From the Guidelines
It is not recommended to use Qelbree with Focalin without medical supervision due to potential increased risk of side effects and drug interactions. These medications work differently but both affect brain chemicals that influence attention and behavior. Qelbree is a norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor while Focalin is a stimulant medication. Using them together may increase the risk of side effects such as increased blood pressure, heart rate, anxiety, and insomnia 1.
When considering the use of Qelbree with Focalin, it's essential to evaluate the potential benefits and risks. The decision to use medication combinations should be based on a clear rationale and a treatment plan that takes into account the patient's specific medical history, current symptoms, and other medications they may be taking 1.
Some key factors to consider when evaluating the use of Qelbree with Focalin include:
- The potential for increased side effects, such as increased blood pressure and heart rate
- The risk of drug interactions that could affect how each medication works in the body
- The patient's medical history and current symptoms
- The potential benefits of using a combination of medications to manage ADHD symptoms
In general, it's recommended to use stimulants as first-line therapy and non-stimulants as second-line therapy for ADHD treatment 1. However, the approval statuses of individual medications can vary between countries, and the decision to use a particular medication should be based on the patient's specific needs and medical history.
Ultimately, the decision to use Qelbree with Focalin should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider, who can evaluate the potential benefits and risks and develop a treatment plan that is tailored to the patient's specific needs. Consulting with a healthcare provider is essential to determine if this combination is appropriate and to ensure safe and effective symptom management.
From the FDA Drug Label
DRUG INTERACTIONS Moderate sensitive CYP1A2 substrates: Not recommended for coadministration with Qelbree. Dose reduction may be warranted ( 7.1)
- Focalin is a moderate sensitive CYP1A2 substrate.
- The label states that coadministration of Qelbree with moderate sensitive CYP1A2 substrates is not recommended.
- Therefore, it is not safe to use Qelbree with Focalin, as it may require a dose reduction and is not recommended 2.
From the Research
Safety of Using Qelbree with Focalin
- There are no direct studies comparing the safety of using Qelbree (viloxazine) with Focalin (dexmethylphenidate) 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.
- Qelbree is a non-stimulant medication approved for the treatment of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children, adolescents, and adults, while Focalin is a stimulant medication used to treat ADHD 3, 5.
- The studies available provide information on the efficacy and safety of Qelbree and Focalin as separate treatments for ADHD, but do not address their combined use 4, 5, 6.
- Common adverse effects associated with Qelbree include somnolence, fatigue, irritability, decreased appetite, and headache, while Focalin's side effects are similar to other stimulant medications 4, 5.
- It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional to determine the safety and potential interactions of using Qelbree with Focalin, as there is no available research to provide a definitive answer 3, 4, 5, 6, 7.