What is the maximum recommended dose of Qelbree (viloxazine extended‑release) for patients 12 years and older and for children 6–11 years old?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: March 9, 2026View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

Maximum Dose of Qelbree

The maximum recommended dose of Qelbree is 400 mg once daily for children ages 6-11 years and adolescents ages 12-17 years, and 600 mg once daily for adults 18 years and older. 1

Age-Specific Dosing

Children (6-11 years)

  • Starting dose: 100 mg once daily
  • Titration: Increase by 100 mg weekly as needed
  • Maximum dose: 400 mg once daily 1

Adolescents (12-17 years)

  • Starting dose: 200 mg once daily
  • Titration: May increase after 1 week by 200 mg increment
  • Maximum dose: 400 mg once daily 1

Adults (18+ years)

  • Starting dose: 200 mg once daily
  • Titration: Increase by 200 mg weekly as needed
  • Maximum dose: 600 mg once daily 1

Special Population Adjustments

Severe Renal Impairment

Critical dosing modification required: In patients with severe renal impairment, the maximum dose is substantially reduced to 200 mg once daily 1. This represents a 50-67% dose reduction compared to standard maximums.

  • Starting dose: 100 mg once daily
  • Titration: 50-100 mg weekly increments
  • Maximum dose: 200 mg once daily 1

Important Clinical Considerations

Pharmacokinetic differences by age: Pediatric patients (both 6-11 and 12-17 years) demonstrate 60-250% higher drug exposure (Cmax and AUC) compared to adults at equivalent doses 1. This explains why children and adolescents share the same 400 mg maximum despite different starting doses, while adults can tolerate up to 600 mg.

No hepatic dose adjustment: Unlike renal impairment, hepatic impairment does not require maximum dose reduction based on available FDA labeling 1.

Steady-state kinetics: Viloxazine reaches steady state after only 2 days of once-daily dosing with no accumulation, and has a half-life of approximately 7 hours 1. This rapid pharmacokinetic profile supports the weekly titration schedule.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.