qelbree
Qelbree (Viloxazine Hydrochloride) is a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor used to treat Depression.
Viloxazine Hydrochloride · by Supernus Pharms
Key facts
- Active ingredient
- Viloxazine Hydrochloride
- Drug class
- Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor
- Form
- Capsule, extended release
- Strength
- Viloxazine Hydrochloride EQ 100MG Base · Viloxazine Hydrochloride EQ 150MG Base · Viloxazine Hydrochloride EQ 200MG Base
- Type
- Prescription (Rx)
- Brand or generic
- Brand-name
- May treat
- depression
- Manufacturer
- Supernus Pharms
- FDA application
- NDA211964
- FDA boxed warning
- Yes — see the boxed warning
What is Qelbree?
From the FDA label:Qelbree contains viloxazine, a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, in the form of viloxazine hydrochloride which is (±)-2-[(2-ethoxyphenoxy)methyl]morpholine hydrochloride. The molecular formula is C 13 H 20 NO 3 Cl and its molecular weight is 273.8 (HCl salt) with the following structural formula: Viloxazine hydrochloride is a white to off-white powder. Viloxazine hydrochloride is soluble in water, 0.1N HCl and aqueous solutions of pH 9.5 and lower. Viloxazine hydrochloride is sparingly soluble in methanol, very slightly soluble in acetonitrile, acetic acid and isopropyl alcohol, and practically insoluble in ethyl acetate. Qelbree extended-release capsules are intended for oral administration. Each extended-release capsule contains 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg of viloxazine free base equivalent to 115mg, 173mg, and 231mg, respectively, of viloxazine hydrochloride salt. The inactive ingredients are: Ammonium hydroxide, black iron oxide, butyl alcohol, corn starch, ethylcellulose, FD&C Blue #1, FD&C Red #28, FD&C Yellow #5, FD&C Yellow #6, FD&C Yellow #10, gelatin, hypromellose, isopropyl alcohol, lactose monohydrate, medium chain triglycerides, oleic acid, polyethylene glycol, potassium hydroxide, propylene glycol, shellac, strong ammonia solution, sucrose, talc, triacetin, titanium dioxide. Chemical Structure
How to use
Pediatric patients 6 to 11 years of age : Recommended starting dosage is 100 mg once daily. May titrate in increments of 100 mg weekly to the maximum recommended dosage of 400 mg once daily ( 2.2 ) Pediatric patients 12 to 17 years of age : Recommended starting dosage is 200 mg once daily. May titrate after 1 week, by an increment of 200mg, to the maximum recommended dosage of 400 mg once daily ( 2.2 ) Adult patients : Recommended starting dosage is 200 mg once daily. May titrate in increments of 200 mg weekly, to maximum recommended dosage of 600 mg once daily ( 2.2 ) Capsules may be swallowed whole or opened and the entire contents sprinkled onto applesauce or pudding ( 2.3 ) Severe Renal Impairment : Initial dosage is 100 mg once daily. Titrate in weekly increments of 50 mg to 100 mg to a maximum recommended dosage of 200 mg once daily ( 2.4 , 8.6 ) 2.1 Important Considerations Prior to Initiating Treatment Assess heart rate and blood pressure prior to initiating treatment with Qelbree, following increases in dosage, and periodically while on therapy [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] . Prior to initiating treatment with Qelbree, screen patients for a personal or family history of suicide, bipolar disorder, and depression [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ]. 2.2 Recommended Dosage Pediatric patients The recommended starting dosage for pediatric patients 6 to 11 years…
Side effects
The following serious adverse reactions are described in other sections of the labeling: Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Increases [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Activation of Mania or Hypomania [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] Somnolence and Fatigue [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] Most commonly observed adverse reactions (≥5% and at least twice the rate of placebo) were: Pediatric patients 6 to 17 years of age : somnolence, decreased appetite, fatigue, nausea, vomiting, insomnia, and irritability ( 6.1 ) Adult patients : insomnia, headache, somnolence, fatigue, nausea, decreased appetite, dry mouth and constipation ( 6.1 ) To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Supernus Pharmaceuticals at 1-866-398-0833 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch. 6.1 Clinical Trials Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice. The safety of Qelbree has been evaluated in 1118 pediatric patients (6 to 17 years of age) with ADHD exposed to one or more doses in short-term (6 to 8 week), randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. A total of 682 pediatric patients…
FDA Boxed Warning (the FDA’s most serious warning)
Boxed (black-box) warning — from the FDA label
In clinical studies, higher rates of suicidal thoughts and behavior were reported in patients with ADHD treated with Qelbree than in patients treated with placebo . Closely monitor all Qelbree-treated patients for clinical worsening, and for emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . WARNING: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. In clinical trials, higher rates of suicidal thoughts and behavior were reported in patients treated with Qelbree than in patients treated with placebo. Closely monitor for worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors ( 5.1 ).
