while taking viloxazine, as they may interact with the medication.
• Regular Check-ups: Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor the effectiveness of viloxazine and to address any potential side effects.

Always follow the advice and instructions provided by your healthcare professional or pharmacist. If you have specific questions or concerns about viloxazine, consult with your healthcare provider for personalized information and guidance.