Comprehensive medication guide to Qelbree including estimated pricing, availability information, side effects, and how to find it in stock at your local pharmacy.
Estimated Insurance Pricing
With commercial insurance and the manufacturer savings card, eligible patients may pay as low as $20 per prescription.
Estimated Cash Pricing
Qelbree costs approximately $362 to $525 per month without insurance for a 30-day supply.
Medfinder Findability Score
45/100
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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.
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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.
100 mg extended-release capsule — capsule
150 mg extended-release capsule — capsule
200 mg extended-release capsule — capsule
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.
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.
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Strattera (Atomoxetine)
Another non-stimulant SNRI for ADHD, FDA-approved for children 6+ and adults. Generic available, typically $30–$60 per month.
Intuniv (Guanfacine ER)
Alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, non-stimulant for ADHD in children 6–17. Generic available, typically $20–$50 per month.
Kapvay (Clonidine ER)
Alpha-2 adrenergic agonist, non-stimulant for ADHD in children 6–17. Generic available, typically $15–$40 per month.
Wellbutrin (Bupropion)
Used off-label for ADHD. Norepinephrine-dopamine reuptake inhibitor. Generic widely available, typically $10–$30 per month.
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MAO Inhibitors
moderate(Isocarboxazid, Phenelzine, Selegiline, Tranylcypromine) — Contraindicated. Do not use Qelbree within 14 days of an MAOI due to risk of hypertensive crisis.
CYP1A2 substrates with narrow therapeutic range
moderate(Theophylline, Tizanidine, Alosetron, Duloxetine) — Contraindicated or should be avoided due to significantly increased drug levels.
Caffeine and Melatonin
moderateLevels may increase when taken with Qelbree. Monitor intake and adjust as needed.
Other serotonergic drugs
moderateRisk of serotonin syndrome when combined with SSRIs, SNRIs, or triptans.
CYP2D6 substrates
minor(Atomoxetine, Dextromethorphan) — Levels may be mildly increased. Monitor for side effects.
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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