Viloxazine
Depression
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Viloxazine
Summary
Viloxazine is used to treat Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults and children aged 6 years and older. It's part of a treatment plan that may also include counseling and special education.
Viloxazine is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It increases the levels of norepinephrine, a chemical in the brain, which helps improve attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity in individuals with ADHD.
Viloxazine is taken once daily, with or without food. For adults, the starting dosage is 200 mg, which can be increased weekly to a maximum of 600 mg. For children aged 6 to 11, the starting dose is 100 mg, with possible weekly increments up to 400 mg. For those aged 12 to 17, the starting dose is 200 mg, with possible weekly increments up to 400 mg.
Common side effects include drowsiness, fatigue, nausea, decreased appetite, and headaches. More serious side effects can include mood changes, irritability, insomnia, and weight changes. If you experience any of these symptoms, consult your healthcare provider.
Viloxazine should not be used with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) due to the risk of high blood pressure. It carries a warning for increased risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in children and adolescents. Patients should be monitored for changes in mood, blood pressure, and heart rate.
Indications and Purpose
How does Viloxazine work?
Viloxazine is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It increases norepinephrine levels in the brain, which helps improve attention and decrease impulsiveness and hyperactivity in individuals with ADHD.
Is Viloxazine effective?
Viloxazine's effectiveness in treating ADHD has been demonstrated in clinical trials. In studies involving children and adolescents, Viloxazine significantly reduced ADHD symptoms compared to placebo. In adults, it also showed a greater reduction in ADHD symptoms, as measured by standardized rating scales, compared to placebo.
What is Viloxazine?
Viloxazine is used to treat ADHD in children, adolescents, and adults. It works by increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain, which helps control behavior. Viloxazine is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include counseling and special education.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Viloxazine?
Viloxazine is typically used for extended periods as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for ADHD. The duration of use depends on individual response and tolerability, and should be periodically reevaluated by a healthcare provider.
How do I take Viloxazine?
Viloxazine should be taken once daily, with or without food, at the same time each day. Swallow the capsules whole, or sprinkle the contents on applesauce if swallowing is difficult. There are no specific food restrictions, but follow your healthcare provider's advice.
How long does it take for Viloxazine to start working?
Viloxazine may start to show effects within a few days, but it can take several weeks to see the full benefits. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress and adjust the dosage as needed.
How should I store Viloxazine?
Store Viloxazine at room temperature, between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C). Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Avoid storing it in the bathroom to prevent exposure to moisture.
What is the usual dose of Viloxazine?
For adults, the recommended starting dosage is 200 mg once daily, which can be increased weekly by 200 mg to a maximum of 600 mg daily, depending on response and tolerability. For children aged 6 to 11, the starting dose is 100 mg once daily, with possible weekly increments of 100 mg up to 400 mg daily. For those aged 12 to 17, the starting dose is 200 mg once daily, with possible weekly increments of 200 mg up to 400 mg daily.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take Viloxazine with other prescription drugs?
Viloxazine should not be used with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) due to the risk of hypertensive crisis. It is also a strong inhibitor of CYP1A2, which can increase the exposure of drugs metabolized by this enzyme, potentially leading to adverse effects. Consult your healthcare provider for a full list of drug interactions.
Can Viloxazine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Viloxazine is present in breast milk, but the transfer is low. The effects on the breastfed infant are unknown. Consider the benefits of breastfeeding along with the mother's need for Viloxazine and any potential adverse effects on the child. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Can Viloxazine be taken safely while pregnant?
Viloxazine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the mother. There is a pregnancy registry to monitor outcomes, but human data on fetal harm is insufficient. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss the risks and benefits if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Who should avoid taking Viloxazine?
Viloxazine carries a warning for increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially in children and adolescents. It is contraindicated with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) and certain CYP1A2 substrates. Patients should be monitored for changes in mood, blood pressure, and heart rate. Consult your healthcare provider for a comprehensive list of warnings and contraindications.
