Vilazodone
Uses of Vilazodone
Vilazodone is primarily used to manage major depressive disorder in adults. It belongs to the class of medications known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin 1A receptor partial agonists.
Side effects of Vilazodone
Nausea
Diarrhoea
Vomiting
Insomnia
Fatigue
How Vilazodone works
Vilazodone is an antidepressant medicine.
It works by increasing the levels of serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is a chemical messenger that helps regulate mood. This medicine achieves this increase in two ways. Firstly, it blocks the action of serotonin transporters, which are responsible for reabsorbing serotonin back into nerve cells. By blocking these transporters, this medicine leaves more serotonin available in the spaces between nerve cells. Secondly, this medicine also acts on serotonin 1A receptors, enhancing their action and thus further increasing the effects of serotonin. Together, these actions help to improve mood and alleviate symptoms of depression.
Certified content
Written By
BDS, MDS
Reviewed By
Bachelor of Dental Surgery
Expert Advice
Dosage Forms Available
Vilazodone is available in oral form, typically as tablets.
Age and Dose Restrictions
This medication is designed for adults and not recommended for children or adolescents.
Contraindications
Vilazodone is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to Vilazodone or any of its components. Patients taking monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs; a class of antidepressants) should not use this medicine.
Other Medications to Avoid
Vilazodone may interact with MAOIs (e.g., selegiline, linezolid), serotonergic drugs (e.g., triptans, tramadol), CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin), and CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin).
Overdose and Missed Dose
An overdose of Vilazodone may lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, and drowsiness. In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered. However, if it's close to the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
Management of Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening symptoms, please consult your doctor.
Drinking plenty of water may help manage common side effects like dry mouth and constipation.
Taking the medication with food may help reduce gastrointestinal side effects such as nausea and diarrhoea.
Use in Driving and Operating Machinery
Vilazodone may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Therefore, avoiding driving or operating heavy machinery is advised after taking this medicine.
Use in Pregnancy and Lactation
Vilazodone should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the foetus. It is not known whether Vilazodone passes into breast milk. Therefore, it is advised to consult your doctor before using during breastfeeding.
Caution in Other Conditions
Patients with a history of seizures, bipolar disorder, angle-closure glaucoma, and liver or kidney problems should use Vilazodone with caution.
Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations
Regular counselling or psychiatric sessions can help in managing the symptoms of depression.
Limiting caffeine intake can help manage symptoms of anxiety and insomnia.
Frequently asked questions
Is Vilazodone a steroid?
No, Vilazodone is not a steroid. It is an antidepressant medication that belongs to the class of Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) and is used to manage major depressive disorder in adults.
Does Vilazodone Have Any Effect on Sleep?
Yes, Vilazodone can potentially affect sleep. Some patients taking this medication may experience insomnia or abnormal dreams as side effects.
Will Vilazodone Affect Fertility?
The impact of Vilazodone on fertility is not explicitly mentioned in the research data available. However, if you have concerns about your fertility while taking this medication, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor.
Is It Safe to Take Vilazodone daily?
Vilazodone is typically prescribed for daily intake to manage major depressive disorder. However, the safety and efficacy of long-term use would depend on individual patient characteristics and should be determined by a doctor.
How Much Time Does Vilazodone Take to Work?
Patients may begin to notice improvements in their depressive symptoms within 1-2 weeks of starting Vilazodone. However, it could be 4-8 weeks before you experience the full therapeutic effects.
What Is the Best Time to Take Vilazodone?
The best time to take Vilazodone would be as recommended by your doctor. The research data suggests that it should be taken with food for optimal absorption.
Is Vilazodone Available Over the Counter, or Do l Need a Prescription?
Vilazodone is a prescription medication and is not available over the counter.
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