Rexulti patient reviews


Effectiveness, Ease of Use, and Satisfaction

Show ratings & reviews for

3.5 Overall Rating

Share Your Experience

Effectiveness

Tooltip icon

See more

Ease of Use

Tooltip icon

See more

Satisfaction

Tooltip icon

See more

Most voted positive review

86 People found this comment helpful

I take Rexulti and Viibryd only, after 6mo of 7 diff meds. For months and months I googled symptoms of my mental illness (after a severe psychotic break and 8 hospitalizations) and could rarely find any thing good to read. Only the bad. I have been doing AMAZING (with normal ups and downs) for a year now! I am writing a review because I want people to have hope. I almost wasn’t going to because on...

Read more

Most voted negative review

5 People found this comment helpful

Horrible. My doctor put me on a trial .5 dose. For the first few days I felt energetic and calm -- like my feelings of dread and anxiety were going down. Then I started feeling flu-like symptoms and I just assumed I had caught a cold. The "cold" progressed for but also brought with it severe panic attacks. The Rexulti was the only new drug in my system, so I determined it to be the culprit. After ...

Read more

Shared reviews and ratings

SORT BY

Condition: Major Depressive Disorder

Overall rating 5.0

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

I have multiple personalities, bipolar, MDD, and anxiety. Rexulti has helped me tremendously!

ShapeCreated with Sketch.thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Major Depressive Disorder

Overall rating 2.7

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

This med helped with my anxiety noticeably but the restlessness was unbearable along with increased appetite. .. waking up several times a night to eat. Had to stop.

1

ShapeCreated with Sketch.thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Major Depressive Disorder

Overall rating 2.3

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

At first it worked wonderful for me but the longer I was I was on it the more my feelings got locked up. And I had no feelings. So my Doctor had to take me off the medication. The experience was not good for me.

1

ShapeCreated with Sketch.thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Additional Medications to Treat Depression

Overall rating 2. 3

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

My doctor started giving me samples of the rexulti 2 years ago. Really seemed to level my mood and I was doing well for quite a while, until my doctor could no longer get samples, and informed me the prescription was close to 1,500 a month, we decided I needed to discontinue the rexulti. So I have followed her instructions for weaning of the drug, and I am two weeks in and it is a terrible experience. I am having panic attacks constantly, I am in some sort of psychosis that I have never experienced before, I can't leave the house. I have been unable to reach my Dr for days, and I just don't know what to do at this point. I am unable to go to work at this time because of my symptoms, I have never experienced this before and I wish I had never started taking rexulti. Hopefully it gets better at some pointRead More Read Less

ShapeCreated with Sketch.

1

thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Other

Overall rating 1.0

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

I can’t afford the misdiagnosis to keep disability on the diagnosis said not to work and to keep it on I thought I had to Chang emu medication to get I was living in pain I didn’t know not to use or send medical files from the hospital a misdiagnosis is very painful I knew what worked I didn’t know it’s my choice to stay on disability I kept sending them medical files and thought I had to follow a misdiagnosis taking kexaoro i got better and was told I would go off

1

ShapeCreated with Sketch.thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Other

Overall rating 1.0

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

I was misdiagnosed in the or. Anxiety meds were the only thing throat worked I was told being fine I would go off disability the pain of a misdiagnosis and rhe shakes is really bad I thought to keep disability on I had to go through this pain. I was told how hard it is to get insurance and that kind of money by my grandfather I had fear I was told I had to take medication or this medication for my career so I knew it was bad but I thought I had to ruin my body with the misdiagnosis. I didn’t want to pay for a good doctor. I had anxiety of working after being taped and all my checks stolen and going to the police and not knowing how to file reports i had too much fear to file an Enron and go to jail for it said you do in the exam that you’re not supposed to because they could bomb if you see Read More Read Less

1

ShapeCreated with Sketch. thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Major Depressive Disorder

Overall rating 3.0

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

Worked quickly for relieving my depression, caused me to gamble and shop like crazy. Sadly no one mentioned that side effect to me, and it was severe. Didn’t even realize it till after I stopped this medication and realized all my urges to shop and gamble just vanished after roughly 10 days of stopping it. Also stopping this medication…at least for me caused severe panic attacks 15-20 times a day. And now I’m having worse anxiety then I’ve ever had in my whole life. This drug may work for you, but read all possible side effects. You would never think a medication could cause compulsive spending/gambling. Read More Read Less

1

ShapeCreated with Sketch.thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Additional Medications to Treat Depression

Overall rating 4.3

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

I’ve only been taking Rexulti for about two weeks, but it’s been very helpful so far along with Lexapro for depression and anxiety. If you’re reading this and taking Rexulti for depression then you also should also be taking an antidepressant with it. So far so good and nothing else has really worked well, hopefully it will continue to help as time progresses. Give it a chance if you are just starting with it.

1

ShapeCreated with Sketch.thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Other

Overall rating 2.3

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

I suffer from PTSD, Anxiety, Depression and ADD. I started taking .5 with cymbalta 90mg and my depression started getting worse so they upped it to 1mg then my psychologist seen me again and I was still getting worse and gave me 2mg and sent me to therapy and then that's when I got really bad. I literally wanted to kill myself and was preparing for it. I for some just stopped taking my meds because I stopped caring about everything. But I still took my cymbalta because I would get the brain zaps if I didn't. But then I started feeling better, thinking clearer and the realization hit me that I was ready to kill myself and me feeling sane again i got really scared because how close I was to ending it all. Please do not do what I did. You need to be honest about your feelings and see if the meds truly make you better or worse, confide in someone please. Read More Read Less

ShapeCreated with Sketch.

1

thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Major Depressive Disorder

Overall rating 2.7

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

This is the third medication my psychiatrist tried for a depression. I was taking it for 3 months. For the first month, I was taking 0.5 mg. I didn't feel much, except being slightly sedated after the medication. But, if I was taking it at night, I had a poor sleep. For the second month, I was taking 0.5-0.7 mg. I had more energy, although initial sedation was pronounced. Overall, I felt better at that time. For the third month, my psychiatrist bumped the dose to 0.7-1mg. And that's where the hell began. If I take the med at morning, sedation become really intense. Even if I was trying to split the dose in two. If I was taking it at night, my sleep become bad, and I was feeling myself quite sick next day - nauseated, weak, with a headache. These side effects started slowly, but surely Eventually, I started feeling really depressive again. But worst of all, this medication completely shut down my intellectual capabilities. If I am doing any sort of physical / handyman's work - it's not that bad; I feel sedated somewhat but can do things. But I'm a software engineer. And every time I was going to work, I was unable to do _anything_. Literally, it took any ability of mine to do any sort of intellectual work. Any attempt to think would make me sick, and even mildly nauseated. I tried to lower the dose to 0.5 mg - but after days the I still felt same side effects. So I had to stop taking the drug altogether.Read More Read Less

1

ShapeCreated with Sketch.thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Major Depressive Disorder

Overall rating 1.3

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

Started Rexulti after 6 months after having the Mirena IUD inserted. The IUD stopped my periods. Rexulti brought them back w/ a vengeance. Stopped Rexulti for 3 days & it went away. Started back up again and BOOM - periods started again in full force. Lasting over 9 days. Will be stopping Rexulti. The benefits are null.

1

ShapeCreated with Sketch.thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Major Depressive Disorder

Overall rating 4.0

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

Taking with Pristiq, other than getting alittle snippy and short tempered I am a lot more civil and racing thoughts and negative thoughts are reduced significantly. I have been on it 3-4 years, I show up for work, alert, positive attitude, I have even lost 50 lbs and since I'm still 80 lbs over weight it's a good thing. Thank God for modern medicine.

1

ShapeCreated with Sketch.thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Additional Medications to Treat Depression

Overall rating 2.0

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

The medication caused my throat to close up and result in trouble swallowing. ..Which then caused me to have my first panic attacks feeling as though I couldn't breathe...it was awful and scary...it took about 3 months after stopping the medication as well as having an endoscopy done and my throat stretched back out with a balloon to feel normal again...

ShapeCreated with Sketch.

