Vilazodone is a prescription medication used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD). It belongs to the class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It has a unique mechanism of action as it functions as a 5-HT1A receptor partial agonist, differentiating it from other SSRIs.

Vilazodone is available in its generic form or under the brand name Viibryd.

This medication is only available with a prescription, meaning you need a written prescription from a licensed healthcare provider to purchase it.

Vilazodone is prescribed primarily for the treatment of depression.

Depression, also known as major depressive disorder or clinical depression, is a type of mood disorder that negatively affects how you think, behave, and feel. Untreated depression can lead to a range of emotional and physical issues. Other mental conditions, such as schizophrenia and bipolar disorder, can cause depression. Symptoms of depression can make it challenging to carry out day-to-day tasks and maintain personal relationships.

Vilazodone is classified as a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor. SSRIs work by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin in our brain cells. Serotonin is a naturally occurring chemical messenger (neurotransmitter) responsible for regulating mood and helping you feel happy. Neurotransmitters send signals between your brain and neurons in the body. Once a signal has been sent, the neuron reabsorbs the serotonin to be recycled.

By blocking the reabsorption (or reuptake) of serotonin in the brain, SSRI medication allows the neurotransmitter to stay active in the brain longer. This can help balance your mood and reduce symptoms of major depressive disorder.

Vilazodone may cause some side effects.

Mild side effects reported with vilazodone use include:

• Diarrhea
  
• Nausea
  
• Vomiting
  
• Dry mouth
  
• Dizziness
  
• Headache
  
• Sleep disturbances, including insomnia
  
  

More serious side effects include:

• Seizures
  
• Fever or flu symptoms
  
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
  
• Fainting
  
• Hallucinations
  
• Memory problems
  
• Headache
  
• Skin rash
  
• Hives
  
• Swelling
  
• Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  
  

If you experience any of these side effects and they persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

Antidepressant drugs like vilazodone can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Patients taking vilazodone should be monitored for the emergence or worsening of depression, suicidal thoughts or behaviors, or unusual changes in mood or behavior.

Before using vilazodone, inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with vilazodone.

Vilazodone should not be used within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI (monoamine oxidase inhibitor) medication or within 14 days of starting an MAOI. Serious and potentially life-threatening reactions can occur when MAOIs are combined with vilazodone.

You should also tell your healthcare provider if you are taking:

Serotonergic Medications: Combining vilazodone with other serotonergic drugs, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), or triptans, may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially serious condition characterized by symptoms such as agitation, hallucinations, rapid heart rate, fever, and muscle stiffness.

Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Medications that strongly inhibit the CYP3A4 enzyme, such as ketoconazole, may increase the levels of vilazodone in the bloodstream, potentially leading to increased side effects.

CYP3A4 Inducers: Drugs that induce CYP3A4, such as rifampin, may reduce the effectiveness of vilazodone by increasing its metabolism and decreasing its levels in the body.

Alcohol: Combining alcohol with vilazodone may increase the risk of central nervous system depression and impaired cognitive and motor skills. It's advisable to limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking vilazodone.

Digoxin: Digoxin has a narrow therapeutic range, which can be increased by vilazodone.

Antiplatelet/anticoagulant Medications: Combining these medications with vilazodone can increase your risk of bleeding.

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, consult your healthcare provider before using vilazodone to weigh the potential risks and benefits.

The recommended vilazodone dosage will vary depending on the patient's age and the severity of the condition being treated. It is typically taken as an oral tablet with food.

The recommended starting dose of vilazodone for the treatment of MDD is typically 10 mg once daily. Your healthcare provider may adjust your dosage after several days based on your response to the medication.

Do not discontinue or increase your vilazodone dosage without consulting your doctor first.

Take the medication exactly as prescribed, and inform your doctor if you begin to experience any side effects while taking the medication.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your regularly scheduled amount. Do not take a double dose of vilazodone.

Vilazodone is currently only available via prescription. A licensed healthcare provider must authorize the use of this drug.

Looking for a prescription? Providers on Sesame can write you a prescription during a virtual or in-person visit. You can arrange for same-day pickup at your pharmacy, depending on the medication. Book an online consultation with a licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not vilazodone might be right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider. Sesame cannot guarantee that you will be provided a prescription after a video or in-person appointment. Providers on Sesame are unable to prescribe controlled substances.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription for vilazodone to be picked up near you—often within the same day. Don’t wait to get your prescription filled. Talk to a provider on Sesame and get your prescription ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your doctor.