Get more high-yield learning on psychiatric management in primary care and outpatient practice at collaborative-psychiatry.org.

In this episode, we explore two underused antidepressants—vilazodone (Viibryd) and vortioxetine (Trintellix)—that offer important advantages over traditional SSRIs, particularly when it comes to minimizing sexual side effects and weight gain. You'll learn how these medications work, how to dose them effectively, and where they fit into real-world treatment strategies. By the end, you’ll be able to identify how vilazodone and vortioxetine differ from traditional SSRIs, compare their side effect profiles, understand titration schedules, and determine when to consider them as part of your antidepressant selection framework.

For access to the Show Notes as well as the downloadable clinical references and patients handouts associated with this episode, visit the Episode Page. There, QuickTake Members will find:

• A visual flowchart guiding clinical use of Vilazodone and Vortioxetine.
• A quick-reference table comparing clinically relevant aspects of Vilazodone, Vortioxetine and traditional SSRIs.
• An informational handout for patients considering or being prescribed Vilazodone.
• An informational handout for patients considering or being prescribed Vortioxetine.

For a deep dive on managing antidepressants and treating depression in primary care, check out our Audio Course Managing Depression in Primary Care.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this episode, you'll be able to:

1. Identify the key differences between vilazodone, vortioxetine, and traditional SSRIs.
2. Compare side effect profiles, especially regarding weight gain and sexual dysfunction.
3. Apply practical dosing and titration strategies for these two medications.
4. Determine where these medications fit in your antidepressant treatment algorithm.