Signs, Symptoms And Side Effects Of Viibryd (Vilazodone) Abuse

Viibryd is the brand name of the antidepressant vilazodone. Vilazodone is an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) that is used to treat major forms of depression. Viibryd blocks the reuptake of serotonin, a neurotransmitter found in the central nervous system and the bloodstream, improving one’s mood, sleep and appetite. Vilazodone may be used off-label to treat other mental and mood disorders like bipolar disorder and anxiety.

Viibryd is an SSRI, a class of antidepressants, that is used to treat major forms of depression. Vilazodone is not sold over-the-counter and can only be obtained from a prescription.

Before starting a Viibryd prescription, disclose all past medical history and previous medications to a doctor. Certain medications, like NSAIDs and other SSRI antidepressants, may cause negative interactions. Do not take any MAO inhibitors while taking Viibryd, as it has caused fatal interactions. Notify a doctor if an MAO inhibitor has been taken recently. Do not take vilazodone with alcohol.

A doctor will usually prescribe vilazodone in smaller amounts as a once a day tablet to help one’s body adjust to the chemical changes taking place. When someone starts a new dosage for vilazodone, they will usually experience minor side effects and increased suicidal thoughts, as with most antidepressants. It is important to take Viibryd exactly as prescribed to avoid serious side effects and withdrawal symptoms. Never exceed or decrease the dosage amount. Do not suddenly stop taking Viibryd, as it could lead to increased withdrawal symptoms and persistent side effects.

Most side effects from vilazodone will subside over the course of the treatment and usually do not need medical attention. It is important to monitor the severity and persistence of the following side effects so a doctor can find a plan to alleviate some of the symptoms.

Some of the more common side effects of vilazodone are:

• Diarrhea
• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness

Other side effects occasionally take place, though they are less common. These side effects are:

• Muscle pains
• Vision problems (blurred vision, decreased vision)
• Stomach cramps
• Sleep problems (insomnia, abnormal and disturbing dreams)
• Weakness
• Vomiting

Each class of antidepressants has different levels of addiction, some being much more severe than others. Vilazodone can cause serious side effects and withdrawal if the antidepressant is misused.

Substance use disorder is easy to identify. If someone is constantly concerned about taking their medication and eagerly wants it, this normally means that a person is struggling with addiction.

Developing an addiction to Viibryd is possible due to its delayed effects. It may take up to four weeks before vilazodone begins to work, which has caused some to misuse it. Exceeding the prescribed dosage may lead to an overdose.

If any of the following overdose signs occur, seek medical help immediately.

Signs of vilazodone overdose are:

• Trouble breathing
• Fainting or a feeling of passing out
• Uncontrollable impulses
• Burning or numbness in the skin
• Increased or slowed heartbeat
• Seizures

Although many side effects caused by SSRIs like vilazodone are not potentially harmful, regular misuse can cause problems like high blood pressure, which could affect someone years down the road, depending on the severity.

When someone has been taking Viibryd for a long period, it is likely withdrawal symptoms will happen. A doctor will taper the dosage to drastically reduce the severity of withdrawal. Be sure to discuss a plan with a doctor when the prescription is coming to an end.