1

thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Other

Overall rating 1.0

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

I have CPTSD, bipolar II, ADHD, depression, and anxiety. My Dr put me on this medication after having me on a whole bunch of other medications at the same time with no relief to my symptoms. So I went on rexulti. HUGE MISTAKE. I spiralled almost immediately indo a deep depression and as a result had to go to IOP for 3 months 3 days a week. I stopped the meds when I heard that my Dr was fired for exactly what she did to me, which was apparently pushing rexulti on all her clients to gain a profit and I'm assuming it resulted in complaints like mine. But even though I've stopped it and been off it for a little over a year, I keep having these deep depression episodes that I've never had before. It's changed my ability to function and be a part of society in a regular capacity. For the past year, I've been in and out of IOP, seen different therapists and psychologists, and talked to Drs and specialists. Most of which is a direct result of taking rexulti. I wouldn't recommend this to my worst enemy. Read More Read Less

1

ShapeCreated with Sketch.thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Major Depressive Disorder

Overall rating 1. 7

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

I was suffering from depression and I didn’t know it until I went to see my psychiatrist. At that time I was taking Escitalopram 10 mg for anxiety(since 2015) and he added Rexulti 0.5 mg(May 2018). After 6 month of taking Rexulti I was feeling unmotivated and didn’t experience much joy with anything. I stopped working and socializing and became less talkative to the point of saying nothing. I was forcing myself to keep on exercising at least twice a week. After 2 years in Rexulti my depression got worse…. I began to go to bed many times during the day…I lost hope in life….there was no reason for me to be alive …. My kids and my husband were desperate and one day they forced me to call my psychiatrist and ask him permission to quit Rexulti. Thanks god I did it! Now I’m back!!!Read More Read Less

1

ShapeCreated with Sketch.thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Additional Medications to Treat Depression

Overall rating 4.7

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

I have been on 0.5mg for almost a month and noticed improvement within a week. I have treatment resistant depression bipolar II and Rexulti has helped my SSRI work better. To those who are having side effects of drowsiness or dizziness: take it at night and you won’t notice. I haven’t had increased hunger or weight gain (yet). I feel more like myself with normal highs and lows, rather than the severe sadness that was pervasive even with my anti-anxiety, SSRI and Mood Stabilizer (venlafaxine, buspirone, and lamotrigene). It is very expensive, but luckily my insurance covers it with a $15 copay. There is a “savings card” available through the Rexulti website also. And someone mentioned mail order. Also, if your insurance doesn’t want to cover a 30-day supply, see if they will do 90-day instead and have your script rewritten for 90-days. Some insurance companies will take 90 but not 30 (for the exact same thing, IDK why). Good luck, don’t give up hope.Read More Read Less

ShapeCreated with Sketch.

1

thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Other

Overall rating 5.0

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

This medication was a game changer for my autistic son's anxiety. He is literally a different kid since starting this drug. His anxiety and accompanying paranoia and agression that it caused pretty much completely resolved.

1

ShapeCreated with Sketch. thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Major Depressive Disorder

Overall rating 5.0

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

Rexulti is my game changer. I am 59 years old and have been increasingly depressed from the time I was 6 years old, which is when my father started abusing me. I remember my 5-year old self as exuberant, excited, enthusiastic and courageous; those traits were snuffed out by almost 15 years of abuse. My depression became so bad that at 52 I retired on disability. I’ve used many antidepressants. Some worked—but it felt like depression had been lessened and little positive added. Rexulti took my recovery to a whole new level—I went from extremely depressed to exuberant in less than 2 weeks. I felt better within a few days but then it just kept going up. I started at 1 mg and am now at 2 mg. I have experienced none of the side effects. Like many, I was shocked about $400/mo copay. Then I found that mail order, through same insurance company, is $40/mo. Don’t give up, there is a solution for you. Read More Read Less

1

ShapeCreated with Sketch.thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Other

Overall rating 3.0

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

I've been in this medication for about 4 months now. I've noticed a lot more confusion in my brain. More forgetful. My psychiatrist and I have been increasing the dose over time. We got me to 2mgs and stayed there for a few months. A few weeks ago after a trauma, he suggested we up to 3mgs. Almost immediately it made me nauseous. So I went down to 2.5. Back up to 3 again. I have an appointment with him today to talk about it. I also find this medication to be expensive.

1

ShapeCreated with Sketch.thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

Condition: Additional Medications to Treat Depression

Overall rating 2.7

EffectivenessEase of UseSatisfaction

It did not work very well for me, I took it for around 4-6 months, made me gain weight and tired, that's about it

1

ShapeCreated with Sketch.thumb_up copy 5Created with Sketch.

Report this post

Fill 3Created with Sketch.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT USER-GENERATED CONTENT ON WEBMD

The opinions expressed in WebMD User-generated content areas like communities, reviews, ratings, or blogs are solely those of the User, who may or may not have medical or scientific training. These opinions do not represent the opinions of WebMD. User-generated content areas are not reviewed by a WebMD physician or any member of the WebMD editorial staff for accuracy, balance, objectivity, or any other reason except for compliance with our Terms and Conditions.

Read More

Rexulti Review | Effective for Schizophrenia and Depression? – Illuminate Labs

Disclaimer: None of the information in this article constitutes medical advice, and is just the opinion of the writer(s). We recommend that patients follow their doctor’s guidance in regard to prescription medication.

Rexulti is a prescription medication approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat schizophrenia, and to treat depression when combined with other drugs. 

The generic version of the drug is called brexpiprazole, and we’ll use these terms interchangeably throughout this article because they refer to the same active drug ingredient.

Is Rexulti actually proven to be effective for both depression and schizophrenia? Is it more effective for one or the other? Does the drug cause concerning side effects? And how do real users describe its effects?

In this article we'll answer all of these questions and more as we review clinical studies on Rexulti to give our take on whether it's effective for depression and schizophrenia, document its side effects, explain whether the drug causes weight gain and share real, unsponsored user reviews of Rexulti.

Is Rexulti Effective for Depression?

As referenced in the intro to this article, Rexulti is only approved by the FDA to treat depression as an adjunctive therapy, meaning it’s taken in combination with another antidepressant. It is not approved to treat depression alone.

A medical review published in the CNS Drugs journal examined the efficacy of Rexulti as an adjunctive therapy for major depressive disorder (MDD). The researchers analyzed data from over 30 clinical trials.

The study authors found that Rexulti combined with an antidepressant was more effective for treating depression than an antidepressant alone. They noted that Rexulti adjunctive use “significantly improved the symptoms of depression.” Not only did adjunctive Rexulti improve symptoms of depression, but the drug also caused improvements in secondary health categories that often overlap with depression, including anxiety, irritability and sleep issues.

A separate meta-study from 2016 analyzed whether adjunctive Rexulti was effective for treating depression in patients with both anxiety and depression. The drug was found effective at a dose range between 2 milligrams (mg) and 3 mg daily.

We will conclude from the available medical research that Rexulti is effective for treating depression when used as an adjunctive therapy, and may also be effective for patients with both anxiety and depression.

Is Rexulti Effective for Schizophrenia?

Unlike its use for depression, Rexulti can be prescribed as a standalone treatment for schizophrenia. A medical review published in the well-respected Drugs journal analyzed data from many clinical trials on Rexulti as a schizophrenia treatment.

The medication was found to be effective, increasing patient response rate by 10%. This means that around 10% more patients experienced reductions in schizophrenia symptoms on Rexulti than on placebo pills.

A more recent medical review replicated these positive results, finding Rexulti to be effective for schizophrenia. Patients taking Rexulti experienced fewer psychiatric symptoms related to schizophrenia, and relapsed fewer times over the course of the treatment.

We will conclude from the available research that Rexulti is effective for treating schizophrenia.

Rexulti Side Effects

Rexulti does cause side effects in some patients, and these side effects can be severe. A meta-study from 2017 documented the most common side effects of the drug. Restlessness was experienced by 4-14% of patients, headache by 4-10% of patients, sleepiness by 2-6% of patients, and tremor by 2-5% of patients.

These side effects are relatively mild. However Rexulti may cause more severe side effects in some patients.

Rexulti’s FDA label has a “black box” warning, shown above, which is the most severe type of warning issued by the FDA. The black box warning indicates that Rexulti may increase the mortality rate for elderly patients with dementia-related psychosis, and can increase suicide risk in patients aged 24 and younger.

In light of this information it may be beneficial for patients aged 24 and under and for elderly patients to speak with their doctor about alternative schizophrenia or depression medication which doesn’t confer this risk.

Real, Unsponsored Rexulti User Review

One of the most popular YouTube reviews on Rexulti is published by a creator named "joeytalks." He explains the effects of the drug that he experienced, and side effects he experienced:

Does Rexulti Cause Weight Gain?

Patients are often curious about whether Rexulti causes weight gain as a side effect. This is a good question, given that many antipsychotic medications do cause weight gain as we documented in our aripiprazole reviews article on another drug used for schizophrenia.

Rexulti does appear to cause weight gain based on medical studies. A review published in the International Clinical Psychopharmacology journal examined the effects of Rexulti on body weight in patients using the drug for depression and for schizophrenia.

Both groups experienced weight gain, but average weight gain was lower in the group using Rexulti for depression than for schizophrenia. Depressed patients gained an average of 4.63 pounds after one year on the drug. Schizophrenic patients gained an average of 7.05 pounds after a year on Rexulti.

This data suggests that overweight and obese patients may wish to speak with their doctor about alternative schizophrenia or depression medications that are not associated with weight gain.

Should I Take Rexulti Generic?

Patients are often curious about whether they should take the generic or branded version of a drug, given that generic versions are often much cheaper. This consideration is typically more significant for patients without health insurance.

In the case of Rexulti, the generic version of the drug is not yet commercially available according to GoodRx. Sometimes drug manufacturers hold a patent that allows them to be the exclusive retailer of a medication for a set number of years.

We do recommend that patients on Rexulti speak with their doctor every year or so about whether a generic version has become available, because medical research proves that generic versions of drugs are equally effective to branded versions, and can be significantly cheaper.

Rexulti Cost

If a patient is based in the U.S., the cost of Rexulti will vary significantly based on whether or not they have health insurance. According to Rexulti’s official website, patients with health insurance through a private program or through government programs like Medicaid will pay somewhere between $3.76 and $30.60 per month.  

The above-linked Cost resource page on Rexulti’s site suggests that patients on government health programs typically pay less than patients on private health programs.

For patients without health insurance, the average retail price of Rexulti is currently $1,685.83 according to SingleCare.

