Qelbree (viloxazine) is a non-stimulant medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children (6 years and older), adolescents, and adults. It offers an alternative to traditional stimulant medications like Adderall and Ritalin. While effective for managing ADHD symptoms such as hyperactivity and impulsivity, Qelbree, like any medication, has potential side effects. This article provides a comprehensive overview of Qelbree's side effects, including its impact on weight, to help individuals make informed decisions about their treatment.
What is Qelbree?
Qelbree is classified as a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). Its mechanism of action involves increasing norepinephrine levels in the brain. Norepinephrine is a naturally produced chemical in the brain that plays a role in attention and focus. By preventing brain cells (neurons) from reabsorbing norepinephrine, Qelbree makes more of it available for use in the brain, which can help relieve symptoms of ADHD.
Originally developed as an antidepressant, viloxazine was first used in Europe and the United Kingdom in 1970 to treat depression. Qelbree is not a controlled substance and does not carry the same risk of misuse, addiction, or sudden cardiac death as stimulant medications.
Qelbree viloxazine hydrochloride extended-release capsules can be recognized by the imprint "SPN 200" on them. The capsules can be swallowed whole or opened and sprinkled onto foods like applesauce for those who have difficulty swallowing pills.
Common Side Effects of Qelbree
In clinical trials submitted to the FDA, Qelbree has demonstrated effectiveness in managing ADHD symptoms in pediatric, adolescent, and adult patients. The occurrence of side effects and tolerability was similar across all patient groups. However, it's important to be aware of potential side effects. Not everyone who takes Qelbree will experience them, and their severity can vary.
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Common Side Effects in Adults
The most common Qelbree side effects reported by adults include:
Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep is a frequently reported side effect. If insomnia persists or worsens, consult your healthcare provider, as sleep deprivation can exacerbate ADHD symptoms.
Sleepiness and Tiredness: Somnolence (sleepiness) and fatigue are also common, particularly when starting Qelbree or adjusting the dosage. Exercise caution when engaging in activities requiring alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how Qelbree affects you.
Nausea: Some individuals experience nausea or stomach discomfort when taking Qelbree. Taking the medication with food may help alleviate this symptom, which often improves with continued use.
Headache: Headaches can occur as the body adjusts to Qelbree. Inform your healthcare provider if headaches persist or impair your ability to function.
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Dry Mouth: Dry mouth is a commonly reported side effect. Staying well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help relieve this symptom.
Decreased Appetite: Qelbree can cause a reduction in appetite, potentially leading to decreased calorie intake. This side effect may contribute to weight management benefits or problems for some individuals.
Constipation: Adults taking Qelbree may experience constipation, in addition to other gastrointestinal issues like nausea and decreased appetite. Constipation can also occur when discontinuing Qelbree treatment.
Worsened Anxiety: While Qelbree is designed to minimize the risk of increasing anxiety symptoms, some individuals have reported heightened anxiety as a side effect. If you experience increased anxiety while taking Qelbree, contact your healthcare provider for possible dosage adjustments or alternative medications.
Upper Respiratory Tract Infection: Some people taking Qelbree have experienced symptoms consistent with respiratory infections, such as sore throat, nasal congestion, or runny nose. These symptoms are typically mild to moderate.
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Common Side Effects in Children and Adolescents (Ages 6-17)
The most common side effects of Qelbree in children and teens aged 6 to 17 include:
- Sleepiness and tiredness
- Vomiting
- Irritability
- Decreased appetite
- Nausea
- Trouble sleeping
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Qelbree Side Effects for Children (6-17) | Qelbree Side Effects for Adults (18+) |
|---|---|
| Sleepiness | Sleepiness |
| Feeling Tired | Feeling Tired |
| Vomiting | Constipation |
| Nausea | Nausea |
| Decreased Appetite | Decreased Appetite |
| Trouble Sleeping | Insomnia/Trouble Sleeping |
| Irritability | Headache |
| Dry Mouth |
Serious Side Effects of Qelbree
In addition to the common side effects, Qelbree carries the risk of more serious side effects, which require immediate medical attention.
Increased Blood Pressure and Heart Rate: Qelbree can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure in some individuals. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is crucial, especially for those with pre-existing high blood pressure or heart conditions.
Irritability and/or Manic Episodes: Qelbree may cause mood and behavior fluctuations, including heightened irritability or manic episodes, particularly in individuals with bipolar disorder. Symptoms of a manic episode include:
- Significantly increased energy
- Racing thoughts
- Unusually grand ideas
- Talking more or faster than usual
- Significant trouble sleeping
- Reckless behavior
- Feeling excessively happy or irritable
Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors: Like many antidepressant medications, Qelbree carries a boxed warning for suicidal thoughts and behaviors. In studies, a small percentage of children and adults treated with Qelbree reported suicidal thoughts, behaviors, or both. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience thoughts of death, suicide, or self-harm.
