Vilazodone (viibryd)

No. Vilazodone is not a controlled substance. It is not known for being addictive when taken as prescribed by a clinician. Do not stop taking it suddenly without medical guidance, since that can cause uncomfortable symptoms.

Vilazodone primarily affects serotonin. It is classified as an SSRI with buspirone-like 5-HT1A activity, which together may help regulate mood in people with depression.

Most SSRIs, such as Prozac, Zoloft, and Lexapro, work by blocking the reuptake of serotonin, allowing more of the neurotransmitter to remain active in the brain. Viibryd does this as well but also partially stimulates the serotonin 5-HT1A receptor, similar to how the anti-anxiety medication buspirone works. This dual action may help regulate mood and anxiety more effectively for some patients. It may also lead to fewer sexual side effects compared to traditional SSRIs, although individual results vary.

Both target serotonin. Lexapro (escitalopram) is an SSRI, while Viibryd (vilazodone) is an SSRI with additional 5-HT1A activity. In comparisons of efficacy, Lexapro has been found to potentially alleviate depression symptoms more effectively and quickly than Viibryd, although individual responses to medication can vary.

Your clinician will consider your symptoms, side effect history, and other medications when recommending one over the other.

Viibryd (vilazodone) and Trintellix (vortioxetine) both affect serotonin beyond the typical SSRI mechanism but through different receptor actions for each. Neither medication is approved for use in pediatric patients. Individual response and tolerability vary, so a clinician’s prescription can depend on your history and treatment goals.

Yes. Zoloft (sertraline) is a traditional SSRI, while Viibryd combines SSRI effects with 5-HT1A activity. Either may be prescribed based on prior response and side effect considerations.

Some people notice early changes within a couple of weeks, but fuller benefits often take several weeks. Keep taking it as prescribed and check in regularly with your clinician.

Commonly reported effects can include nausea, diarrhea, trouble sleeping, or headache. For some individuals, many side effects are mild and improve with time. Contact your clinician if symptoms are severe or persistent.

Clinical studies suggest Viibryd is weight-neutral compared with some other antidepressants. Some patients may gain a small amount of weight, while others may lose weight or remain stable. Weight changes can depend on individual factors such as metabolism, diet, activity level, and whether depression itself was affecting appetite before treatment.

Sexual side effects can occur with many antidepressants. Vilazodone (Viibryd) can cause sexual side effects, including decreased sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and problems with orgasm. However, studies indicate that vilazodone has a lower incidence of sexual dysfunction compared to many other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) antidepressants. If you notice changes in desire, arousal, or orgasm, let your clinician know. There are strategies to address these side effects, including timing changes or considering alternatives.

Try to avoid alcohol while on vilazodone, as it can significantly worsen side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and impaired concentration, and may even lead to serious central nervous system (CNS) depression. Alcohol can also interfere with the effectiveness of the medication and potentially exacerbate depression symptoms. Also, vilazodone may cause alcohol to feel more intoxicating than usual, with an associated increase in danger of alcohol use.

Until you know how vilazodone affects you, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery. If you feel sleepy, dizzy, or mentally foggy, wait until you feel fully alert.

Consult your prescribing clinician before starting, stopping, or combining any medications or substances with vilazodone. Certain drugs that affect serotonin or cause sedation can raise the risk of side effects. Share a full list of every medication you take with your clinician.

Do not stop abruptly. According to a 2024 study, one in six to seven patients (~15%) who abruptly discontinue their antidepressant medication experience discontinuation or withdrawal symptoms. Always follow your psychiatric provider’s directions on when to stop taking medications or change dosages.

Vilazodone is approved for adults. Its safety and effectiveness for children and adolescents have not been established.

The cost of vilazodone varies depending on whether you receive the generic or the brand-name version, Viibryd.

• Generic vilazodone: As of publication date, oral tablets (10 mg, 20 mg, or 40 mg) start at about $78.66 for 30 tablets.
• Brand-name Viibryd: As of publication date, oral tablets (10 mg, 20 mg, or 40 mg) start at about $364.27 for 30 tablets.

If you have insurance, your out-of-pocket cost will depend on your supporting diagnosis and plan type (e.g., commercial, Medicare, Medicaid) and may include a copay or coinsurance.