Given the vast price difference between the uninsured and insured price, we would definitely recommend that patients considering this medication speak with their health insurer about whether it’s covered.

Rexulti Dosage

The dosage of Rexulti varies based on the condition it’s being used to treat.

According to the FDA label linked previously in this article, the typical starting dose of Rexulti for depression is 0.5 mg per day, and the maximum dose is 3 mg per day.

The typical starting dose of Rexulti for schizophrenia is 0.5 mg per day, and the maximum dose is 4 mg per day.

Doctors will typically start patients on the lowest dose in the therapeutic range because this will minimize the risk of side effects. If the patient experiences benefit on the lowest dose, this is a beneficial outcome and they can typically continue using that dose. Some patients may experience no benefit on the lower doses, and their doctor may titrate their dose up to the maximum allowed over the course of weeks or months.

Our Mental Wellness Recommendation

We recommend a platform called Brightside to patients on a mental health journey. It's an online therapy and medication platform that connects patients with licensed therapists and doctors from the comfort of their home.

A medical review published in the Clinical Psychology & Psychotherapy journal found that online therapy was equally effective to in-person therapy for treating depression, anxiety and PTSD. Therapy may be a good first option for patients who want to avoid the side effects of medication.

Brightside also can connect patients with licensed psychiatrists that can prescribe medication. Some patients choose only therapy, some choose only medication, and some choose both. The brand reports that 86% of members feel significantly better within 12 weeks of treatment.

Patients with and without health insurance can use Brightside. For many patients with health insurance, treatment is entirely covered by insurance.

The cost for medication without health insurance is capped at $95/month and the cost for therapy without health insurance is capped at $299/month.

Interested patients can check out Brightside at this link to the brand's website.

Rexulti User Reviews

Over 300 patients have reviewed Rexulti on Drugs.com, which is a website that allows patients to publish personal reviews about prescription medications.

The average rating of Rexulti for depression at the time of writing this article is 6.4/10, and the drug’s average rating for schizophrenia is 5.1/10.

The top positive review of Rexulti for depression is published by a user named “Kay” who claims that the drug fixed their depression symptoms and improved their quality of life:

“It took me almost 2 years & many drugs until I was put on Rexulti, & it has honestly changed my life. I am happy, can take care of my children and most importantly I am not wanting to end my life anymore. I didn’t think a medication could help me. Depression is a very serious disease but there CAN be relief.”

The top negative review of Rexulti for depression comes from a user named “lrivera1902” who claims the drug was ineffective and caused weight gain:

I took rexulti for 5 months. I gained 20lbs even doing weight watchers. I stopped taking it because it was not working anyways. I hate antipsycotic drugs. I have struggled with my weight for years and they do nothing but add to the problem. I would rather learn to deal with my depression then take anymore drugs at this point in my life.”

The top positive review of Rexulti for schizophrenia is written by a user named “SAJ” who claims the drug was effective and improved their sleep:

“Dr. switched me to Rexulti because of studies showing it helps with PTSD and within 3 days I felt so so much better. I was less paranoid, less agitated, no voices, no paralysis, no EPS. Way better than Abilify ever was. I also started to sleep 6-8 hrs straight every night. It is like it just reset something in my brain and I began to sleep again.”

The top negative review of Rexulti for schizophrenia comes from a user named “Shell” who is writing on behalf of her daughter and claims the drug caused significant side effects:

She developed hiccups on and off with this med and her body temperature was going hit and cold she then became very confused and could not focus then extremely depressed and I took her to the emergency room where 16 hrs later she had a grand mal seizure.”

Stay up-to-date on our research reviews

Conclusion

Rexulti is effective for treating major depression when taken with certain other medications and schizophrenia when taken alone, but the drug does cause severe side effects in some patients. Rexulti may increase suicide risk in young adults and children, and may increase mortality rates in elderly patients with pre-existing medical conditions.

Rexulti does cause weight gain based on medical research, so it may not be the best option for patients who are overweight or obese.

The cost of Rexulti varies significantly depending on health insurance coverage, so we recommend that patients speak with both their insurer and doctor to confirm the cost of the drug.


Read Next

The Ordinary Multi-Peptide Lash and Brow Serum Review: Guaranteed Lash Growth?

• cosmetics

Is Diet Coke Bad For You? An Ingredient Review

• fast food

Is Coffee Bad For You? A Research Review

• coffee

Monistat 1 Review: Can Yeast Infections Be Cured OTC?

• women's health

What's the Healthiest Cereal? An RD Answers

• nutrition

CeraVe Resurfacing Retinol Serum Review: Can it Heal Damaged Skin?

• acne treatment

Waterdrop Review: Healthier Than MiO?

• hydration

Is Dave's Killer Bread Healthy? An Ingredient Review

• nutrition

Redken Shampoo Review: Can It Make Hair 7x Smoother?

• shampoo

Is Emergen-C Unhealthy? An Ingredient Review

• immune support

Choq Review: Can Shilajit Boost Testosterone?

• men's health

Laura Geller Makeup Review: Does it Contain Toxic Additives?

• cosmetics

Noocube Review: Does It Have Nootropic Effects?

• nootropics

Buff City Soap Review: Safer Than Regular Soap?

• personal care products

Is Touchland Hand Sanitizer Unhealthy? We Investigate

• personal care products

Introstem Review: Skincare Costing the Price of Gold?

• anti-aging

K3 Spark Mineral Review: A Dangerous Supplement?

• weight loss

City Lips Review: Skincare Magic or Overpriced?

• cosmetics

Factor Meals Review: Overpriced or Worth It?

• diet

Kristin Ess Shampoo Review: High Quality at Low Prices?

• shampoo

NeuroQ Review: Can A Supplement Improve Memory?

• nootropics

Phenocal Review: Can A Pill Cause Dramatic Weight Loss?

• weight loss

Native Shampoo Review: Healthier Than Regular Shampoo?

• shampoo

Nutella Ingredient Review: Is The Popular Snack Unhealthy?

• nutrition

Seint Makeup Review: Is It The Cleanest Makeup Brand?

• cosmetics

Detoxify Mega Clean Review: Can It Reduce Toxins?

• detox

Klinio Review: Can An App Reverse Diabetes?

• diabetes

Supergoop Sunscreen Review: Does it Have Toxic Ingredients?

• sunscreen

Nugenix Thermo Review: Do Fat Burning Pills Really Work?

• weight loss

Disco Eye Stick Review: Effective Eye Bag Treatment?

• skincare

Bye Bye Belly Juice Review: Can Juice Cause Weight Loss?

• detox

Transformation Protein Review: Are the Added Ingredients Safe?

• protein

Nushape Lipo Wrap Review: Red Lights for Weight Loss?

• health device

Golden Revive + Review: Pain Relief in a Pill?

• pain relief

Benefiber Review: A Taste-Free Health Booster?

• fiber

Everyday Dose Review: Does Nootropic Coffee Work?

• coffee

Nu Biome Review: Can Pink Powder Improve Gut Health?

• gut health

Gotucream Review: Can An Herbal Cream Heal Skin?

• skincare

Burn Evolved Review: Will it Really "Torch" Body Fat?

• weight loss

Feastables Review: Is Mr.

Beast's Chocolate Healthy?

• nutrition

Is MiO Bad For You? A Registered Dietitian Answers

• hydration

Dermalogica Review: Does Professional Grade Skincare Work?

• skincare

Ghost Protein Review: The Best Protein or Overpriced?

• protein

Fairlife Protein Shake Review: Healthy or Not?

• protein

Arbonne Review: The Best Protein and Energy Brand?

• protein

Earth Breeze Review: Safer Than Regular Detergent?

• personal care products

Calibrate Weight Loss Review: Better Than Drugs Alone?

• weight loss

Perbelle CC Cream Review: Do 3-in-1 Creams Work?

• cosmetics


Read More Anti-Aging Articles


Visit Illuminate Health

All About Vraylar - asia-pharm.

com

Boxed Warnings

Vrylar has a warning about the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in young people and children. Vraylar also has a warning about an increased risk of death in older adults with dementia-related psychosis. Boxed warnings are serious Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warnings.

For more information, see "What are the side effects of Vraylar?" section below.

Show more

What is Vrylar?

Your doctor may recommend Vraylar for certain mental health conditions.

Vrylar is a prescription drug used to treat:

  • mixed or manic episodes in adults with bipolar I disorder
  • bipolar depression in adults with bipolar I disorder
  • schizophrenia in adults
  • 3 More for these terms and how Vraylar is used, see What is Vraylar used for? section below.

    Vrylar Basics

    Vrylar is classified as an antipsychotic drug. (The classification of medicines refers to the group of medicines to which they belong. )

    Vraylar contains the active substance cariprazine. Vraylar does not come in a generic version.

    Vrylar comes as a capsule that you swallow.

    Continue reading to learn about Vraylar's side effects, dosage, FAQs and more.

    What are the side effects of Vraylar?

    Like most medicines, Vraylar can cause mild or serious side effects. The lists below describe some of the more common side effects Vrylar may cause. These lists do not include all possible side effects.

    Be aware that the side effects of the drug may depend on:

    • your age
    • other health conditions you have
    • other medicines you take

    Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you more about the possible side effects of Vraylar. They may also suggest ways to reduce side effects.

    Mild Side Effects

    Here is a short list of some of the mild side effects Vraylar may cause. For other mild side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist, or read Vraylar prescribing information.

