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Trintellix Dosage and Administration

Wednesday 20 March 2024
Trintellix
5 minute(s) read

Table of Contents


I. Trintellix Dosage for Major Depressive Disorder

II. Trintellix Dosage Adjustments

III. How to Take Trintellix

IV. Trintellix Withdrawal

V. Conclusion


Living with depression is challenging, but finding the right medication and dosage can make a big difference in managing your symptoms. One treatment option is Trintellix (vortioxetine), an antidepressant that can help relieve depressive symptoms in adults.

In this article, we’ll explore recommended dosages, administration, and withdrawal from Trintellix.

Trintellix Dosage for Major Depressive Disorder

When starting treatment with Trintellix for major depressive disorder (MDD), your doctor will prescribe the lowest dosage possible that helps relieve your symptoms. They'll gradually adjust your dosage to find the ideal amount for you.

The recommended starting dose of Trintellix is typically 10 mg, taken once daily. This low dose helps minimize side effects as your body adjusts to the medication. [1]

If, after some time, the 10 mg dose isn't fully managing your depression, your doctor may increase your dosage to 20 mg once daily. This higher dose might provide the extra symptom relief you need. [1]

However, if you experience unpleasant side effects on the 10 mg dose, your doctor may decrease your Trintellix dosage to 5 mg once daily. This lower dose could reduce side effects while still easing your depression. [1]

Your doctor's goal is to prescribe the smallest dosage within the recommended range that works for your body and provides relief. 

Trintellix Dosage Adjustments

bottles of medication with tablets

Your doctor may prescribe a different dosage of Trintellix if you are taking medications that interact with it. Certain medications can increase or decrease the level of Trintellix in your body, requiring an adjusted dosage to ensure effectiveness and safety. [1]

Medications that lower Trintellix levels in the body include:

If you take any of these drugs along with Trintellix, your doctor will likely prescribe a maximum dosage of 10 mg per day rather than the typical 20 mg per day maximum. If you are already taking Trintellix when you start one of these interacting medications, the FDA recommends cutting your current Trintellix dosage in half. If your doctor discontinues these medications, the dose will be increased back to the original level. [1]

On the other hand, some medications can increase Trintellix levels in the body. These medications include:

  • Rifampin (Rafadin)
  • Carbamazepine (Tegretol)
  • Phenytoin (Dilantin) [1]

If these medications are taken for longer than 14 days, the FDA recommends increasing your dose of Trintellix to a maximum of three times the original dose. When these medications are discontinued, your Trintellix dosage should be returned to the original amount within 14 days. [1]

How to Take Trintellix

a woman taking medication with a glass of water

Trintellix is an oral antidepressant medication. It comes in tablet form and should be swallowed whole. Trintellix can be taken with or without food, though taking it with a meal may help reduce nausea. For the best results, it is important to take It at the same time every day. [2]

When you first start on Trintellix, your doctor will prescribe a dosage based on your medical history, symptoms, and response to treatment. It's important to follow the exact dosage instructions from your doctor. Don't adjust your dosage on your own. Taking too much Trintellix can increase your risk of side effects. And taking too little may result in the medication not working as well. [2]

Missing a Dose of Trintellix

If you miss a dose of Trintellix, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Missing a single dose is unlikely to cause any issues. [2]

For those taking higher doses of 15 mg or more per day, missing several consecutive doses can lead to side effects such as headaches, tense muscles, or the return of depression symptoms. While uncomfortable, these effects are typically not dangerous. [2]

To avoid missing doses, try using medication reminders. Set an alarm on your phone, put a sticky note on your bathroom mirror or nightstand, or download an app specifically designed to alert you when it's time to take your next dose. Having a system in place can help ensure you take Trintellix regularly. [2]

Trintellix Overdose

Taking more Trintellix than prescribed by your doctor can lead to serious side effects. An overdose of this medication may result in seizures or serotonin syndrome. [2]

Serotonin syndrome occurs when too much serotonin is building up in your body. Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include:

  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Diarrhea
  • Upset stomach
  • Itchiness
  • Sleepiness [2]

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of these symptoms after taking Trintellix. You may require immediate medical care. If the symptoms are severe, call 911 or your local emergency services. [2]

Trintellix Withdrawal

If you have been taking Trintellix and are considering stopping your treatment, it's important to speak with your doctor first. Suddenly stopping Trintellix can lead to withdrawal side effects such as headaches and muscle tension. [1]

To help avoid withdrawal symptoms, your doctor may gradually decrease your Trintellix dosage before fully stopping the medication. For example, if you have been taking a 15 or 20 mg daily dose, your doctor may lower your dosage to 10 mg daily. You would take this reduced 10 mg dose for at least one week before completely stopping Trintellix. [1]

If you have been taking a 10 mg or 5 mg daily dose of Trintellix, you may be able to stop the medication without gradually decreasing your dosage. However, you should still discuss stopping treatment with your doctor before doing so. [1]

Conclusion

Trintellix can be a valuable tool in managing depression when taken at the appropriate dosage. Collaborating with your healthcare provider to determine the right dosage tailored to your symptoms is crucial.

The dosages outlined in this article are standard recommendations from the FDA, but your doctor will personalize your prescription based on your individual needs.

To learn more about Trintellix, visit our dedicated Trintellix blog.

The content provided in this article is based on thorough research and in some cases, reviewed by a medical professional. Our goal for the information is to provide helpful, general health informational. It is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice.