What Is Vilazodone?

Vilazodone is a prescription drug that is used to treat severe depression. This strong antidepressant works with the serotonin levels within the brain, leveling these chemicals to a normal, tolerable level. As with any other type of medication, there are side effects when this drug is taken, some of which can be very serious. There are also instances of when vilazodone will not be recommended for use, such as when specific medical conditions exist within the person experiencing symptoms of severe depression.

Finding effective antidepressants can be difficult when the case is severe, which is why vilazodone was introduced for use. It is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor that allows more space to stay formed between the nerves of the brain. This causes the chemicals within the brain to level out, effectively helping with depression symptoms and problems. Depression has been shown to simply be a defect within the brain, so by controlling the levels of chemicals that flow through it, vilazodone is able to work with the serotonin to stop the medical condition from causing problems within the afflicted person.

The side effects of vilazodone can be many, and some of them can even be very serious, but few people ever experience any effects that cause enough of a negative effect to prevent it from being used. The most common problems associated with this antidepressant are diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and insomnia. These can be alleviated, or even prevented in most cases if the drug is taken at the proper times and with plenty of water. It is also a good idea to take them before eating, so that the food ingested can help digest them.

Several pre-existing medical conditions can make vilazodone an antidepressant that cannot be given, and for women, some must be discussed with a physician before taking them. Women who are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or are breast feeding must talk to the medical provider before using this medication. People with liver disease, heart disease, bipolar disorder, allergies, suicidal tendencies, or that use excess amounts of alcohol cannot take vilazodone because of the conflicting chemical changes that will occur.

Depressive disorders are medical conditions that involve chemical levels within the brain not functioning properly. In severe cases of depression, vilazodone can effectively level the serotonin levels. This pill can come in various different strengths, and is taken orally once a day. If insomnia becomes a problem, they can be taken in the morning, and vice versa. Once a schedule is set, this antidepressant must be taken at the same time everyday to ensure that the chemicals from it stay within the body.