Comprehensive medication guide to {drug} including estimated pricing, availability information, side effects, and how to find it in stock at your local pharmacy.
Qelbree (Viloxazine) is an FDA-approved, non-stimulant medication used to treat Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) in adults and children ages 6 and older. It is manufactured by Supernus Pharmaceuticals. Unlike stimulant ADHD medications such as Adderall or Vyvanse, Qelbree works differently and is not a controlled substance, making it an attractive option for patients who cannot tolerate stimulants or prefer a non-controlled alternative.
Qelbree is taken once daily in the morning as an extended-release capsule. Capsules can be swallowed whole or opened and sprinkled on applesauce for patients who have difficulty swallowing.
Qelbree is classified as a selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It works by blocking the norepinephrine transporter in the brain, which increases the amount of norepinephrine available. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter involved in attention, focus, and impulse control.
In addition to its effects on norepinephrine, Qelbree also modulates serotonergic transmission and enhances dopamine activity in the prefrontal cortex — the brain region most associated with executive function and ADHD symptoms. This multi-pathway approach may explain why some patients respond well to Qelbree when other treatments have not worked.
Qelbree is available as extended-release capsules in the following strengths:
Dosing varies by age group. Children ages 6–11 typically start at 100 mg once daily and may increase to 200 mg. Adolescents ages 12–17 start at 200 mg and may increase to 400 mg. Adults start at 200 mg and may increase up to 600 mg once daily.
Qelbree scores a 45 out of 100 on our findability scale, meaning it can be moderately difficult to locate in stock. While there is no active FDA shortage of Qelbree, many pharmacies do not routinely stock this newer brand-name medication. The ongoing ADHD stimulant shortage that began in 2022 has also increased demand for non-stimulant alternatives like Qelbree, making it harder to find at some locations. You may need to call multiple pharmacies or use Medfinder to locate it nearby.
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Qelbree can be prescribed by a variety of healthcare providers, including:
Qelbree is also available through telehealth providers, making it more accessible for patients who have difficulty seeing a specialist in person.
No, Qelbree is not a controlled substance. Unlike stimulant ADHD medications such as Adderall (Schedule II) or Vyvanse (Schedule II), Qelbree has no DEA scheduling. This means it does not carry the same prescribing restrictions — there are no limits on refills, prescriptions can be called in to the pharmacy, and it can generally be prescribed with fewer barriers. This is one of the key advantages of Qelbree for patients and providers who want to avoid controlled substance regulations.
Like all medications, Qelbree may cause side effects. The most commonly reported include:
Important: Qelbree carries a boxed warning for increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults during the first few months of treatment. Patients should be monitored closely, and any changes in mood or behavior should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.
If you are unable to find Qelbree in stock or are looking for other options, consider discussing these alternatives with your doctor:
Qelbree is a strong CYP1A2 inhibitor, which means it can significantly affect the levels of other medications in your body. Key interactions include:
Qelbree is a valuable non-stimulant treatment option for ADHD in both children and adults. Its biggest advantages include not being a controlled substance, once-daily dosing, and a unique mechanism of action for patients who haven't responded to other treatments. However, its brand-only status means higher costs (around $362–$525 per month without insurance) and occasional difficulty finding it in stock at local pharmacies.
If you're struggling to find Qelbree, use Medfinder to search pharmacies near you that have it available. You can also ask your pharmacy to special order it, check with Supernus Pharmaceuticals about their savings card program (as low as $20 for eligible patients), or discuss alternative non-stimulant options with your provider.
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