vilazodone (Viibryd)

Meet with a licensed provider online to explore if an antidepressant medication like vilazodone (Viibryd) may be right for you.

Treatment for:
depression

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How prescribing works

  • 1

    Find the right provider

    Browse providers online or call us and we’ll help you find someone who accepts your insurance and fits your needs. Pick a time that works for you and choose how you’d like to pay.

  • 2

    Get started with treatment

    At your first session, share what you’re experiencing and what you’re hoping to get out of treatment. Together, you’ll discuss your options—including whether medication might be a good fit. If so, your provider can send a prescription directly to your local pharmacy.

  • 3

    Track your progress

    Your provider will check in regularly to make sure your treatment plan is working for you and adjust as needed.

What is a SPARI?

A selective partial agonist and reuptake inhibitor (SPARI) is a class of medication used to treat mental health conditions like depression.

How does a SPARI work?

SPARIs both increase the availability of serotonin and act like serotonin in the brain. By working in these two different ways, SPARIs can be useful to reduce symptoms of major depressive disorder and other mental health conditions.

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FAQs about vilazodone (Viibryd)

What is vilazodone (Viibryd) used for?

Vilazodone (Viibryd) is an antidepressant medication used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), or depression, as it's more commonly known. It is a serotonin partial agonist reuptake inhibitor (SPARI) that works to treat depression by improving serotonin levels in the brain.

How is vilazodone (Viibryd) different from other ssris?

Vilazodone is different from other SSRIs because it works in two different ways to balance levels of the brain chemical serotonin in the brain, functioning as both an SSRI and a serotonin receptor agonist. Researchers believe this may help Vilazodone start working faster than other SSRI medications to treat depression symptoms.

Does vilazodone (Viibryd) cause weight gain or loss?

Weight gain or weight loss are not common with vilazodone use, though some people who take vilazodone may experience changes in weight. Vilazodone can cause diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, which, in serious cases, may cause some weight loss. Talk with your provider if you have concerns about weight changes with vilazodone use; they can provide more information.

Is vilazodone (Viibryd) a controlled substance?

No, vilazodone is not a controlled substance—it is not habit-forming and doesn't cause addiction. If you have questions about how vilazodone works, talk with your provider to learn more.

How long does vilazodone (Viibryd) take to start working?

Your provider will likely start you on a low dose of vilazodone and gradually increase your dose based on your response to the medication. It may take a few weeks to several months of taking vilazodone regularly before you notice an improvement in your symptoms. If you have questions about vilazodone's effectiveness for you, talk with your provider. Do not change your dosage or stop taking the medication on your own.

Does vilazodone (Viibryd) help anxiety?

Yes, Vilazodone can help with anxiety and is sometimes used off-label to treat it. An off-label use is when a medication is used for a purpose other than its officially approved use(s). In some cases, if you have both depression and anxiety, your provider may discuss vilazodone as an option for you. To learn more about whether vilazodone can help with anxiety, talk with your provider.

Can I get a prescription online?

You can meet with a licensed provider at Thriveworks, in person or online depending on your state. If it’s clinically appropriate, they may prescribe medication for a diagnosed mental health condition. Your provider will send your prescription to a local pharmacy to be filled.

Can I use my health insurance for prescriptions and refills?

Thriveworks accepts most major insurance plans for psychiatry and therapy services. Your insurance may also cover the cost of any medication your provider prescribes, which can be filled at a local pharmacy. Check with your plan to confirm your medical and prescription coverage.

How do I get a prescription at Thriveworks?

Schedule a session with a licensed psychiatric provider at Thriveworks. After discussing your symptoms and treatment goals, your provider may recommend medication and/or additional services to help you get where you want to be.

Is Thriveworks LegitScript certified?

Yes. Thriveworks is LegitScript-certified, meaning we’ve been reviewed and verified by one of the most trusted compliance organizations in healthcare. This certification confirms that our services meet high standards for legality, safety, and transparency.

This information has been reviewed for accuracy and approved by our licensed psychiatric team. Published December 10, 2024
Dr. Scott Gordon

Accepting medication as part of your mental health care plan is an individual and often deeply personal decision. At Thriveworks, we’re here to help you understand your care options and support you on the path toward wellness. We prioritize treating the whole patient, whether through medication, therapy, or a combination of both — guided by clinical best practices and rigorously developed treatment strategies to help clients safely and efficiently resolve their symptoms.

Dr. Scott Gordon Chief Medical Officer

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