{"id":4554,"date":"2022-10-11T08:56:14","date_gmt":"2022-10-11T15:56:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/?p=4554"},"modified":"2023-10-04T11:03:22","modified_gmt":"2023-10-04T18:03:22","slug":"paxil-vs-viibryd","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/cms.helloklarity.com\/post\/paxil-vs-viibryd\/","title":{"rendered":"Paxil vs. Viibryd: Which One Should I Take?"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

When you\u2019re looking for treatment for your depression<\/a> or anxiety<\/a>, you may feel confused and overwhelmed by the wide variety of antidepressants available, which can make choosing one difficult.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This medication guide compares two common selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)\u2014Paxil and Viibryd\u2014to help you better understand the benefits and downsides of each and have a more informed conversation with your healthcare provider before starting treatment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you need a reliable, affordable healthcare provider to prescribe an SSRI like Paxil or Viibryd, Klarity can help. We\u2019ll connect you with a licensed medical professional so you can get treatment<\/a>, which could include prescription medication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Schedule an appointment<\/a>, and we\u2019ll match you with an experienced healthcare provider for your first telehealth appointment within 48 hours. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This article discusses suicide, suicidal ideation, and self-harm. If you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts or is in crisis, contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline immediately at 800-273-8255.<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\t\n\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t\n\t
<\/th>Paxil<\/th>Viibryd<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
Drug Class<\/strong><\/td>Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)<\/td>Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI)
\r\n
\r\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Brand \/ Generic Status<\/strong><\/td>Brand name for paroxetine
\n
\n<\/td>		Brand name for vilazodone<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Form(s) of the Drug<\/strong><\/td>\u2022 Color-coded tablets
\n\u2022 Time-release tablets
\n\u2022 Orange-colored and flavored liquid suspension
\n<\/td>		Immediate release tablets, Extended-release capsules
\r\n
\r\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Standard Dosage<\/strong><\/td>Time-release tablets:
\n\u2022 37.5mg of paroxetine
\n
\nColor-coded tablets:
\n\u2022 Yellow: 10 mg
\n\u2022 Pink: 20 mg
\n\u2022 Blue: 30 mg
\n\u2022 Green: 40 mg
\n
\nLiquid suspension:
\n\u2022 5mg of suspension contains 10mg of paroxetine
\n<\/td>		Color-coded immediate release tablets:
\r\n\u2022 10mg red
\r\n\u2022 20mg yellow
\r\n\u2022 40mg blue
\r\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Conditions Treated<\/strong><\/td>FDA-approved uses:
\n\u2022 Major depression
\n
\nOff-label uses:
\n\u2022 Anxiety
\n\u2022 Panic disorder
\n\u2022 Insomnia
\n<\/td>		FDA-approved uses:
\r\n\u2022 Depression
\r\n
\r\nOff-label uses:
\r\n\u2022 Obsessive-compulsive disorder
\r\n\u2022 Generalized anxiety disorder
\r\n\u2022 Panic disorder
\r\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Cost<\/strong><\/td>Generic form (paroxetine):
\n\u2022 $4 to $25 for a 30-day supply
\n
\nBrand-name:
\n\u2022 $280 for a 30-day supply
\n<\/td>		Generic form (vilazodone):
\r\n\u2022 $15 for a 30-day supply
\r\n
\r\nBrand-name:
