From the Guidelines
Vilazodone is likely to cause thermoregulatory center dysfunction similar to SSRIs due to its mechanism of action as a serotonin partial agonist-reuptake inhibitor. As a serotonin modulator, vilazodone affects serotonin levels in the brain, which can impact the hypothalamic thermoregulatory center, leading to potential symptoms such as excessive sweating, hot flashes, or difficulty regulating body temperature [1@]. The evidence from the guidelines for evaluation of new fever in critically ill adult patients suggests that serotonin syndrome, which can be caused by excessive stimulation of the 5-HT1A-receptor, may be a concern with the use of serotonin reuptake inhibitors, including vilazodone [1@]. Key points to consider when evaluating the risk of thermoregulatory center dysfunction with vilazodone include:
- The patient's medical history and current medications, as certain medications such as linezolid may exacerbate the risk of serotonin syndrome [1
From the Research
Vilazodone and Thermoregulatory Center Dysfunction
- There is no direct evidence in the provided studies that vilazodone causes thermoregulatory center dysfunction like SSRIs 1, 2, 3, 4, 5.
- The studies focus on the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of vilazodone in treating major depressive disorder, as well as its pharmacological properties and mechanisms of action.
- None of the studies mention thermoregulatory center dysfunction as a potential side effect of vilazodone.
Comparison to SSRIs
- Vilazodone's profile of adverse events is similar to that seen with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) 1.
- Vilazodone combines the properties of an SSRI and a serotonin 5-HT1A receptor partial agonist, which may contribute to its unique side effect profile 2, 3, 4, 5.
- However, the studies do not provide a direct comparison of vilazodone's effects on thermoregulation to those of SSRIs.