Vilazodone Hcl 20mg

Vilazodone Hcl 20mg — Uses and Benefits

Vilazodone is mainly prescribed for the treatment of depression in adults.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Treatment of major depressive disorder
• Helping improve low mood, sadness and loss of interest in daily activities
• Improving sleep, appetite and energy levels affected by depression

HOW IT WORKS

• It belongs to a class called serotonin partial agonist and reuptake inhibitor (SPARI)
• It increases the availability of serotonin, a brain chemical linked to mood regulation
• This helps restore the natural chemical balance in the brain over a few weeks of regular use

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• It is not a quick-fix or one-time pain reliever
• It is not used for anxiety alone unless prescribed by a doctor for that purpose
• It is not recommended for children below 18 years
• It should not be used without medical supervision to self-treat mood swings or stress

How to Use Vilazodone Hcl 20mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• It is usually taken once a day, preferably with food, as it improves absorption
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not crush or chew unless advised
• Try to take it at the same time every day for best results
• It may take a few weeks to feel the full benefit; do not stop early even if you feel no change
• Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may cause withdrawal symptoms

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember on the same day
• If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose
• Do not take two doses together to make up for a missed one

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep out of reach of children
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Vilazodone Hcl 20mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Nausea
• Diarrhoea
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Trouble sleeping (insomnia)

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Vomiting
• Decreased appetite
• Excessive sweating
• Sexual difficulties
• Tiredness or drowsiness

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Thoughts of self-harm or suicide, especially in young adults
• Signs of serotonin syndrome such as agitation, fast heartbeat, high fever, muscle stiffness
• Unusual bleeding or bruising
• Severe allergic reaction such as swelling of face/throat, rash, difficulty breathing
• Seizures
• Signs of low sodium such as headache, confusion, weakness

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Vilazodone Hcl 20mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This medicine is available only with a valid doctor's prescription in India.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are allergic to vilazodone or any other ingredient in the tablet
• Are currently taking, or have recently stopped, a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI)
• Have a history of severe liver disease without medical guidance

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have a history of bipolar disorder, seizures, or bleeding problems
• Have liver or kidney disease
• Are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding
• Have a history of suicidal thoughts or behaviour
• Are taking other medicines for depression, migraine, or pain

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other antidepressants such as SSRIs, SNRIs, or MAOIs
• Migraine medicines called triptans
• Blood thinners such as warfarin or aspirin
• Certain antifungal or antibiotic medicines that affect liver enzymes
• Herbal supplements like St. John's Wort

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I stop taking this medicine once I feel better?

No, stopping suddenly can cause withdrawal symptoms; your doctor will guide you on tapering off gradually.

How long does it take to work?

It may take two to four weeks of regular use to notice improvement in mood and other symptoms.

Can I drink alcohol while taking this medicine?

• It is best to avoid alcohol as it can increase drowsiness and other side effects.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.