From the Research
Yes, Quelbree (viloxazine) can potentially induce mania, particularly in patients with bipolar disorder or a history of manic episodes. Quelbree is a non-stimulant medication approved for treating ADHD that works by inhibiting norepinephrine reuptake. The risk of medication-induced mania with Quelbree is similar to other antidepressant-like medications. Patients taking Quelbree should be monitored for signs of mania or hypomania, including decreased need for sleep, racing thoughts, increased talkativeness, elevated mood, grandiosity, or impulsive behavior. This risk is higher in patients with a personal or family history of bipolar disorder. If a patient develops manic symptoms while taking Quelbree, the medication should be discontinued and appropriate psychiatric evaluation should be sought immediately.
Key Considerations
- Healthcare providers should screen for bipolar disorder before prescribing Quelbree and use caution when prescribing it to patients with risk factors for bipolar disorder.
- The mechanism behind this effect likely relates to Quelbree's impact on norepinephrine and potentially other neurotransmitters that can trigger manic episodes in susceptible individuals.
- According to a recent study 1, mood stabilizers can be effective in treating emotional dysregulation in adults with ADHD, with or without comorbid bipolar spectrum disorders.
- Another study 2 highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of bipolar disorder, as well as the need for careful consideration of treatment options to minimize the risk of manic episodes.
- While Quelbree's specific risk of inducing mania is not directly addressed in the provided studies, its mechanism of action and similarity to other antidepressant-like medications suggest a potential risk, particularly in susceptible individuals 3.
Monitoring and Treatment
- Patients taking Quelbree should be closely monitored for signs of mania or hypomania.
- If manic symptoms develop, Quelbree should be discontinued and appropriate psychiatric evaluation should be sought immediately.
- Healthcare providers should consider alternative treatment options for patients with a history of manic episodes or bipolar disorder, and carefully weigh the potential benefits and risks of Quelbree in these patients.