Qelbree for ADHD: Is This Non-Stimulant Medication Right for You?

Living with ADHD means navigating a world that often demands sustained focus, organization, and follow-through — skills that don't come naturally when your brain works differently. While stimulant medications like Adderall and Vyvanse are the most well-known ADHD treatments, they aren't the right fit for everyone. That's where Qelbree (viloxazine) comes in.

What Is Qelbree?

Qelbree is an FDA-approved non-stimulant medication for ADHD in children (ages 6+), adolescents, and adults. It works as a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, increasing the availability of norepinephrine in the brain — a chemical that plays a key role in attention and executive function.

Viloxazine was originally used as an antidepressant in Europe starting in the 1970s before being developed specifically for ADHD treatment. Because it's non-stimulant, Qelbree carries a lower risk of misuse and addiction compared to stimulant medications and doesn't cause the "crash" some people experience with stimulants.

How to Take Qelbree

Qelbree comes as an extended-release capsule taken once daily. Recommended dosing varies by age:

• Children 6-11: Start at 100mg/day, max 400mg/day
• Adolescents 12-17: Start at 200mg/day, max 400mg/day
• Adults 18+: Start at 200mg/day, max 600mg/day

The capsule can be swallowed whole or opened and sprinkled onto soft food like applesauce. Your doctor will typically start at a lower dose and adjust based on how you respond.

Potential Side Effects

• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Decreased appetite
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Insomnia
• Irritability

Most side effects are mild and tend to improve as your body adjusts. Unlike stimulants, Qelbree doesn't typically cause the jitteriness or rebound effects that some patients find challenging.

Qelbree vs. Stimulant Medications

Stimulants remain the first-line treatment for most ADHD patients because of their strong efficacy. However, Qelbree may be preferred if you:

• Have a history of substance use or addiction
• Experience intolerable side effects from stimulants
• Have cardiovascular concerns
• Prefer a non-controlled substance
• Have co-occurring anxiety (stimulants can sometimes worsen anxiety)

ADHD Treatment in Lilburn, GA

ADHD is one of our core specialties at Next Step Psychiatry. Dr. Aneel Ursani and Fathima Chowdhury, PA-C, work with adults and adolescents across Lilburn, Lawrenceville, Duluth, Suwanee, and the metro Atlanta area to find the right ADHD medication — whether that's a stimulant, Qelbree, Strattera, or another option.