Does Viibryd cause brain zaps? (+3 risks)

In this article, we will discuss whether Viibryd can cause brain zaps or not. Furthermore, we will look at the mechanism through which Viibryd may cause brain zaps. We will undergo some ways to avoid brain zaps due to Viibryd. 

Does Viibryd cause brain zaps?

Viibryd may cause brain zaps. However, brain zaps are not a common side effect associated with Viibryd. Some patients may experience brain zaps with Viibryd while others may not depending upon their response to Viibryd. 

Viibryd is an antidepressant medication which selectively inhibits the reuptake of serotonin in the brain leading to increased concentration and activity of serotonin. Viibryd acts as a serotonin modulator and is approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder (1). 

Brain zaps are a condition in which the patient experiences brain shivers or electric shocks. It is a brain sensation referred to as a sudden and brief electric shock in the brain. Brain zaps are a symptom of antidepressant discontinuation (2). 

If you are experiencing unusual brain sensations while taking Viibryd or any other antidepressant such as duloxetine or desvenlafaxine, then you must communicate these symptoms to your healthcare provider to seek medical help. 

What does research suggest?

According to the research studies, brain zaps are a poorly understood side effect of many antidepressant discontinuation. However, not much research is available regarding brain zaps due to Viibryd. 

It has been studied that brain zaps are most commonly caused by to discontinuation of antidepressants. However, brain zaps can be avoided if gradual dose tapering is done instead of stopping Viibryd abruptly (2). 

However, brain zaps are usually transitory but in some cases, it has been reported that brain zaps cause significant disability that lasts for months or years (2). 

What is the connection between brain zaps and Viibryd?

The direct connection between brain zaps and Viibryd has not yet been studied. However, the serotonin modulation in the brain due to Viibryd, brain zaps can occur. 

Viibryd acts on the serotonergic system in the brain selectively and increases its levels in the brain by inhibiting its reuptake. Due to the abrupt discontinuation of Viibryd, sudden changes in the serotonergic system can cause alterations and imbalances in serotonin levels in the brain leading to brain zaps. 

It is important to note that individual patient factors may vary among different patients. Not all patients may be exposed to brain zaps upon sudden discontinuation of Viibryd. 

How to avoid the risks of developing brain zaps with Viibryd?

The following ways might help to avoid the risks of developing brain zaps with Viibryd discontinuation:

• Follow prescription- It is strongly advised to follow the given prescription by your doctor. Do not add or subtract anything from your prescription and regularly follow the dosage, frequency, and timing of the medication prescribed. 

• Gradual dose tapering- It is important to gradually reduce the dose of the prescribed antidepressant under your doctor’s supervision instead of stopping it cold turkey. 

• Avoid sudden changes- Sudden changes or medication discontinuation may cause alterations and imbalances in your brain chemicals leading to unusual symptoms. 

• Regular follow-ups- You must attend your follow-up appointments with your doctor and discuss your concerns. Your doctor may make necessary adjustments according to your progress and symptoms. 

• Take supplements- Some patients require additional supplements in their regimen as an additional strategy to prevent withdrawal symptoms upon medication discontinuation. 

In my opinion

In my opinion as a pharmacist, you may develop brain zaps upon abrupt discontinuation of Viibryd. However, the severity and intensity of brain zaps may differ among patients.

Brain zaps are not dangerous or harmful but can be unpleasant and disruptive. Therefore, to avoid such disruptive sensations in your brain, you must religiously follow your doctor’s prescription. If changes are required in your prescription, you must seek your doctor’s help. 

You must discuss your concerns and symptoms with your healthcare provider. You must also seek relevant education regarding withdrawal symptoms and brain zaps upon Viiryd discontinuation to avoid potential discomfort. 

References