    Mild side effects reported with Vraylar:

    • akathisia (feeling restless and strong desire to move, mainly in the legs)
    • feeling sleepy or tired
    • nausea and vomiting
    • movements slow or more difficult than usual
    • muscle stiffness
    • repetitive body parts that you cannot control)
    • excessive salivation (drooling)
    • upset stomach
    • headache
    • constipation
    • dizziness
    • weight gain*

    Mild side effects of many medications can go away within a few days to a couple of weeks. But if they become bothersome, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

    * For more information about this side effect, see the "Focus on Side Effects" section below.

    Serious side effects

    Serious side effects of Vraylar may occur but are not common. If you have serious side effects of Vraylar, call your doctor right away. But if you think you need a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.

    Reported serious side effects of Vraylar include:

    • tardive dyskinesia (occasional movements of the tongue, head, neck, legs, or arms that you cannot control)
    • risk of falling due to movement problems or dizziness
    • Seizures
    • Trouble swallowing
    • Increased risk of heat stroke or overheating due to problems regulating body temperature
    • orthostatic hypotension (drop in blood pressure when standing or sitting)
    • changes in blood test results, including:
      • low white blood cell count
      • high cholesterol or triglycerides
      • lead to diabetes
    • neuroleptic malignant syndrome (a serious reaction that rarely occurs with antipsychotics)
    • warnings in the frame: *
      • The risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in young people and children
      • An increased risk of death in the elderly with a psychosis associated with dementia
    • Allergic reaction *

    * For more information about this side effect, see the "Focus on Side Effects" section below.

    Do the side effects of Vraylar go away?

    Some side effects of Vrylar should disappear with time. Others may be long term.

    Be aware that it takes a long time to create Vraylar on your system. Because of this, some side effects may appear after a while and also disappear.

    Short term side effects. Some mild side effects of Vraylar usually last from a few weeks to months. Some examples of these short-term side effects include nausea, upset stomach, headache, and feeling sleepy. Over time, these side effects should subside as your body gets used to the drug. Short-term side effects may return for a while if your doctor increases the dosage.

    Long-term side effects. Some of the side effects of Vraylar are long-term, but manageable. The doctor will monitor you and prescribe treatment if necessary. Some examples of these side effects and treatments include:

    • high blood sugar, which can be treated with metformin (Fortamet, Glumetza), insulin, or other diabetes medications
    • high cholesterol or triglycerides, which can be treated with statins, such as atorvastatin (Lipitor), or fibrates such as fenofibrate (Triglide, Tricor)

    Akathisia. One of the most common side effects of Vraylar is a movement disorder called akathisia. With akathisia, you feel restless and have a strong need to constantly move, mostly with your feet. Tell your doctor if you notice this side effect, which may be short or long term. They may reduce your dosage or force you to stop taking the drug.

    Tardive dyskinesia. Another possible long term side effect of Vraylar is tardive dyskinesia. This includes random movements of your tongue, head, neck, legs, or arms that you cannot control. Tardive dyskinesia is a side effect that can occur after taking Vraylar for a long time or after stopping the drug.

    Other long-term side effects of Vraylar are possible. If you have questions about the risk of side effects from a medicine, talk to your doctor.

    Focus on side effects

    Find out more about some of the side effects Vraylar may cause.

    Boxed Warnings

    Vrylar has Boxed WarningsReliable source. The boxed warning is a serious Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warning.

    Risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in young people and children. Vrylar has a warning about the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in young people (age 24 and under) and children. The risk is highest for people who have recently started taking Vraylar or have recently changed their dosage. It is important to note that Vraylar is not prescribed for children.

    Increased risk of death in older people with dementia-related psychosis. Vraylar use is associated with an increased risk of death in older adults (aged 65 years and over) with psychosis associated with dementia. (Psychosis is a loss of awareness of reality. Dementia is problems with thinking, memory, and communication.) Vrylar belongs to a group of drugs called antipsychotics. These drugs are known to increase the risk of death in older people with dementia-related psychosis.

    Antipsychotics may also increase the risk of stroke in people with this dementia-related psychosis. And in some cases, a stroke can lead to death. Symptoms of a stroke include:

    • Weakness on one side of the body, usually in the person, hand or leg
    • Headache
    • Slurious speech
    • Problems of vision or walking

    What can help help

    years or older and you have dementia-related psychosis, your doctor will likely not prescribe Vraylar. They can tell you about other treatment options that may be safer.

    If you develop symptoms of a stroke while taking Vraylar, call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.

    If you are 24 or younger, your doctor will monitor you very closely if Vraylar is prescribed. You, your family, your friends, and your doctor should be on the lookout for any symptoms of depression or suicidal behavior. You or your loved ones should talk to your doctor immediately if you have thoughts of harming yourself.

    If you have questions about whether Vraylar is safe for you, talk to your doctor.

    SUICIDE PREVENTION

    If you think someone is at immediate risk of harming themselves or others:

    • Call 911 or your local emergency number.
    • Stay with the person until help arrives.
    • Remove all weapons, knives, medicines, and other items that could cause harm.
    • Listen, but don't judge, argue, threaten or yell.

    If you or someone you know is thinking about suicide, get help from a crisis or suicide prevention hotline. Call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 800-273-8255.

    Weight gain

    Weight gain is a possible side effect of Vrylar.

    Vraylar belongs to a group of medicines called antipsychotics. These drugs are known to cause changes in your metabolism (how your body converts calories into energy). These changes can lead to weight gain in some people.

    In Vraylar's studies, weight gain was more common in people taking the drug for schizophrenia. This was compared to people who took Vraylar to treat bipolar depression or mixed or manic episodes of bipolar I disorder.

    What can help

    Your doctor will monitor your weight regularly while you are taking Vraylar.

    Physical activity can help you achieve or maintain a healthy weight for you. Before starting a new exercise program, talk to your doctor. This is because Vraylar can cause problems with body temperature regulation. Too much exercise, especially in hot weather, may increase the risk of heat stroke or overheating while taking Vraylar.

    To help prevent or limit weight gain, it is also important to eat a balanced diet. This may include eating fewer processed foods, sweets, and fried foods. Consider talking to a registered dietitian to learn more about healthy eating that's right for you.

    Allergic reaction

    Some people may have an allergic reaction to Vraylar. It is not clear how often allergic reactions occurred in studies of the drug.

    Symptoms of a mild allergic reaction may include:

    • skin rash
    • itching
    • redness (temporary fever, redness or discoloration of the skin)

    A more severe allergic reaction is rare but possible. Symptoms of a severe allergic reaction may include swelling under the skin, usually on the eyelids, lips, hands, or feet. They may also include swelling of the tongue, mouth, or throat, which can cause breathing problems.

    Call your doctor right away if you have an allergic reaction to Vraylar. But if you think you need a medical emergency, call 911 or your local emergency number.

    What is the dosage of Vraylar?

    Your doctor will recommend the dosage of Vraylar that is right for you. The following are commonly used dosages, but always take the dosage your doctor prescribes for .

    Vrylar Form

    Vrylar comes in a capsule that you swallow.

    Vraylar Strengths: 1.5 mg, 3 mg, 4.

    5 mg, 6 mg

    Vraylar capsules come in four strengths: 1.5 milligrams (mg), 3 mg, 4.5 mg and 6 mg.

    Recommended Dosage

    You will take Vraylar once a day, with or without food.

    Doctors usually prescribe a low starting dose of Vraylar. They can then increase your dosage over time until they find one that is right for you.

    It is important not to take more than the maximum dose of Vraylar prescribed by your doctor.

    Vraylar Dosage Questions

    Here are a few questions you may have about Vraylar dosage and the answers to them.

    • What if I miss a dose of Vraylar? If you miss a dose of Vraylar, take it as soon as possible, unless it's time for your next dose. In this case, skip the missed dose. Then take the next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose. To make sure you don't miss a dose, try setting an alarm or using a reminder app on your phone.
    • Do I need to take Vraylar for a long time? Vraylar can be used as a long term or short term treatment. It is intended for the long-term treatment of schizophrenia. When used to treat bipolar depression or mixed or manic episodes of bipolar I disorder, Vraylar may be used short-term. After your symptoms improve, your doctor may prescribe another medication for long-term use. In studies of people taking Vraylar for the treatment of bipolar depression, mixed or manic episodes, the drug was taken for 6 weeks.
    • How long does Vraylar work? Vraylar may take several weeks to complete. After about 2-4 weeks, you will probably see a doctor. They may increase your dosage if your symptoms are not relieved enough. Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms throughout your treatment to see how well Vraylaris works for you.

    What are the frequently asked questions about Vraylar?

    Get answers to some common questions about Vraylar.

    Is Vraylar used to treat major depression? If yes, what is the dosage?

    Vraylar is not used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), commonly referred to as depression. The drug does not have a recommended dose for this condition.

    Vraylar is approved for the treatment of bipolar depression (and certain other conditions) in adults. But this state is not the same as MDD. Bipolar depression is an episode of very low mood that occurs in a person with bipolar disorder.

    It is possible that a doctor may prescribe Vraylar for MDD if they feel it is the best choice. But this will be the use of the drug not for its intended purpose. (Off-label drug use is when a drug is prescribed for a purpose for which it was not approved.)

    In this situation, the physician should determine the dosage based on relevant clinical studies and their expert judgment.

