TRINTELLIX (Vortioxetine)

What is this medication?

Vortioxetine, Trintellix
Antidepressant, Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor; Serotonin 5-HT1A Receptor Agonist; Serotonin 5-HT3 Receptor Antagonist

Vortioxetine, Trintellix is officially indicated for major depressive disorder.

“ALERT: US Boxed Warning

​Suicidal thoughts and behaviors:
Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults in short-term studies. These studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior with antidepressant use in patients older than 24 years; there was a trend toward reduced risk with antidepressant use in patients 65 years and older.

In patients of all ages who are started on antidepressant therapy, monitor closely for worsening, and for emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Advise families and caregivers of the need for close observation and communication with the prescriber.

Vortioxetine has not been evaluated for use in pediatric patients.”

How does this medication work?

Vortioxetine, Trintellix inhibits reuptake of serotonin (5-HT), but it also has agonist activity at the 5-HT1A receptor and antagonist activity at the 5-HT3 receptor.

How should I take this medication?

Initial: 5 to 10 mg once daily; may increase by 5 to 10 mg at ≥1-week intervals up to target dose of 20 mg once daily (maximum dose: 20 mg/day, but 10mg/day for CYP2D6 slow metabolizers)

How to Take: Can be taken with or without food and taken regularly as prescribed.

What should I watch for while using this medication?

Before starting Vortioxetine, Trintellix make sure your physician is aware of any allergies or medications you currently take, if you have a seizure disorder, or have experienced manic/hypomanic episodes. Vortioxetine, Trintellix use has been association with rare but serious adverse events such as hypersensitivity reactions, increased risk of bleeding events, CNS depression, increased rates of bone fracture, ocular effects, SIADH, serotonin syndrome and suicidal ideation.  If any behavioral changes are noted they should be reported to the prescriber immediately.

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose of medication, try to take it as soon as possible.  However, if it is almost time for your next dose, take only that scheduled dose.  Do not take double or extra doses.

How should I store this medication?

Keep out of the reach of children at all times.  Store at room temperature, 59 to 86° F (15 to 30° C).  Protect from light.  Keep the container tightly closed.  Properly dispose of any unused medication after the expiration date.

What are the possible side effects of using this medication?

Nausea, dizziness, abnormal dream, pruritis, diarrhea, dry mouth, constipation, vomiting, flatulence, Vortioxetine, Trintellix male/female sexual disorders

Note this is not a complete list of side effects, only common ones.