\r\n\u2022 $340 for a 30-day supply
\r\n
\r\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Side-Effects<\/strong><\/td>Common side effects:
\n\u2022 Changes in vision
\n\u2022 Weakness, drowsiness, or dizziness
\n\u2022 Sweating or shaking
\n\u2022 Anxiety
\n\u2022 Insomnia
\n\u2022 Loss of appetite, nausea, and vomiting
\n\u2022 Diarrhea or constipation
\n\u2022 Dry mouth
\n\u2022 Infections
\n\u2022 Headaches
\n\u2022 Decreased sex drive or impotence
\n\u2022 Abnormal ejaculation or difficulty orgasming
\n
\nSerious side effects:
\n\u2022 Racing thoughts
\n\u2022 Decreased need for sleep
\n\u2022 Unusual risk-taking behaviors
\n\u2022 Extreme feelings of happiness or sadness
\n\u2022 Being more talkative than usual
\n\u2022 Blurred vision or tunnel vision
\n\u2022 Eye pain, swelling, or seeing halos around lights
\n\u2022 Bone pain, tenderness, swelling, or bruising
\n\u2022 Changes in weight or appetite
\n\u2022 Coughing up blood or bleeding from your nose, mouth, or rectum
\n\u2022 Unusual vaginal bleeding
\n\u2022 Stiff or rigid muscles
\n\u2022 High fever, sweating, tremors, or fainting
\n\u2022 Fast, uneven heartbeat
\n\u2022 Headaches
\n\u2022 Confusion or slurred speech
\n\u2022 Severe weakness, lost coordination, or feeling unsteady
\n
\n<\/td>		Common side effects:
\r\n\u2022 Nausea
\r\n\u2022 Vomiting
\r\n\u2022 Diarrhea
\r\n\u2022 Insomnia
\r\n\u2022 Sexual dysfunction
\r\n
\r\n
\r\nSerious side effects:
\r\n\u2022 Seizures
\r\n\u2022 Blurred or tunnel vision
\r\n\u2022 Eye pain, swelling, or seeing halos around lights
\r\n\u2022 Easy bruising or unusual bleeding
\r\n\u2022 Racing thoughts or unusual risk-taking behavior
\r\n\u2022 Decreased inhibitions, euphoria, or extreme sadness
\r\n\u2022 Headache or severe weakness
\r\n\u2022 Confusion or slurred speech
\r\n\u2022 Loss of coordination or feeling unsteady
\r\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
Warnings For Use<\/strong><\/td>Contraindicated conditions:
\n\u2022 Bipolar disorder
\n\u2022 History of suicide attempts
\n\u2022 Liver or kidney problems
\n\u2022 Bleeding problems
\n\u2022 Low sodium in the blood
\n\u2022 Peptic ulcer disease
\n\u2022 Seizure disorders
\n\u2022 Thyroid disease
\n\u2022 Angle-closure type glaucoma
\n\u2022 Pregnancy or breastfeeding
\n
\nDrug interactions:
\n\u2022 Antiplatelet
\n\u2022 NSAIDs
\n\u2022 Warfarin and other blood-thinning medications
\n\u2022 Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory
\n\u2022 SNRIs
\n\u2022 Phenothiazines
\n\u2022 Antipsychotic,
\n\u2022 Atypical Antipsychotic
\n\u2022 SERM
\n\u2022 VMAT2 Inhibitors
\n\u2022 Antiarrhythmic medications
\n\u2022 TCA antidepressants
\n\u2022 Antihistamines
\n\u2022 Sleep aids
\n\u2022 Muscle relaxants
\n\u2022 Opiate-based pain relievers or cough suppressants
\n\u2022 Water pills (may cause salt imbalance)
\n\u2022 MAOIs may cause a fatal reaction
\n\u2022 Alcohol
\n\u2022 Marijuana<\/td>		Contraindicated conditions:
\r\n\u2022 Liver or kidney disease
\r\n\u2022 Bleeding or blood clotting disorders
\r\n\u2022 Narrow-angle glaucoma
\r\n\u2022 Epilepsy
\r\n\u2022 Bipolar disorder
\r\n\u2022 Sexual function issues
\r\n\u2022 A history of drug addiction
\r\n\u2022 Suicidal thoughts
\r\n
\r\n
\r\nDrug interactions:
\r\n\u2022 Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
\r\n\u2022 Pimozide or other Tourette's syndrome medications
\r\n\u2022 Thioridazine or other antipsychotic medications
\r\n\u2022 Stimulant medications, like Adderall
\r\n\u2022 Opioid-based painkillers
\r\n\u2022 Herbal supplements, such as St. John\u2019s Wort
\r\n\u2022 Tryptophan
\r\n<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n\n\n\n\n