    To learn more about using Vraylar, see What is Vraylar used for? ” below or talk to your doctor.

    How does Vraylar work? And how long does it stay on your system?

    Vraylar's mechanism of action (how the drug works in the body) is not exactly known. The drug is thought to affect the activity of two brain chemicals: dopamine and serotonin. These brain chemicals are involved in regulating your mood, thoughts, and behavior. By acting on dopamine and serotonin, Vraylar may relieve symptoms of schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder.

    In terms of how long Vrylar stays in your body, the half-life of the drug is about 1 week. Reliable source. (The half-life of a drug is the time it takes for half a dose to be eliminated from your body.) If your doctor has told you not to take Vraylar, the effects of the drug may last up to 1 to 4 weeks after your last dose. dose. Traces of the drug may remain in your body for up to 8 weeks or longer.

    Does stopping Vraylar cause withdrawal symptoms? Can you stop taking this "cold turkey"?

    No. Discontinuation of Vraylar treatment, including discontinuation of its "cold turkey", should not cause a withdrawal syndrome. The effect of the drug wears off some time after the last dose. (See the FAQ above for more information on this.)

    Stopping treatment with Vraylar may cause your symptoms to return or worsen. Some people may need hospital treatment if their symptoms of schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder become severe.

    Please note that you should not stop taking Vraylar on your own. Be sure to talk to your doctor before changing or stopping any treatment.

    Is there an interaction between Vraylar and caffeine?

    No, caffeine does not interact with Vraylar. Caffeine is a stimulant in coffee, tea, and some other drinks and foods.

    Caffeine interacts with lithium, a drug your doctor may prescribe with Vraylar to treat bipolar I disorder. Caffeine can make lithium less effective than usual.

    Be aware that consuming large amounts of caffeine when you have a mental disorder may cause or worsen certain symptoms. These may include anxiety, mania (high mood), and insomnia (trouble sleeping).

    To give yourself the best chance of successful treatment, consider limiting your caffeine intake. If you have questions about consuming caffeine with Vraylar, talk to your doctor.

    Is Vraylar similar to alternative drugs such as Rexulti and Seroquel?

    Yes. Vraylar, brexpiprazole (Rexulti), and quetiapine (Seroquel) are similar. They belong to a group of drugs called antipsychotics. The three drugs also have similar uses and potential side effects.

    All of these drugs are used to treat certain mental illnesses. Vrylar is for use in adults only. Rexulti and Seroquel are used in adults and, under certain conditions, in some children.

    For other similarities and differences, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

    Does Vraylar treat anxiety or borderline personality disorder?

    No, Vraylar is not used to treat anxiety disorders. It is also not used to treat borderline personality disorder. The drug has not been approved for the treatment of these conditions.

    Vraylar is approved for the treatment of mixed or manic episodes of bipolar I disorder. The drug is also approved for the treatment of schizophrenia, as well as bipolar depression in bipolar I disorder. For approved use cases for Vraylar, see What is Vraylar used for? section below.

    If you are looking for treatment options for anxiety or borderline personality disorder, talk to your doctor.

    Is Vraylar an SSRI? Also, is it a controlled substance?

    No, Vraylar is not a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). SSRIs are antidepressants that are used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, among other things. Vrylar is a kind of drug called a neuroleptic.

    Vrylar is also not a controlled substance. A controlled substance is a drug that can be misused or addictive. Abuse is when a drug is taken in a way that is not prescribed by the doctor, or when the dose is too high. And in order to be addicted to a drug, your body needs it to feel the way you normally would.

    Because of these risks, the government has developed special regulations restricting the prescription and dispensing of controlled substances. But these risks and rules do not apply to Vraylar.

    What is Vraylar used for?

    Vraylar is used to treat the following mental illnesses:

    • mixed or manic episodes in adults with bipolar I disorder
    • bipolar depression in adults with bipolar I disorder
    • schizophrenia in adults

    Bipolar Type I disorder. When you have bipolar I disorder, you have obvious changes in mood and behavior. You have periods of bipolar depression, also called depressive episodes, when you feel down, hopeless, or lethargic. Depressive episodes usually last at least 2 weeks.

    You also have periods of bipolar mania, also called manic episodes, during which you feel elated or extremely energetic. Manic episodes last at least 7 days or become so severe that hospitalization is required.

    Mixed episodes are also possible, in which depressive (low mood) and manic (high mood) symptoms appear simultaneously.

    Schizophrenia . Schizophrenia is a chronic (long-term) mental disorder. Here are a few examples of common symptoms:

    • hallucinations (seeing, hearing or feeling things that are not there)
    • delusions (strong belief in something that has been proven false)
    • unusual behavior and emotions or lack of emotion
    • erratic speech or thought

    What Vraylar does. Experts don't know exactly how Vrylar treats bipolar I disorder or schizophrenia. The drug is thought to affect the activity of two brain chemicals, dopamine and serotonin. These brain chemicals are involved in regulating your mood, thoughts, and behavior. By influencing dopamine and serotonin, Vraylar can relieve the symptoms of diseases.

    How much does Vrylar cost?

    The cost of prescription drugs can vary depending on many factors. These factors include what your insurance plan covers and which pharmacy you use. For current Vraylar capsule prices in your area, please visit GoodRx. com.

    If you have questions about how to pay for a prescription, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. You can also visit the manufacturer's Vraylar website to see if there are support options.

    Also, you can read this article to learn more about saving money on prescriptions.

    What should I know about Vraylar vs. Abilify?

    If you want to know how Vraylar and Abilify compare, see this article. You can also talk to your doctor about which drug is right for you.

    What should I consider before taking Vraylar?

    There are several important things to discuss with your doctor when considering treatment with Vraylar. These include your general health, any medications or supplements you are taking, and any medical conditions you may have.

    Interactions

    Taking the medicine with some vaccines, foods and other things can affect how the medicine works. These effects are called interactions.

    Be sure to tell your doctor about all medicines you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, before taking Vraylar. Also describe any vitamins, herbs, or supplements you use. Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you about any interactions these items may cause with Vraylar.

    Drug or supplement interactions

    Vrylar may interact with several drugs. Some examples of such drugs include:

    • some antifungals such as ketoconazole
    • some anticonvulsants such as carbamazepine (tegretol, equetro)
    • the antibiotic rifampin (rifadin)

    This list does not contain all types of drugs that may interact with Vraylar. Your doctor or pharmacist can tell you more about these interactions and any others that may occur.

    Boxed Warnings

    Vrylar has boxed warningsA reliable source. These are serious warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) about exposure to drugs that can be dangerous.

    These warnings include:

    • Risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in young people and children. In rare cases, treatment with Vraylar may cause suicidal thoughts and behavior in young adults (aged 24 years and younger) and children. It is important to note that Vraylar is not approved for use in children.
    • Increased risk of death in older people with dementia-related psychosis. Antipsychotics such as Vraylar are associated with an increased risk of death in some older people. More specifically, adults aged 65 and over with dementia-related psychosis. (Psychosis is a loss of awareness of reality. Dementia refers to problems with thinking, memory, and communication.)

    For more information on these warnings, see What are the side effects of Vrylar?. section above.

    Other warnings

    Vrylar may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions or other health conditions. Talk to your doctor about your medical history before taking Vraylar. Factors to consider include those listed in the list below.

    • Elderly people with dementia associated with psychosis. This warning is in addition to the boxed warning about increased risk of death for this group described above. Older adults with dementia-related psychosis may have an increased risk of stroke or microstroke while taking antipsychotic medications. (Vrylar is a kind of antipsychotic drug.) If you're 65 or older and have dementia-related psychosis, your doctor likely won't prescribe Vrylar.
    • Diabetes. Vraylar may cause an increase in blood sugar. If you already have diabetes, taking this medicine may make your condition worse. If you have diabetes and are taking Vraylar, your doctor will likely recommend changes to your diabetes care plan.
    • Problems with cholesterol. Vraylar may cause changes in cholesterol or triglyceride levels. If you already have cholesterol problems, taking the drug may make your condition worse. If you have a cholesterol problem and are taking Vraylar, your doctor will likely recommend changes to your cholesterol treatment plan.
    • Convulsions. Vraylar may increase your risk of seizures, especially if you have had seizures in the past. If you have had seizures or epilepsy, talk to your doctor before taking Vraylar. They can discuss the pros and cons of the available treatment options with you.
    • Elderly people. If you are 65 or older, you are more likely to experience some of the side effects of Vraylar. Some examples include falls, dizziness, heat stroke, and movement problems. Another example is orthostatic hypotension (drop in blood pressure when standing up or sitting down). If you are in this age group, your doctor will likely prescribe you a lower dose of Vraylar than usual. They will also monitor you closely for side effects during treatment.
    • Serious liver or kidney problems. It is not known for sure if Vraylar is safe for people with severe liver or kidney disease. Your doctor can help determine if another medicine is right for you.
    • Low white blood cell count. Vraylar may cause a lower than normal white blood cell count. If your levels have been low in the past, tell your doctor before taking Vraylar. They will likely order a blood test to determine if Vraylar is a safe option for you.
    • Stroke or heart disease. Vraylar may cause orthostatic hypotension (drop in blood pressure when standing up or sitting down). If you have heart disease or have had a stroke, taking Vraylar may make your condition worse. Your doctor can help determine if Vraylar is right for you.
    • Allergic reaction. If you have had an allergic reaction to Vraylar or any of its ingredients, your doctor will likely not prescribe Vraylar. Ask them what other medicines might be the best options for you.

