When a child is diagnosed with attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), parents can understandably have concerns. These can include which treatment is best, how to raise a child with the disorder, and simply how to make sure they’re set up for success. ADHD can be managed effectively, but navigating the many options to treat a child can sometimes make the process even more daunting. It’s important to know what works best will vary from child to child so it’s crucial to know all of the available options. It’s important to consult with a doctor about what may be best for your child and the CDC recommends including medication and behavior therapy together for children six and older.
One choice that is now part of the ADHD treatment landscape is Qelbree, a nonstimulant medication used to treat ADHD in children ages 6 to 17. This is the first nonstimulant ADHD medication for children and adolescents approved by the FDA in more than ten years.
To help you get a better understanding of Qelbree™ (viloxazine extended-release capsules) 100mg, 150mg, 200mg, and if it’s something you want to discuss with your child’s physician, we’ve created an overview of what you should know.
Important Safety Information
Qelbree may increase suicidal thoughts and actions, especially within the first few months of treatment or when the dose is changed. Tell your child’s doctor if they have (or if there is a family history of) suicidal thoughts or actions before starting Qelbree. Monitor your child’s moods, behaviors, thoughts and feelings during treatment with Qelbree. Report any new or sudden changes in these symptoms right away.
Important Safety Information continued below
What is Qelbree?
The nonstimulant treatment that helps make ADHD symptoms manageable. Qelbree is a prescription medicine used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children 6 to 17 years of age. This is a nonstimulant ADHD medication, which works as a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor.
How is it taken?
Qelbree can be taken with or without food and is available in capsule form in three dosages: 100 mg, 150 mg, and 200 mg. Your child can choose whether or not to swallow the pill—each capsule can either be opened and entire contents sprinkled onto a teaspoonful of applesauce (if sprinkled, it must be consumed within two hours) or swallowed whole. Plus, it’s administered once daily, so busy parents don’t need to figure out dosing throughout the day.
How much is it?
For parents interested in Qelbree, they’ll be happy to know that savings and support are available. Commercially insured patients can pay as little as $20 per prescription each month, for a year (terms and conditions apply), and when you sign up for updates on Qelbree’s site, there’s also an option to register for a free Welcome Kit. Qelbree is offering samples to doctors for patients who are interested in trying it out. Currently, Qelbree is the only ADHD medication being sampled.
For additional information, Qelbree has a Supernus Support hotline (available Monday through Friday 8:30am to 6:30pm ET except holidays at 1-866-398-0833), which helps with medication access, ways to save on medication, and insurance coverage. Please see the Medication Guide including Boxed Warning.
Why is ADHD medication important?
According to the CDC, medication can help children manage their ADHD symptoms and can help them control the behaviors that cause difficulties with family, friends, and at school.
To find a good treatment plan, parents, doctors, teachers, etc. should closely monitor if and how their ADHD treatment helps a child’s behavior, and make changes as needed along the way.
This article was created by SheKnows for Supernus.