Qelbree and Weight Loss
Qelbree can cause decreased appetite and nausea, which may lead to weight loss in some individuals. In short-term studies, children ages 12 to 17 years who took Qelbree lost a small amount of weight. For comparison, children of the same age who took a placebo (a treatment with no active drug) gained weight. In these studies, children ages 6 to 12 years who took Qelbree didn’t gain as much weight as children who took a placebo.
It’s not known if Qelbree can affect weight and growth in children who take it for long periods of time. Children who take Qelbree should have their weight regularly checked by their doctor. If the child isn’t gaining weight as would be expected for their age, their doctor may recommend they stop Qelbree and try a different ADHD treatment.
Duration of Side Effects
The duration of Qelbree side effects varies from person to person. Some side effects may be more pronounced when first starting the medication and gradually improve or disappear with continued use as the body adjusts. However, not all side effects follow this pattern. If you experience persistent or concerning side effects, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.
What to Discuss with Your Doctor
Before starting Qelbree, discuss the following with your doctor:
- Your medical history, including any existing health conditions, such as high blood pressure, heart problems, kidney problems, or mental health conditions.
- Any medications, supplements, or herbal products you are currently taking, as potential drug interactions can occur.
- Any history of allergic reactions to medications.
- If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Qelbree Drug Interactions
Certain medications can interact with Qelbree, altering its effects or increasing the risk of side effects. These include:
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Qelbree should not be taken within 14 days of taking an MAOI, as the interaction can cause life-threatening complications.
- Sensitive CYP1A2 substrates or CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic range: The active ingredient in Qelbree inhibits the enzyme CYP1A2, which can affect the metabolism of certain medications.
Qelbree vs. Common ADHD Medications: Side Effects Comparison
| Medication | Medication Type | FDA Uses | Common Side Effects | Risk of Addiction |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Qelbree (viloxazine) | Non-stimulant medication | Treatment of ADHD in adults and kids 6 years and older | Insomnia, sleepiness or tiredness, nausea, dry mouth, headache, decreased appetite, vomiting, and constipation. | It’s not a controlled substance, so it has no risk of addiction, dependence, or abuse. |
| Adderall (amphetamine/dextroamphetamine) | Stimulant | Treatment of ADHD | Standard-release Adderall: stomachache, reduced appetite, fast heartbeat, and nervousness. Adderall XR: dry mouth, loss of appetite, trouble sleeping, headache, weight loss, nausea, anxiety, agitation, dizziness, fast heartbeat, diarrhea, weakness, and urinary tract infections (UTIs). | All forms of Adderall are Schedule II controlled substances. They have an FDA boxed warning for the risk of abuse, misuse, and addiction. |
| Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine) | Stimulant | Treatment of ADHD and binge-eating disorder | Loss of appetite (anorexia), anxiety, weight loss, diarrhea, dizziness, dry mouth, irritability, trouble sleeping, nausea, stomach pain, and vomiting. | As a Schedule II controlled substance, Vyvanse has a risk of dependence and abuse. |
| Ritalin (methylphenidate) | Central nervous system (CNS) stimulant | Treatment of ADHD in adults and children 6 years and older and narcolepsy | Fast or abnormal heartbeat (palpitations), headache, trouble sleeping, nervousness, increased sweating, decreased appetite, dry mouth, nausea, and stomach pain. | Ritalin has a high risk of addiction and abuse. |
| Strattera (atomoxetine) | SNRI | Treatment of ADHD | Abdominal pain, vomiting, nausea, decreased appetite, headache, drowsiness, irritability, anorexia, constipation, dizziness, and rash. | Strattera has a low risk of abuse and addiction. |
| Intuniv (guanfacine) | Nonstimulant selective alpha2A-adrenergic | Treatment of ADHD | Sedation, somnolence (drowsiness), nausea, abdominal pain, low blood pressure, lethargy, headache, and dizziness. | Intuniv isn’t a controlled substance and doesn’t have a high risk of addiction, dependence, or abuse. |
Benefits of Using Qelbree for ADHD
Qelbree has demonstrated effectiveness in improving the lives of individuals with ADHD by addressing key symptoms such as:
- Improved Focus: Enhancing the ability to concentrate and maintain attention.
- Enhanced Impulse Control: Facilitating better control over impulses.
- Reduced Hyperactivity: Decreasing hyperactive behaviors.
The benefits of Qelbree can vary among individuals.