    Vraylar and alcohol

    Drinking alcohol while taking Vraylar may increase the risk of some of the drug's side effects. This is because alcohol and Vraylar can cause the same side effects such as nausea, upset stomach, dizziness, and drowsiness.

    Drinking alcohol can also make some symptoms of mental illness worse, such as depression.

    If you drink alcohol, talk to your doctor about how much is safe to drink if you are taking Vraylar.

    Pregnancy and lactation

    Here is some information about Vraylar, pregnancy and breastfeeding.

    Pregnancy. Vraylar is not safe to take during pregnancy. The use of the drug during pregnancy has not been studied.

    If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor. They will explain the risks and benefits of Vrylar.

    If you are taking Vraylar while pregnant, consider registering with the National Pregnancy Psychiatric Drug Registry. This registry collects information about the safety of antipsychotics during pregnancy. To learn more about this pregnancy registry, talk to your doctor. You can also call 866-961-2388 or visit the registry website.

    Breastfeeding. It is not known if Vraylar is safe to take while breastfeeding. The effect of the drug on breast milk and breastfeeding children has not been studied.

    If you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, talk to your doctor. They will help you decide on a treatment or nutrition plan that is right for you and your child.

    How is Vraylar taken?

    Your doctor will tell you how you should take Vraylar. They will also explain how much to take and how often. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions.

    Taking Vrylar

    Vrylar comes in a capsule that you swallow. The drug is available in four dosages: 1.5 milligrams (mg), 3 mg, 4.5 mg and 6 mg.

    You will take Vraylar at about the same time each day. You may take your doses with or without food.

    Available drug containers and labels

    Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have difficulty reading a prescription label. Some pharmacies may provide drug labels that:

    • large print
    • use braille
    • contain a code that can be scanned by a smartphone to convert text into sound.

    Your doctor or pharmacist can recommend a pharmacy that offers these options if your current pharmacy does not have them.

    Also, if you have problems opening medicine bottles, tell your pharmacist. Maybe they can put Vrylar in an easy-to-open container. Your pharmacist may also recommend tools to help open the medication container.

    Taking Vraylar with other medications

    Doctors often prescribe Vraylar with other types of medications. They may vary depending on the condition being treated. Some examples are:

    • antidepressants such as bupropion (wellbutrin)
    • other neuroleptics such as risperidone (Risperdal)
    • mood stabilizers such as lithium
    • anticonvulsants such as lamotrigine (lamiktal)

      0004 If you have any questions about taking Vraylar with other medicines, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

      Questions about taking Vraylar

      Here are some common questions and answers about taking Vraylar.

      • Can Vraylar capsules be opened, chewed or split? Vrylar comes as a capsule that you take by mouth. It must be swallowed whole. It is not known if it is safe to open the capsules. If you have trouble swallowing tablets, talk to your doctor. They may suggest another treatment option.
      • Should I take Vraylar with food? Food does not affect Vraylar. You may take your doses with or without food.
      Questions to ask your doctor

      You may have questions about Vraylar and your treatment plan. It is important to discuss all your concerns with your doctor.

      Here are some tips to help guide your discussion:

      • Write down your questions before the meeting, for example:
        • How will Vraylar affect my body, mood, or lifestyle?
      • Take someone with you to the meeting if it makes you feel more comfortable.
      • If you don't understand something about your condition or treatment, ask your doctor to explain it to you.

      Remember that your doctor and other healthcare professionals are always available to help you. And they want you to get the best possible care. So don't be afraid to ask questions or offer feedback about your treatment.

      What should I know about Vraylar vs. Latuda?

      Check out this article for a detailed comparison of Vraylar and Latuda. To learn more and find out which drug is right for your condition, ask your doctor.

      What to do in case of an overdose?

      Do not take more Vraylar than prescribed by your doctor. Taking more can lead to serious side effects.

      Overdose symptoms

      Overdose symptoms may include:

      • feeling very sleepy
      • orthostatic hypotension (drop in blood pressure when standing or sitting)

      What to do if you take too much Vraylar

      Call your doctor if you think you have taken too much Vraylar. You can also call 800-222-1222 to contact the American Association of Poison Control Centers or use their online resource . However, if you have severe symptoms, call 9 immediately11 or your local emergency number. Or go to the nearest emergency room.

      What to ask your doctor

      If you have certain mental disorders, your doctor may prescribe Vraylar for you. They can tell you more about the pros and cons of Vraylar and other treatments for bipolar disorder and schizophrenia.

      When you are considering taking Vraylar, it is important to ask your doctor any questions you may have. Here are some questions to start the conversation:

      • Do my other medical conditions increase my risk of side effects from Vraylar?
      • Should I stop taking any other medicines when I start treatment with Vraylar?
      • Can I take Vraylar with vitamins?
      • Is it safe for me to drive while taking Vraylar?

      You can learn about new treatment options and more by subscribing to the bipolar disorder newsletter.

      Ask a pharmacist

      Q:

      Do doctors prescribe Vraylar along with Adderall? If so, is it safe to take them at the same time?

      Anonymous

      A:

      Physicians do not usually prescribe Vrylar along with stimulant drugs such as amphetamine and dextroamphetamine (Adderall).

      This is because Adderall may worsen the symptoms of schizophrenia or bipolar I disorder for which Vraylar is being used. For example, Adderall may cause new or worsening manic episodes or disorganized speech or thoughts. (During a manic episode, you may feel alert or very energetic.)

      Also, taking Adderall with Vraylar may increase the risk of some side effects from Vraylar. This includes akathisia, which is manifested by feelings of restlessness and a strong desire to move, mainly in the legs. It also includes tremors (repetitive movements of a body part that you cannot control).

      The manufacturer Vraylar did not report any interactions between Vraylar and Adderall. But if you're taking Adderall, it's best to talk to your doctor before you start taking Vraylar. They can help determine whether it is safe to take medicines together. They can suggest other treatment options if needed.

      Amber Watson, PharmD Answers represent the opinions of our medical experts. All content is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice.

      Disclaimer. The Company has made every effort to ensure that all information is accurate, complete and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and experience of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always check with your doctor or other healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained in this document is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or side effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given medicinal product does not mean that the drug or combination of drugs is safe, effective, or suitable for all patients or for all specific uses.

      Section: Depression 2022 November

      More

      What is depression? Depression, also known as major depressive disorder, is a mood disorder that makes you feel constantly sad or disinterested in life. Most people feel sad or depressed from time to time.

      Read more

      Most of us feel sad, lonely or depressed from time to time. This is a normal reaction to loss, life difficulties or hurt self-esteem. But when these feelings become overwhelming, cause physical symptoms, and last for a long period of time, they can prevent you from leading a normal, active life.

      Read more

      Everyone feels sad from time to time, but in most cases it lasts only a few days and goes away on its own. Depression is different. It interferes with your daily life and prevents you from doing what you love. You will need treatment to get better.

      Learn more

      Knowing what can increase your chances of depression can help you get better care when you need it. Risk Factors Genetics: A history of depression in your family may make it more likely for you.

      Read more

      Feeling depressed from time to time is normal, but if you are sad most of the time and it affects your daily life, you may have clinical depression. This condition can be cured with medication, in consultation with a therapist, and by changing your lifestyle.

      Read more

      It used to be that all mood disorders were lumped together. The doctor will now distinguish between the specific disorder or subtype of depression that the patient is suffering from. For example, a doctor will determine if a patient has major depression, chronic depression including dysthymia, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), bipolar disorder, or some other type of clinical depression.

      Read more

      Living with a chronic illness like depression can be unbearable. That's why it's so important to seek help from people with depression to manage your mood and enjoy life to the fullest. Whether it's your spouse, a therapist, or a depression support group, you can find many contacts to help you get much-needed support.

      Read more

      How is depression diagnosed? Despite its prevalence, depression is often ignored or misdiagnosed and left untreated. It can be life threatening; severe depression, in particular, has a high suicide rate. If you or a loved one has symptoms of depression, seek help from a qualified healthcare professional.

      More

      Psychomotor retardation is one of the main signs of major depressive disorder (MDD) or, more simply, depression. Psychomotor retardation is a slowing down or difficulty in mental or physical activity.

      Read more

      Are you worried about the complications of depression? Even in people who suffer from milder forms of depression, this mood disorder can affect many aspects of their lives. Clinical depression can complicate serious illnesses such as heart disease or cancer.

      More

      If you are one of the more than 17 million adults or 3.2 million teenagers in the United States with severe depression, you may know that treatment often fails. The latest research on this common mental disorder, also called clinical depression, is focused on helping you feel better faster and with fewer side effects.

      Read more

      Melancholic depression is a type of depression that is also called melancholia. 15-30% of people with depression have this type. Melancholic depression may have more severe symptoms than other types of depression. It can also be more difficult to treat than other types of depression.

      More

      As a condition, depression doesn't always go away on its own. In fact, depression is a risk factor for many health problems. Part of the reason is that depression can make you less willing to take care of yourself and take steps to prevent conditions like high blood pressure (also called hypertension) and diabetes.

      Read more

      Many mental and medical conditions have depression-like symptoms, such as fatigue and trouble sleeping, so you might think you have depression when it's actually something else. Here are facts about depression, diseases with similar symptoms, and how to tell them apart.