Warnings
Important safety information
Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Increases: Assess heart rate and blood pressure prior to initiating treatment, following increases in dosage, and periodically while on therapy ( 5.2 ) Activation of Mania or Hypomania: Screen patients for bipolar disorder ( 5.3 ) Somnolence and Fatigue: Advise patients to use caution when driving or operating hazardous machinery due to potential somnolence (including sedation and lethargy) and fatigue ( 5.4 ) 5.1 Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors Higher rates of suicidal thoughts and behaviors were reported in pediatric and adult patients with ADHD treated with Qelbree than in patients treated with placebo. Among 1019 pediatric patients exposed to Qelbree 100 mg to 400 mg in short-term trials, a total of nine patients (0.9%) reported suicidal ideation (N=6), behavior (N=1) or both (N=2). Eight patients reported suicidal ideation or behavior on the Columbia Suicide Severity Rating Scale (C-SSRS), a validated scale that assesses suicide risk. An additional patient treated with Qelbree reported suicidal behavior during the clinical trials, but did not report it on the C-SSRS. Among 463 patients treated with placebo in these studies, two patients (0.4%) reported suicidal ideation on the C-SSRS. No patients treated with placebo reported suicidal behavior. No completed suicides occurred in these trials. Among 189 adults treated with Qelbree, a total of three patients (1.6%) reported suicidal ideation on the C-SSRS, versus 0 of 183 adults treated with placebo. No adults treated with either Qelbree or placebo reported suicidal behavior on the C-SSRS in the study. No attempted or completed suicides occurred in the trial. Patients treated with Qelbree had higher rates of insomnia and irritability [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . Although a causal link between the emergence of insomnia and irritability and the emergence of suicidal impulses has not been established, there is a concern that these and other symptoms such as depressed mood, anxiety, agitation, akathisia, mania, hypomania, panic attacks, impulsive behavior, and aggression may represent precursors to emerging suicidal ideation or behavior. Thus, patients being treated with Qelbree should be observed for the emergence of precursor symptoms. Closely monitor all Qelbree-treated patients for clinical worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially during the initial few months of drug therapy, and at times of dosage changes. Consider changing the therapeutic regimen, including possibly discontinuing Qelbree, in patients who are experiencing emergent suicidal thoughts and behaviors or symptoms that might be precursors to emerging suicidal ideation or behavior, especially if these symptoms are severe or abrupt in onset, or were not part of the patient's presenting symptoms. Advise family members or caregivers of patients to monitor for the emergence of suicidal ideation or behavior, and to report such symptoms immediately to the healthcare provider. 5.2 Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Increases Qelbree can cause an increase in heart rate and diastolic blood pressure. Pediatric Patients In a clinical study in pediatric patients 6 to 11 years of age, 34/154 (22%) of patients treated with Qelbree 100 mg daily had a ≥20 beat per minute (bpm) increase in heart rate at any time point in the clinical trial, compared to 15/159 (9%) of patients who received placebo. This finding was observed in 84/268 (31%) who received the 200 mg daily dosage, compared to 39/262 (15%) of patients in the placebo group, and in 28/100 (28%) of patients who received the 400 mg daily dosage, compared to 24/103 (23%) of patients who received placebo. In a clinical study in pediatric patients 12 to 17 years of age, 22/99 (22%) of patients treated with Qelbree 200 mg daily had a ≥20 bpm increase in heart rate at any time point in the clinical trial, compared to 15/104 (14%) of patients who received