What is Paxil?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Paxil is the brand name for the antidepressant medication paroxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). SSRIs alleviate the symptoms of major depressive disorder by blocking receptors in the brain from reabsorbing serotonin. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

This process increases serotonin levels in the brain, which helps to stabilize fluctuating moods, improve sleep cycles, regulate appetite, and increase alertness and energy levels.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Common Doses and Forms of Paxil<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Paxil is available in three forms: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

    \n
  • Immediate-Release (IR) Tablets<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Extended-Release (ER) tablets<\/li>\n\n\n\n
  • Liquid suspension<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

    The biggest difference between the IR tablets and ER tablets is that IR tablets may require multiple doses per day, while you can take just one ER tablet daily. The one you choose depends on your schedule and specific needs. For instance, someone with depression-related brain fog and forgetfulness may benefit from the convenience of an extended-release tablet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

    All tablets are scored and printed with the dosage amount on one side and Paxil on the other. They\u2019re also color-coded by dosage, as follows: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      \n
    • 10 mg yellow<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • 20 mg pink<\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • 30 mg blue <\/li>\n\n\n\n
    • 40 mg green <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

      The suspension works well for those who have trouble swallowing pills. It\u2019s orange in color with orange flavoring added to improve the taste. Each 5 mL of liquid contains 10mg of Paxil. Regardless of which version you decide to take, most people are prescribed an initial dose of 20 mg, which can be gradually increased to a maximum dosage of 50 mg daily. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Conditions Paxil Treats<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

      Paxil effectively treats a wide range of mental health problems, the most common being depression and anxiety. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

      Some of the other conditions Paxil treats include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        \n
      • Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Menopausal symptoms<\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) <\/li>\n\n\n\n
      • Panic disorder<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

        Paxil Can Treat Symptoms of Depression<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

        Of the listed disorders, Paxil is only FDA-approved to treat depression, though it\u2019s considered safe to prescribe for other uses. These uses simply haven\u2019t gone through the FDA approval process yet. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

        SSRIs are among the most commonly prescribed medications to treat anxiety and depression because these conditions often stem from a chemical imbalance in the brain. Increased serotonin levels help alleviate the fatigue, nervousness, brain fog, and sleep disturbances associated with anxiety, depression, and related disorders such as panic disorder.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

        Off-Label Uses for Paxil<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

        Medical professionals frequently prescribe Paxil off-label to treat conditions related to mood and body chemistry, such as: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

          \n
        • Obsessive-compulsive disorder <\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Menopausal symptoms<\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) <\/li>\n\n\n\n
        • Anxiety and panic disorder<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

          Increased serotonin helps individuals feel calmer and more focused so that they can manage these conditions more easily. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Paxil Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

          A 30-day supply of brand-name Paxil can cost up to $300, while the same amount of the generic formula, paroxetine, costs between $16 and $40, on average. The price could be lower or higher, depending on your coverage and the pharmacy you use. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

          Paxil Side Effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

          Because they affect your brain chemistry, most SSRIs cause mild to moderate side effects. Some may fade completely in a few weeks, while others may be intermittent. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

          A few of the most common side effects include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

            \n
          • Changes in vision<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Weakness, drowsiness, or dizziness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Sweating, anxiety, or shaking<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Insomnia<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Reduced appetite<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or constipation<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Dry mouth<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Headaches<\/li>\n\n\n\n
          • Sexual dysfunction <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

            The following side effects are rare but may indicate a serious medical issue called serotonin syndrome. This condition occurs when the brain becomes flooded with too much serotonin. It can affect anyone taking SSRIs or other serotonin-affecting medications and can be fatal if left untreated.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

            If you experience any of the following, seek medical attention immediately: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

              \n
            • Racing thoughts, requiring less sleep, manic euphoria<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Blurred or tunnel vision <\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Eye pain, swelling, or seeing halos around lights<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Bone pain or tenderness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Swelling or easy bruising<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Unusual changes in weight or appetite<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Unusual bleeding from the nose, mouth, vagina, or rectum<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Coughing up blood;<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Rigid muscles, high fever, sweating<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Confusion, racing heart or arrhythmia, tremors, or fainting<\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Severe headache, slurred speech <\/li>\n\n\n\n
            • Severe weakness and reduced coordination<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

              Paxil Warnings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

              It\u2019s important to speak with your healthcare provider before starting Paxil to determine if it\u2019s the right medication for you, especially if you have preexisting conditions. Those with the following conditions or symptoms should consider an alternative to Paxil: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                \n
              • Heart disease or stroke<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • High blood pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Liver or kidney disease<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Bleeding disorders<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Epilepsy <\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Bipolar disorder <\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Sexual dysfunction<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Glaucoma<\/li>\n\n\n\n
              • Low blood sodium levels<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                Paxil Drug Interactions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                Those taking the following medications should avoid taking Paxil: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  \n
                • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Pimozide or other Tourettes syndrome medications<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Thioridazine or other antipsychotic medications<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Stimulant medications, like Adderall<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Opioid-based painkillers<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Herbal supplements, such as St. John\u2019s Wort<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                • Tryptophan<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                  If you take MAOIs and want to try Paxil, stop taking the MAOIs for at least 14 days before starting Paxil. Additionally, those with a history of substance misuse should consider alternatives to Paxil. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  You should take Paxil exactly as prescribed, and should not stop abruptly, as it can result in withdrawal symptoms. If you\u2019d like to discontinue use, consult with your healthcare provider for ways to safely taper off the medication. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  What is Viibryd?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