      Read more

      Is your sadness just a bad mood that will pass with time, or is it depression? Some symptoms can help you know when it's time to see a doctor. What is depression? Depression is a common mood disorder.

      Read more

      Marijuana use and depression often go hand in hand. If you are depressed, you are twice as likely to use marijuana than someone who is not. Marijuana use is on the rise in the United States as a whole, but it is growing faster among people with depression.

      Read more

      When you are dealing with an illness, you know how valuable it is to talk to someone who has been in your shoes before. This is what peer support for depression is about - getting help from someone who has dealt with it. Peer support workers are people who are recovering from mental health issues and are now doing well.

      Read more

      When a stressful event causes a period of depression, it is called situational depression. This is common and you may have experienced this at some point in your life. Situational depression is different from clinical depression. Here are the differences and what you should know about each type of depression.

      More

      Anxiety and depression are types of mood disorders. Among other things, depression causes feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and decreased energy. Anxiety creates feelings of nervousness, worry, or fear. Although the two conditions are different, you can have both at the same time.

      Read more

      Bipolar disorder was formerly called manic-depressive psychosis. It is a form of major affective or mood disorder defined by manic or hypomanic episodes (changes in normal mood accompanied by states of high energy).

      Read more

      Medicines for depression Antidepressants are medicines used to treat depression. There are many medications that can be used to treat depression. All of these antidepressants eliminate or reduce the symptoms of depression.

      Read more

      Depression is a common but serious condition that varies widely in severity. If you have a milder case, you may struggle with symptoms such as sadness, irritability, anger, and fatigue that last for weeks or longer.

      More

      What is serotonin syndrome? Serotonin syndrome is when your body has too much of a chemical called serotonin, usually due to medications or combinations of medications. Your body produces serotonin to help brain cells and other cells in the nervous system communicate with each other.

      Read more

      Persistent feelings of hopelessness and despair are a sign that you may be suffering from major depression, also known as clinical depression. When deeply depressed, it can be difficult to work, study, sleep, eat, and enjoy friends and activities.

      Read more

      Everyone feels overwhelmed from time to time. But in people with depression, the feeling of sadness can be so strong that it interferes with daily life. It can become difficult to function at home or at work, and feelings can lead to a host of physical and emotional problems.

      More

      Millions of people have tried St. John's wort, an herbal remedy, as an alternative or natural treatment for depression. Is it efficient? What is BAD? The FDA says nutritional supplements include herbs such as St. John's wort, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids.

      More

      Psychotic depression is a subtype of major depression that occurs when a major depressive illness involves some form of psychosis. Psychosis can be hallucinations (for example, a voice telling you that you are bad or worthless), delusions (for example, a strong sense of worthlessness, failure, or committing a sin), or some other break with reality.

      Read more

      It is important to learn more about depression in special situations. These situations may include depression in men, depression in women, depression in the elderly, and treatment-resistant depression. In each of these special situations, depression can have different signs and symptoms, causes, and treatments.

      Read more

      Here are the facts about depression in women: In the US, about 15 million people suffer from depression each year. Most of them are women. Unfortunately, almost two-thirds do not receive the assistance they need. Depression in women is very common. In fact, women are twice as likely to suffer from clinical depression as men.

      Read more

      Clinical depression in the elderly is common. It doesn't mean it's normal. Depression in old age affects about 6 million Americans aged 65 and over. But only 10% are cured. A likely reason is that older people often show symptoms of depression differently.

      Read more

      Have you ever wondered if your irritable or unhappy teen might actually experience teen depression? Of course, most teenagers feel miserable at times. And when you add hormonal chaos to the many other changes going on in a teenager's life, it's easy to see why their mood swings like a pendulum.

      Read more

      Can children really get depressed? Yes. Childhood depression is different from the usual blues and everyday emotions that children go through as they develop. Just because a child appears sad does not necessarily mean that they are seriously depressed.

      More

      Have you ever wondered what causes clinical depression? You may have been diagnosed with major depression and it has led you to wonder why some people get depressed and others don't. Depression is a complex illness.

      Read more

      If you think the medication you are taking may be causing your depression, you may be right. Some medicines prescribed for various diseases do cause feelings such as sadness, despair and despondency.

      More

      Clinical depression is associated with other mental illnesses such as anxiety disorders, panic disorder, social phobia and generalized anxiety disorder. Together, these conditions affect millions of Americans.

      Read more

      The thyroid gland produces and regulates thyroid hormones. These hormones can affect energy levels, mood, and even weight. They can also be factors in depression. Read on to find out what causes thyroid-related depression and how to treat it.

      More details

      The following are some depression medications (antidepressants) available in the US: Abilify (aripiprazole) - an antipsychotic used in combination with the antidepressant Adapine (doxepin) Anafranil (clomipramine) Aplenzine (bupropion) Asendine (amoxapine) Aventil hydrochloride (nortriptyline) Brexipipzol (Rexulti), an antipsychotic used in combination with an antidepressant Celexa (citalopram) Cymbalta (duloxetine) Desyrel (trazodone)

      More

      What is depression? Almost all of us sometimes feel bad, usually because of a disturbing or difficult event in our lives. But persistent sadness or despair can be caused by depression, a serious condition that needs to be treated. A good place to start is talking to your doctor.

      Read more

      Suicide is one of the leading causes of death in the US and is on the rise across the country. About 45,000 Americans committed suicide in 2016, according to the CDC. Suicide is preventable. And it starts with knowing what to look for and what to do.

      More

      To get better, you need to take an active part in your treatment. You cannot be a passive patient. You and your doctor should work as a team. Of course, you may not be able to take an active part in anything. You may doubt that treatment will help.

      Read more

      Do the winter months upset you more than you think? If so, you may have seasonal depression, also known as seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Seasonal depression is a mood disorder that occurs every year at the same time.

      More

      Sometimes called mild chronic depression, dysthymia is less severe and has fewer symptoms than major depression. With dysthymia, symptoms of depression may persist for a long period of time, often two years or longer.

      More

      For some people with severe or intractable depression, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) is the best treatment. This treatment, sometimes referred to as "electroshock therapy", is often misunderstood and misrepresented in the popular media as harsh and abusive.

      More

      Antidepressants can help relieve many symptoms of depression. But side effects are often part of the package. Some people are not fun to deal with. Others you can manage. In rare cases, they can be serious and your doctor may need to change your medication.

      Read more

      Sometimes physical problems can cause depression. But in other cases, the symptoms of depression are part of a more complex psychiatric problem. There are several different types or subtypes of depression, including: Major depressive disorder Dysthymia and chronic depression (now called persistent depressive disorder) Seasonal affective disorder Psychotic depression Bipolar depression Major depression Person with major d

      Read more

      There is no universally agreed approach to managing treatment-resistant depression, also called TRD. Your treatment will depend on your doctor's experience as well as your own needs, concerns, and medical history. But while the details may vary, most physicians follow the same basic pattern.

      More

      Not only does it take time to make an accurate diagnosis of depression, finding the right medication to treat depression can be a complex and delicate process. Someone may have serious medical problems, such as heart, liver, or kidney disease, which may make some antidepressants unsafe.

      More details

      Are you struggling with depression? Are you being treated for it? If not, you are not alone. The consequences can be devastating: personal suffering, missed work, broken marriages, health problems and, in the worst case, death. So what's stopping us from asking for help?

      More

      Antidepressants won't necessarily cure your depression, but they can help you manage your symptoms. However, finding the right medication can take trial and error. Not all medicines work for all people. It is important to know the signs that the medicine you are taking may not be right for you.

      More details

      Depression can make you feel helpless. You do not. Along with therapy and sometimes medication, there is a lot you can do on your own to fight back. Changing your behavior - your physical activity, lifestyle, and even the way you think - are all natural treatments for depression.

      Read more

      Untreated clinical depression is a serious problem. Untreated depression increases the likelihood of risky behaviors such as drug or alcohol addiction. It can also ruin relationships, cause problems at work, and make it difficult to overcome serious illnesses.

      Read more

      If medications do not relieve symptoms of clinical depression, other options may be tried. Brain stimulation techniques such as electroconvulsive therapy (ECT), for example, can be used to treat major depression that does not respond to standard treatments.

      Read more

      On February 2, 2004, Mark Miller of Overland, Kansas, spoke at a public forum in the nation's capital, speaking words no parent should ever utter: "It's important that you know," he told the advisory FDA committee.

      More

      If antidepressants aren't always safe for children, as the FDA says, then what is? Parents are confused, scared: What to do if the child has depression? First step: don't stop taking your medication. "If your child is on antidepressants, don't stop and make drastic changes," says psychiatrist David Fassler, MD of the University of Vermont College of Medicine and author of Help Me, I'm Sad, about childhood.

      More

      Children are not immune from depressiondepression. As with adults, treatment can be critical. Seeking help from a depressed child can prevent years of suffering and even save the child's life. However, the ongoing debate about the safety of antidepressants has led many to question what actually helps and what actually hurts.

      Read more

      Depression levels are on the rise, and now researchers and doctors say depression often starts in childhood. Kathleen P. Hockey is a licensed social worker who also suffered from depression. As a parent, Hockey wanted to keep her children from getting sick.

