What this episode covers
Vilazodone and vortioxetine are often overlooked antidepressants that can be useful when SSRIs cause sexual side effects, weight gain, or poor tolerability. This episode gives a practical framework for when to use them, how they differ from SSRIs, and how to prescribe them effectively in primary care.
- When to use vilazodone or vortioxetine instead of an SSRI
- How their side effect profiles differ in practice
- Practical dosing and titration strategies
Quick clinical takeaways
- Both are “SSRI+” agents with additional serotonin receptor activity
- Lower risk of sexual side effects and weight gain
- Best used as second-line options after SSRI intolerance
- Vilazodone → must be taken with food
- Vortioxetine → simpler dosing but insurance barriers
- You don’t need to use them first-line, but they’re valuable when SSRIs fail
Listen now
Prefer to listen on the go? This podcast is available for free on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you get your podcasts–just search Collaborative Psychiatry QuickTakes.
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Want a full antidepressant framework?
This episode introduces when to use alternative antidepressants. The full depression course walks through diagnosis, screening, medication selection, switching strategies, and long-term management.