Side Effects of viloxazine: A Synthesis of Findings from 29 Studies
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This analysis is based on research papers included in PubMed, but medical research is constantly evolving and may not fully reflect the latest findings. There may also be biases towards certain research areas.
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Major Research Findings
Viloxazine has shown similarities to imipramine in animal pharmacological studies. 19 The antidepressant effects of viloxazine were independently recognized in seven uncontrolled clinical trials and verified in 11 published standard controlled clinical studies where viloxazine in the dosage range from 150- to 300-mg dosage was equal in overall therapeutic efficacy to imipramine and amitriptyline, but produced a lower incidence of side effects. 19 Viloxazine may also be effective in treating narcolepsy. 12 Viloxazine has been shown to inhibit REM sleep, cataplexy, and other auxiliary symptoms in patients with narcolepsy. 12 Viloxazine may also be a suitable drug for treating depression in elderly patients. 13 Although viloxazine tends to reach higher plasma levels in elderly depressed patients, its effectiveness and tolerability remain good. 13
Reasons for Side Effects
The reasons for the side effects of viloxazine are likely related to its mechanism of action. Viloxazine acts as a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, which increases the concentration of the neurotransmitter norepinephrine. 5 While this action produces antidepressant effects, it can also cause side effects. 5
Common Side Effects
Gastrointestinal
Viloxazine can cause gastrointestinal side effects. 15 These include nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite. 15 21 27 14 Gastrointestinal side effects from viloxazine are more common in the early stages of treatment. 21 14 Some studies have reported cases where gastrointestinal side effects from viloxazine forced patients to discontinue treatment. 21 14 On the other hand, viloxazine has less anticholinergic action compared to tricyclic antidepressants, making it relatively safe for use in the elderly. 21
Central Nervous System
Viloxazine can cause side effects in the central nervous system. 7 These include headache, dizziness, drowsiness, and insomnia. 23 1 Central nervous system side effects from viloxazine are more common in the elderly. 1 14
Others
Viloxazine may also cause side effects such as weight gain, increased blood pressure, and rash. 15 28 26 11 Viloxazine may increase carbamazepine plasma levels when used in combination with carbamazepine, and caution is required. 10
Side Effect Management
Gastrointestinal
Dietary and medication management may be effective in reducing gastrointestinal side effects from viloxazine. 15 For example, eating smaller, more frequent meals or taking antiemetics can be considered. 15
Central Nervous System
Adjusting the dosage or combining viloxazine with other medications may be effective in reducing central nervous system side effects. 23 1 For example, if drowsiness is severe, taking the medication before bedtime or combining it with other medications to reduce drowsiness can be considered. 23 1
Research Comparison
Research Commonalities
Many studies have shown that viloxazine has similar therapeutic effects to imipramine and amitriptyline, but with a lower incidence of side effects. 19 28 21 Viloxazine is also considered relatively safe for use in the elderly. 13 21
Research Differences
Some studies have shown that viloxazine is more effective than imipramine. 28 21 There are also reports that viloxazine takes effect faster than imipramine. 28 On the other hand, there are also reports that viloxazine causes more gastrointestinal side effects than imipramine. 21
Practical Application Notes
Viloxazine shows promise in treating depression and narcolepsy, but its potential side effects should be considered. 5 Before starting viloxazine, it's crucial to consult a doctor and choose the most appropriate treatment for your condition. 5
Current Research Limitations
There is still not enough research on viloxazine. Data on long-term safety and effectiveness is particularly lacking. 5 Additionally, the mechanism of action of viloxazine is not fully understood. 5
Future Research Directions
Research on the long-term safety and effectiveness of viloxazine is needed. 5 Research into the mechanism of action of viloxazine is also crucial. 5 These studies will hopefully expand the scope of application for viloxazine and lead to the development of safer and more effective treatment methods. 5
Conclusion
Viloxazine is a promising medication for treating depression and narcolepsy. 5 However, because it can cause side effects in the gastrointestinal system and central nervous system, it's important to consult a doctor and choose the most appropriate treatment for your condition. 5 While research on viloxazine is still limited, future studies are expected to develop safer and more effective treatment methods. 5
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Article Type
Author: AltamuraA C, MelorioT, InvernizziG, ColacurcioF, GomeniR
Language : English
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Language : English
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Author: VignatelliL, D'AlessandroR, CandeliseL
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Author: LangJ P, HalleguenO, PicardA, LangJ M, DanionJ M
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Language : French
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Language : English
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Author: GuliamovM G
Language : Russian
Author: GuilleminaultC, MancusoJ, SalvaM A, HayesB, MitlerM, PoirierG, MontplaisirJ
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Author: AltamuraA C, MauriM C, GuercettiG
Language : English
Author: MaistrelloI, GrassiG, BertolinoA, ValerioP, PistollatoG, SoveriniS
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Author: NormanT R, BurrowsG D, DaviesB M, MaguireK P, WurmJ M
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Author: BanT A, McEvoyJ P, WilsonW H
Language : English
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Language : Spanish
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Author: LomasD M
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Language : German
Author: MagnusR V
Language : English
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