Trintellix (Vortioxetine): Drug Information

Vortioxetine, also known by the name Trintellix, is a drug that was approved in 2012 for the treatment of a major depressive disorder. It belongs to the class of antidepressants called serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Vortioxetine is prescribed for both adult and adolescent patients who are suffering from moderate-to-severe depression. Although it has not been approved for other mental illnesses at this time, there have been studies done showing its effectiveness in treating anxiety disorders as well.

This article will discuss what you need to know about vortioxetine before taking it including what does it treat, its side effects, how long does it take to work, and everything in between.

What Is Vortioxetine (Trintellix)?

Vortioxetine is a drug that was created to treat the major depressive disorder. It belongs to the class of antidepressants known as serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

Vortioxetine works by slowing down the amount of time it takes for neurons in your brain to communicate with each other. This may increase the amount of serotonin that is available to your brain.

NOTE: Serotonin is a chemical that helps to regulate mood, appetite, and sleep.

What Does Vortioxetine (Trintellix) Treat?

At this time, vortioxetine has been FDA approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder in both adults and adolescents. There are also studies being done to see if it is effective in treating other mental illnesses such as anxiety disorders.

How Effective Is Vortioxetine (Trintellix) In Treating Depression?

A study was done comparing the effectiveness of vortioxetine to placebo in adults with major depressive disorder. The researchers found that after eight weeks, approximately 37% of patients who were treated with vortioxetine experienced significant improvement compared to 23% of those taking the placebo.

Another study was done comparing the effectiveness and safety of different doses of vortioxetine to placebo in adults with major depressive disorder. The researchers found that after eight weeks, those receiving 20 mg of vortioxetine had improved from the beginning of the study significantly more than those who were taking a lower dose or placebo.

How Should I Take Vortioxetine (Trintellix)?

The recommended dose of vortioxetine for adults is 20 mg per day. It can be taken with or without food.

If you are starting treatment with vortioxetine, your doctor may start you on a lower dose and increase it over time if needed.

What Happens If I Miss A Dose Of Vortioxetine (Trintellix)?

If you miss a dose of vortioxetine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.

What Should I Avoid While Taking Vortioxetine (Trintellix)?

There are no specific concerns about taking vortioxetine and other medications or supplements. However, you should not drive a car or use heavy machinery until you know how vortioxetine will affect you. This is because it may cause dizziness, drowsiness, tiredness, weakness, lightheadedness, or blurred vision in some people who take it.

What Should I Discuss With My Doctor Before Taking Vortioxetine (Trintellix)?

Before taking vortioxetine, you should talk to your health care provider about the following:

Other medications or supplements you are currently taking

Your doctor must know if you are using other drugs and/or supplements because vortioxetine may interact with some of them.

Pregnancy or plans to get pregnant

Some people who are taking vortioxetine have reported experiencing an increase in serotonin. It can cause birth defects and pregnancy complications such as miscarriage.

What Happens If I Overdose With Vortioxetine (Trintellix)?

If you or someone else has taken too much vortioxetine, immediately seek a medical emergency.

Important Information I Should Know About Vortioxetine (Trintellix)

There are some important things you should know about vortioxetine before taking it.

Increase In Serotonin

It may cause an increase in serotonin, which can result in side effects such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, sexual dysfunction (loss of sex drive or problems achieving orgasm), and sleepiness. If these symptoms do not subside, tell your doctor immediately.

Risk Of Warfrin

It may increase your risk of bleeding or bruising if you are taking another drug that increases the risk of these symptoms (such as warfarin). If this occurs, stop using vortioxetine and contact your health care provider right away.

Risk Of Interaction

Vortioxetine can affect how other drugs are processed in your body. If you are taking other medications, tell your doctor about all of them before beginning treatment with vortioxetine.

Risk Of Transfusion

It is not known if this drug passes into breast milk or can harm a nursing baby. You should talk to your health care provider about the risks and benefits of breastfeeding while taking vortioxetine.

Specific Concerns About Vortioxetine (Trintellix) And Pregnancy

Some people who are taking vortioxetine have reported an increase in serotonin, which can cause birth defects and pregnancy complications such as miscarriage.

NOTE: If you become pregnant while taking this drug, contact your doctor immediately. You should also consult your doctor before becoming pregnant.

Breast-feeding

Further studies will confirm if vortioxetine passes into breast milk. If you are a breastfeeding mother and are taking this drug, it may affect your baby.

• Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breastfeeding or stop taking vortioxetine before beginning treatment.

Possible Side Effects Of Vortioxetine (Trintellix)

The most common side effects associated with taking this drug are constipation, diarrhea, nausea, dry mouth, decreased appetite, and sleepiness.

Common Side Effects

Constipation

This is a common side effect of vortioxetine that usually does not require medical attention. However, you should tell your doctor if it becomes severe or lasts for several days as there may be a different cause.

Diarrhea

This is also a common side effect of vortioxetine and usually resolves on its own. However, if it becomes severe or lasts for more than a few days, tell your doctor as it may be due to another problem.

Nausea

Many people taking vortioxetine experience nausea. If it becomes severe or lasts for more than a few days, tell your doctor as there may be another problem.

Dry Mouth

This is also a common side effect of vortioxetine. Doctors usually recommend drinking plenty of fluids and using saliva substitutes.

Decreased Appetite

Some people taking vortioxetine may experience a decrease in their appetite. If this occurs, make sure to eat nutritious foods and drink plenty of fluids.

Sleepiness

This is also a common side effect of vortioxetine and usually resolves on its own. However, if it becomes severe or lasts for more than a few days, tell your doctor.

Headache

This is also a common side effect of vortioxetine and usually resolves on its own. However, if it becomes severe or persists, tell your doctor.

Dizziness

Some people taking vortioxetine have reported experiencing dizziness. If it becomes severe or lasts for more than a few days, tell your doctor as there may be another problem.

Less Common Side Effects

• Seizures (convulsions);
• Abnormal movements such as tremors and restlessness;
• Breathing problems such as shortness of breath;
• Swelling in the abdomen;
• Low blood cell counts;
• Changes in heart rhythm

Other Medications That May Interact With Vortioxetine (Trintellix)

Several other medications may interact with vortioxetine. Be sure to tell your doctor about all the medication you are currently taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements.

How Long Does It Take For Vortioxetine (Trintellix) To Work?

It may take several weeks for vortioxetine to start working. You should continue taking it as prescribed even if you do not feel any improvement at first.

If you do not feel any improvement after taking vortioxetine for several weeks, talk to your doctor.

If you have any other questions about vortioxetine, please talk to your health care provider. They can provide more information and advice tailored to your specific situation.

Conclusion

If you are considering taking vortioxetine, be sure to discuss it with your health care provider. They can provide more information and advice tailored to your specific situation. Remember that it is important to take this medication as prescribed and not stop taking it without talking to your doctor. Vortioxetine may start you on a lower dose and potentially increase your dose over time. If you are concerned about side effects, talk to your health care provider as soon as possible.

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