Viibryd Addiction and Abuse

Vilazodone is the generic name for the antidepressant Viibryd. Viibryd is in a class of antidepressants called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and is used to treat most forms of major depressive disorder (MDD).

Vilazodone is meant to regulate the secretion of neurotransmitters that cause depression, primarily serotonin. By restoring the natural amount of serotonin, the effects of vilazodone are used to improve one’s mood, appetite, sleep and alertness, which helps treat MDD symptoms.

Vilazodone typically takes a few weeks before noticing the effects, but some reports from patients had shown several months before vilazodone effects took place.

Take the required dosage as prescribed, never reduce or exceed the dosage without first consulting a doctor as it could potentially lead to withdrawal symptoms and severe side effects. One must carefully follow instructions off the prescription label, as well as the directions a doctor provides.

Vilazodone is taken orally as a tablet and is prescribed in dosage amounts of 10 mg, 20 mg or 40 mg per day, although doctors will periodically raise or lower the dosage depending on how Viibryd affects the patient. The initial dose of Viibryd is usually 10 mg per day for seven days; then the dosage is increased to 20 mg per day. The maintenance dose for vilazodone is 40 mg. Most doctors will advise taking vilazodone with food.

If a Vilazodone dose is missed, it may be okay to take the dose once remembered, depending on how close it is until the next dosage cycle. It is recommended to skip the dose if it is close to the next cycle to avoid side effects from overuse. Never use alcohol while taking vilazodone.

Viibryd may cause side effects during the first few weeks of treatment due to the unfamiliar reactions. These side effects differ between people and normally subside as the body adjusts to Viibryd.

Some of the more common side effects of Viibryd are dizziness, nausea, diarrhea, problems sleeping (insomnia) and dry mouth. Some of the less common side effects are vomiting, blurred vision, decreased sexual drive, headaches, drowsiness, decreased appetite, weakness and gastrointestinal discomfort (stomach pains). If someone notices a persistence in these side effects, contact a doctor.

Taking Viibryd may also increase suicidal thoughts.

It is not uncommon for a person to overuse vilazodone due to the amount of time it takes to show results. Taking more than the prescribed dosage may lead serious side effects and overdose.
Immediately contact a doctor or 911 if any signs of overdose occur. Signs of overdose for Viibryd are hallucinations, seizures, irregular heartbeat, severe headaches coupled with mental confusion, high fever and fainting.
It is common for Viibryd to have withdrawal symptoms after long-term use. Speak with a doctor to find out ways to lessen the severity of withdrawal symptoms.

When someone is nearing the end of MDD treatment with vilazodone, a doctor will begin to gradually lower the dosage. This utilizes the tapering method to avoid any serious withdrawal symptoms.

Always discuss a plan with a doctor when quitting antidepressants. If someone feels they no longer need to take vilazodone, it is important never to stop abruptly. Sudden stoppage leads to devastating withdrawal that can make long-term recovery difficult.