placebo. This finding was observed in 69/205 (34%) who received the 400 mg daily dosage, compared to 35/201 (17%) of patients in the placebo group. In pediatric patients 12 to 17 years of age, 52/205 (25%) of patients treated with Qelbree 400 mg daily had a ≥ 15 mmHg increase in diastolic blood pressure at any time in the clinical trial, compared to 26/201 (13%) of patients in the placebo group. Adult Patients In a clinical study in adult patients (18 to 60 years of age), 52/178 (29%) of patients treated daily with Qelbree (200 mg to 600 mg) had a ≥20 beat per minute (bpm) increase in heart rate at any time point in the clinical trial, compared to 23/181 (13%) of patients who received placebo. Of patients treated daily with Qelbree (200 to 600 mg), 23/178 (13%) had a ≥ 15 mmHg increase in diastolic blood pressure at any time in the clinical trial, compared to 16/181 (9%) of patients in the placebo group. Assess heart rate and blood pressure prior to initiating treatment with Qelbree, following increases in dosage, and periodically while on therapy [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ] . 5.3 Activation of Mania or Hypomania Noradrenergic drugs, such as Qelbree, may induce a manic or mixed episode in patients with bipolar disorder. Prior to initiating treatment with Qelbree, screen patients to determine if they are at risk for bipolar disorder; such screening should include a detailed psychiatric history, including a personal or family history of suicide, bipolar disorder, and depression [see Dosage and Administration (2.1) ]. 5.4 Somnolence and Fatigue Qelbree can cause somnolence and fatigue. In the short-term, placebo-controlled clinical trials in pediatric patients (6 to 17 years) with ADHD, somnolence (including lethargy and sedation) was reported in 16% of Qelbree-treated patients compared to 4% of placebo-treated patients. Fatigue was reported in 6% of Qelbree-treated patients, compared to 2% of placebo-treated patients [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ]. In adults, somnolence was reported in 6% of Qelbree-treated patients versus 2% in placebo-treated patients. Fatigue was reported in 12% of Qelbree-treated patients versus 3% of placebo-treated patients. Patients should not perform activities requiring mental alertness, such as operating a motor vehicle or operating hazardous machinery until they know how they will be affected by Qelbree.
Who should not take Qelbree
Qelbree is contraindicated in patients: receiving concomitant treatment with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI), or within 14 days following discontinuing an MAOI, because of an increased risk of hypertensive crisis [see Drug Interactions (7.1) ] . receiving concomitant administration of sensitive CYP1A2 substrates or CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic range [see Drug Interactions (7.1) ]. Concomitant administration of monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOI), or dosing within 14 days after discontinuing an MAOI ( 4 , 7.1 ) Concomitant administration of sensitive CYP1A2 substrates or CYP1A2 substrates with a narrow therapeutic range ( 4 , 7.1 )
Overdose — what happens if you take too much
Human Experience The pre-market clinical trials with Qelbree do not provide information regarding symptoms of overdose. Literature reports from post marketing experience with immediate-release viloxazine include cases of overdosage from 1000 mg to 6500 mg (1.7 to 10.8 times the maximum recommended daily dose). The most reported symptom was drowsiness. Impaired consciousness, diminished reflexes, and increased heart rate have also been reported. Treatment and Management There is no specific antidote for Qelbree overdose. Administer symptomatic and supportive treatment as appropriate. In case of overdose, consult a Certified Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222 or www.poison.org ).
U.S. Poison Control: call or text 1-800-222-1222 (free, 24/7). In an emergency call 911. From the FDA label; not medical advice.
