What is Viibryd?
Viibryd (vilazodone hydrochloride) is a prescription medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2011 to treat depression. It’s also used off-label to treat anxiety. Viibryd is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) and works by increasing the levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate moods and emotions. Viibryd is available in tablet form and is taken once a day, usually in the evening.
How Long Does it Take for Viibryd to Work?
It usually takes several weeks for Viibryd to start working, although some people may experience relief of their symptoms within a few days. Everyone is different, so it’s important to be patient and give the medication a chance to work. It’s also important to take the medication as prescribed by your doctor and not stop taking it or adjust the dose without consulting your doctor first.
How to Increase the Effectiveness of Viibryd
In addition to taking the medication as prescribed, there are some things you can do to make the medication more effective. Regular exercise is important, as physical activity can help improve your overall mood. Eating a healthy diet can also help balance your mood and reduce anxiety. Make sure to get plenty of sleep, as lack of sleep can worsen depression and anxiety. Additionally, talk therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can be beneficial for treating anxiety and depression.
Potential Side Effects of Viibryd
Like all medications, Viibryd can cause side effects. Common side effects may include nausea, dizziness, headaches, insomnia, and drowsiness. Some people may also experience sexual side effects, such as decreased libido, difficulty achieving orgasm, and erectile dysfunction. If you experience any of these side effects, it’s important to talk to your doctor. Your doctor may be able to adjust the dose of your medication or switch you to a different medication.
When to Talk to Your Doctor
If you don’t notice any improvement in your symptoms after taking Viibryd for several weeks, it’s important to talk to your doctor. It’s possible that the medication isn’t working for you and you may need to try a different medication. Additionally, if your symptoms worsen or you develop any new symptoms, such as thoughts of suicide or self-harm, it’s important to talk to your doctor right away.
The Bottom Line
Viibryd is a prescription medication approved for the treatment of depression. It can also be used off-label to treat anxiety. It usually takes several weeks for the medication to start working, although some people may experience relief of their symptoms within a few days. It’s important to take the medication as prescribed and not stop taking it or adjust the dose without consulting your doctor. Additionally, regular exercise, a healthy diet, and talk therapy and cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) may help increase the effectiveness of the medication.