                  Viibryd is the brand name for the SSRI medication vilazodone. Like Paxil, it increases serotonin levels in the brain by preventing receptors from absorbing it into the bloodstream. This gives the brain more serotonin to regulate moods, improve concentration and energy levels, and make sleep easier.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Common Doses and Forms of Viibryd<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                  Viibryd only comes in tablet form and should be taken with food. Most individuals start with an initial dosage of 10mg daily, gradually increasing to a maximum dose of 40mg daily. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                  Each Viibryd tablet is oval-shaped and printed with the dosage. They\u2019re also color-coded by dose, as follows: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    \n
                  • 10 mg red<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                  • 20 mg yellow<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                  • 40 mg blue<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                    Conditions Viibryd Treats<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                    Since Viibryd is a more potent SSRI than Paxil, it\u2019s usually only prescribed to treat depression and depression-related conditions. However, it\u2019s also proven effective in an off-label capacity for treating anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                    Viibryd Can Treat Symptoms of Depression<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

                    Like Paxil, Viibryd addresses the symptoms of depression by regulating serotonin production in the brain. It makes more serotonin available to help alleviate symptoms like: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                      \n
                    • Chronic fatigue<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                    • Panic attacks<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                    • Insomnia<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                    • Lack of appetite<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                    • Lack of interest<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                    • Chronic nervousness<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                      Off-Label Uses for Viibryd<\/h4>\n\n\n\n

                      So far, Viibryd has only been FDA-approved to treat depression. FDA approval requires rigorous testing and significant resources, so not all medications can be approved for every use. However, it\u2019s considered safe and effective to prescribe off-label for the following conditions: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                        \n
                      • Obsessive-compulsive disorder<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                      • Generalized anxiety disorder <\/li>\n\n\n\n
                      • Panic disorder<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                        Viibryd Costs<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                        A month\u2019s worth of brand-name Viibryd can cost up to $341. Its generic counterpart, vilazodone, has recently been FDA-approved for prescription and costs around $15 for a 30-day supply. As with any medication, these prices may fluctuate based on your pharmacy and insurance coverage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

                        Viibryd Side Effects<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                        Viibryd has fewer common side effects than Paxil, which should subside within a few weeks as your body acclimates to the medication. These side effects include: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                          \n
                        • Nausea<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                        • Vomiting<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                        • Diarrhea<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                        • Insomnia<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                        • Sexual dysfunction<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                          The following severe side effects may be symptoms of a potentially fatal condition called serotonin syndrome. If you experience any of the following severe side effects, seek medical attention immediately: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                            \n
                          • Seizures<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Blurred or tunnel vision<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Eye pain, swelling, or seeing halos around lights<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Easy bruising or unusual bleeding<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Racing thoughts or unusual risk-taking behavior<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Decreased inhibitions, euphoria, or extreme sadness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Headache or severe weakness<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Confusion or slurred speech<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                          • Loss of coordination or feeling unsteady<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                            Viibryd Warnings<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                            SSRIs can adversely affect or exacerbate certain conditions. If you have any of the following conditions \u2014 including family history \u2014 you may want to seek alternatives to Viibryd: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                              \n
                            • Liver or kidney disease<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Bleeding or blood clotting disorders<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Narrow-angle glaucoma<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Epilepsy<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Bipolar disorder<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Sexual function issues<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • A history of drug addiction<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                            • Suicidal thoughts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n

                              Viibryd Drug Interactions<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

                              Viibryd may interact poorly with certain medications and cause serious health problems. If you take any of the following medications, you may need to find an alternative antidepressant: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

                                \n
                              • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                              • Pimozide or other Tourettes syndrome medications<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                              • Thioridazine or other antipsychotic medications<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                              • Stimulant medications, like Adderall<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                              • Opioid-based painkillers<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                              • Herbal supplements, such as St. John\u2019s Wort<\/li>\n\n\n\n
                              • Tryptophan<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\t\t
                                \n\t\t\t\t\t\t
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