Interactions
Moderate sensitive CYP1A2 substrates : Not recommended for coadministration with Qelbree. Dose reduction may be warranted ( 7.1 ) 7.1 Drugs Having Clinically Important Interactions with Qelbree Table 3: Clinically Important Drug Interactions with Qelbree Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI) Clinical Impact Concomitant use of Qelbree with an MAOI may lead to a potentially life-threatening hypertensive crisis. Intervention Concomitant use of Qelbree with an MAOI or within 2 weeks after discontinuing an MAOI is contraindicated [see Contraindications (4) ] . Sensitive CYP1A2 Substrates or CYP1A2 Substrates with a Narrow Therapeutic Range Clinical Impact Viloxazine is a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor. Concomitant use of viloxazine significantly increases the total exposure, but not peak exposure, of sensitive CYP1A2 substrates [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] , which may increase the risk of adverse reactions associated with these CYP1A2 substrates. Intervention Coadministration with Qelbree is contraindicated [see Contraindications (4) ] . Moderate Sensitive CYP1A2 Substrate Clinical Impact Viloxazine is a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor. Concomitant use of viloxazine significantly increases the total, but not peak, exposure of sensitive CYP1A2 substrates [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] , which may increase the risk of adverse reactions associated with these CYP1A2 substrates. Intervention Not recommended for coadministration with Qelbree. Dose reduction may be warranted if coadministered. CYP2D6 Substrates Clinical Impact Viloxazine is a weak inhibitor of CYP2D6, and increases the exposure of CYP2D6 substrates when coadministered [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Intervention Monitor patients for adverse reactions and adjust dosages of CYP2D6 substrates, as clinically indicated. CYP3A4 Substrates Clinical Impact Viloxazine is a weak inhibitor of CYP3A4 which increases the exposure of CYP3A4 substrates when coadministered [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. Intervention Monitor patients for adverse reactions and adjust dosages of CYP3A4 substrates, as clinically indicated.
Drug class
May treat (source: NIH RxClass)
Dosage forms
Capsule, extended release
The forms currently marketed in the U.S., per the FDA National Drug Code Directory.
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Frequently asked questions
- What does Qelbree treat?
- Qelbree (Viloxazine Hydrochloride) may be used to treat depression, based on NIH RxClass drug-classification data (conditions a drug may treat — not a verbatim copy of the FDA-approved label). This is general reference, not medical advice.
- Is there a coupon or discount for Qelbree?
- pharmaranks is an independent ratings site, not a pharmacy — we don't issue coupons or sell Qelbree. To pay less, ask your prescriber or pharmacist whether a generic equivalent exists, check the manufacturer's copay/savings card and patient-assistance program, and compare a pharmacy discount card against your insurance copay. Prices vary by pharmacy, insurance, and location, so always confirm at the counter. This is general reference, not medical or financial advice.
- Who makes Qelbree?
- Qelbree is marketed by Supernus Pharms. You can see Supernus Pharms's full profile, rating, and other products on pharmaranks.
- Is Qelbree a brand-name or generic drug?
- Qelbree is a brand-name product with the active ingredient Viloxazine Hydrochloride.
- Is Qelbree available over the counter?
- No. Qelbree is a prescription (Rx) medication in the US — you need a prescription from a licensed clinician (in person or via telehealth); it isn't sold over the counter. For some conditions there are OTC alternatives — ask your pharmacist.
- What forms does Qelbree come in?
- Qelbree is currently marketed as capsule, extended release, per the FDA's National Drug Code Directory.
- What class of drug is Qelbree?
- Qelbree is classified as norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, per the FDA's Established Pharmacologic Class.
- Is Qelbree FDA-registered?
- Qelbree is on record with the U.S. FDA under application number NDA211964. You can verify this on its official FDA label.
- Is Qelbree safe?
- There's no single safe-or-not verdict, and we don't yet have a composite recall-safety score for Qelbree. Review its FDA-label side effects and warnings below, and always consult a licensed professional.
- What are the side effects of Qelbree?
- Qelbree's side effects are taken directly from its FDA label. From the label: The following serious adverse reactions are described in other sections of the labeling: Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Increases [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] Activation of Mania or Hypomania [see Warnings and Precautions… Both common and serious reactions are documented in full on this page. This is general reference from the FDA, not medical advice — always consult a professional.
Clinical content sourced from the FDA label via openFDA (U.S. FDA). View the FDA label on DailyMed → Provided for general reference only — not medical advice. Always consult a licensed professional and the current prescribing information.
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