      More

      Childhood is not always a happy time, and 3% to 8% of children will experience depression as part of growing up. Fortunately, children with depression usually respond to treatment, and that treatment can mean the difference between life and death, experts say. While it's easy to blame childhood depression on 21st century life - too much stress, too little "

      Read more

      You might be surprised to know that 3% to 6% of the population is at risk for chronic (long-term) depression, which researchers call “double depression.” Like all forms of depression, double depression can cause problems with daily functioning and quality of life and carries an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behavior.

      Read more

      Depression in children is an increasingly well-known problem. Learn the symptoms of childhood depression. Sometimes kids get sad. They may act depressed. Most children overcome the worst of these symptoms within a couple of days. Some don't.

      Read more

      "Could you be depressed and not know it?" This sounds like a ridiculous question. After all, wouldn't you know if you had depression? Probably no. Depression can build up gradually without the person realizing that depressive thoughts and feelings are increasingly dominating their worldview - and their lives.

      Read more

      Sooner or later everyone gets sick. Feeling sad, alone, or heartbroken when you go through a difficult life experience is part of being human. And most of the time you can continue to function. You know you'll bounce back over time, and you do.

      More

      Atypical depression is a subtype of major depression or dysthymic disorder that includes several specific symptoms, including increased appetite or weight gain, drowsiness or excessive sleep, marked fatigue or weakness, moods that react strongly to external circumstances , and the feeling is extremely sensitive to failure.

      More

      If you are considering seeing a doctor for depression, here is information about what tests your doctor may order. First, keep in mind that not every test is a "test for depression." Some tests are not used to diagnose clinical depression, but to rule out other serious illnesses that can cause similar symptoms.

      Read more

      How do I know if I have postpartum depression? Despite the fact that postpartum depression has been known for a long time, many experts believe that it is not properly diagnosed. As knowledge about postpartum depression grows, more healthcare professionals are looking for risk factors in their patients as early as their first antenatal visit.

      More

      Your treatment plan for depression will depend on the type and severity of your depression. Some people go through psychotherapy. They may also take antidepressants or follow other treatments. Exercise can help too. If that's not enough, you have more options.

      More

      If you have been diagnosed with depression, you may have trouble falling or staying asleep. There is a reason for this. There is a definite link between lack of sleep and depression. In fact, one of the common signs of depression is insomnia, or the inability to sleep.

      Read more

      Tricyclic and tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) were among the first drugs to treat depression. Doctors don't prescribe them as often as they used to. They have been replaced by other drugs, mainly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).

      More

      Do you or your loved one suffer from depression? If so, you may know that treatments can help with this condition. But what about ways to prevent it? There is no clear answer. Most experts believe that it cannot be prevented.

      Read more

      Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) uses painless magnetic pulses to reduce symptoms of depression. You do not need to be hospitalized for rTMS, and you do not need sedation or anesthesia. Typically, five times a week, you visit a clinic or doctor's office for treatment.

      Read more

      Being a new mother can be wonderful and hard at the same time. You have many new tasks and much less sleep. You may feel emotional and sometimes depressed. What you feel is normal. So take a breath and be kind to yourself - it's good for your baby too.

      More

      What is postpartum depression? Postpartum depression (PPD) is a complex combination of physical, emotional and behavioral changes that some women experience after giving birth. According to the DSM-5, a manual for diagnosing mental disorders, BPD is a form of major depression that begins within 4 weeks of childbirth.

      Read more

      Postpartum depression affects 1 in 9 mothers and about 1 in 10 fathers after a baby is born. It comes at a vulnerable time filled with change in your life as you learn to care for a newborn. It is important to know the facts about this disease and understand that some common misconceptions are not true.

      More details

      Imagine that you have been offered an important new job. However, on the first day, you will find that the hours are so long that you will never get enough sleep to be productive. Soon you will be so tired that you will start to feel hopeless when you get a good review.

      Read more

      The birth of a child changes everything. Along with the excitement, you're juggling new responsibilities, sleep deprivation, and maybe even a little afraid of doing the right thing. These emotions can be many for everyone. But sometimes newborn moms can feel overwhelmed.

      Read more

      Having a baby is a big change in your life. You probably expect to be happy and proud of your new family member, but many moms feel overwhelmed and overwhelmed instead. It's okay to feel like this for a while.

      Read more

      So your doctor has diagnosed you with postpartum depression. Now what? First, and most importantly, don't be embarrassed or ashamed. Many new mothers experience a wide range of emotions after having a baby. You did the right thing by asking for help.

      Read more

      As a new mother, you face many challenges getting used to life with a newborn. You are also likely to be dealing with lack of sleep, new responsibilities, or even chest pain if you are breastfeeding. But what about the deep mental pain that comes after childbirth and does not subside?

      Read more

      Your doctor has prescribed you an antidepressant to improve your mood or reduce anxiety. But once you feel better, you may assume that you no longer need the medicine. So you stop taking it. And all of a sudden you feel like you have the flu, or stomach problems, or maybe you have trouble thinking and have disturbing thoughts.

      Read more

      There are many things you can do on your own to help relieve symptoms of depression. Lifestyle changes can have a big impact on your mood. However, it is not always easy to change your lifestyle. It's one thing to say that you'll exercise five days a week, sleep at least eight hours a night, and eat three healthy meals and two snacks a day.

      More details

      Is depression preventing you from feeling in control of your days? You may find that a routine helps you manage your symptoms. Try this planner to plan your day and schedule. It also works as a diary to help you keep track of your mood.

      Read more

      Want to learn more about exercise and depression? Many studies show that people who exercise regularly have improved mood and reduced levels of depression. What are the psychological benefits of exercise for depression?

      View details

      While clinical depression was once considered a "women's disease", more than 6 million men in the US suffer from depression each year. Unfortunately, the lingering image of depression as a female disease may prevent clinically depressed men from recognizing the symptoms of depression and seeking treatment.

      More details

      How effective is your depression treatment? It helps a little, but do you still not feel as if the darkness has lifted? You may feel like the treatment isn't working at all. If so, you may have treatment-resistant depression (TRD), also called refractory depression.

      Read more

      Claire Hamilton was worried about her aunt Julia. Julia always seemed to have some new excuse to stay at home. A few months ago, she had already stopped volunteering with the local Head Start program because she was suffering from arthritis.

      More

      Charlie Woods came home from church one Sunday morning to find two policemen at his door. The officers first asked if he had health problems. Then he was told that both his parents had died. His father killed his mother by firing six bullets through the bedroom door of their Tallahassee home.

      View details

      April 17, 2000 (Berkeley, CA) - For many years, Maria Cuzentsa's three children didn't worry too much about her. In her 60s and early 70s, Cusenza was a busy woman living in her own apartment in San Francisco. But in recent years the situation has changed.

      More details

      Your dad, 66 years old, retired widower, lives alone. Lately, he has given up his weekly card games and doesn't see his friends anymore. Could it be depression? Maybe. With enough stress, anyone will develop depression, says George Grossberg, MD, Samuel Fordyce Professor and Director of Geriatric Psychiatry at St. Louis Medical School.

      More

      If you have depression or think you have it, psychotherapy is one way to get help. This treatment is called talking therapy because you are talking to a qualified mental health professional.

      More

      Are you curious about whether you have clinical depression? This test can help you determine if you are at risk. Feel free to ask for help; depression can be treated. Have you been depressed most of the day, almost every day for at least two weeks?

      Read more

      For millions of people, chronic illness and depression are a fact of life. A chronic disease is a condition that lasts a very long time and usually cannot be completely cured, although some illnesses can be controlled or managed through lifestyle (diet and exercise) and certain medications.

      Read more

      When you lose someone or something dear to you, it is natural to feel pain and grief. The process of grief is normal and most people go through it. But when grief takes over your life and you start to feel hopeless, helpless, and worthless, then it's time to talk to your doctor about how to tell the difference between normal grief and depression.

      Read more

      Living with chronic or long-term pain is hard. When you have chronic pain and depression, it's even more difficult. Depression makes the pain worse. It makes daily life difficult. However, it is important to know that medications and psychotherapy can help relieve depression and make chronic pain more bearable.

      Read more

      Some people say they drink alcohol to “drown their sorrows” after a bad relationship breakup, job loss, or other major stress in life. And yes, since alcohol makes you sleepy, a few glasses of beer or wine can help you relax and relieve anxiety.

      More details

      Are you worried that your child may have depression? Most children have days when they feel sad, lonely, or depressed. But if your child seems to be constantly sad or hopeless and this affects the relationship, he may be suffering from childhood depression, a serious mental disorder that requires medical evaluation and treatment.

      More

      If you are being treated for depression, your doctor may prescribe an antidepressant. These medications can be very helpful in relieving your symptoms. Psychotherapy, also known as talking therapy, can help too. Like all medications, antidepressants can have side effects.

      Read more

      The warm rays of the sun are nice on your skin. Could a machine that emits beams of light like those from the sun cure health problems? Yes. This is called phototherapy or light therapy. It uses ultraviolet rays to treat:

      Read more

      Other people you know may have recovered more easily from depression: a few months of therapy or antidepressants and they returned to normal. But for you, it wasn't like that, no matter what you tried. There is no single cause for treatment-resistant depression.

      Read more

      Some days are easier than others when you have major depressive disorder (MDD), also known simply as depression. But other times, it can be more difficult to just get on with day-to-day activities.


      Learn more