Generic Name of Qelbree
The generic name of Qelbree is viloxazine. 1
Medication Details
Qelbree (viloxazine) is a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor that is FDA-approved for the treatment of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in both children (6 years and older) and adults. 2, 1
The medication is specifically formulated as an extended-release capsule containing viloxazine hydrochloride, which is chemically described as (±)-2-[(2-ethoxyphenoxy)methyl]morpholine hydrochloride with a molecular formula of C₁₃H₂₀NO₃Cl and molecular weight of 273.8. 1
Dosage Forms and Strengths
Qelbree is available in three extended-release capsule strengths:
- 100 mg of viloxazine free base (equivalent to 115 mg of viloxazine hydrochloride)
- 150 mg of viloxazine free base (equivalent to 173 mg of viloxazine hydrochloride)
- 200 mg of viloxazine free base (equivalent to 231 mg of viloxazine hydrochloride) 1
Mechanism of Action
Viloxazine works primarily by inhibiting the reuptake of norepinephrine. It also:
- Binds to and inhibits the norepinephrine transporter (Ki=0.13 μM)
- Exhibits partial agonist activity at the serotonin 5-HT2C receptor (Ki=0.66 μM)
- Increases serotonin levels in the prefrontal cortex 2, 1
This mechanism differs from other non-stimulant ADHD medications like guanfacine and clonidine, which are alpha-2 adrenergic receptor agonists. 3
Clinical Context
Viloxazine has an interesting history in that it was previously used as an antidepressant in Europe from the 1970s until it was withdrawn from markets in 2002. It has since been repurposed and reformulated as an extended-release preparation for ADHD treatment. 2, 4
In clinical trials, viloxazine ER demonstrated efficacy for ADHD symptoms with:
- Significant improvements in ADHD symptom scales compared to placebo
- Effects observable as early as week 2 of treatment
- Sustained efficacy in long-term extension studies 5, 6
Administration Considerations
The medication can be taken:
- As a whole capsule
- By sprinkling the contents over applesauce or pudding (consume within 15 minutes when mixed with pudding or within 2 hours when mixed with applesauce)
- It should not be cut, chewed, or crushed 1
For adults, most patients (73%) in long-term studies used doses of 400 mg/day or higher, with 36% using the maximum dose of 600 mg/day. 5
This non-stimulant option may be particularly valuable for patients with concerns about stimulant abuse potential or those who have not responded adequately to other ADHD treatments. 7