Risk of Death and Suicide on Vilazodone

Context: Underlying Disease Risk

• Patients with major depressive disorder face an 8.62-fold increased risk of death by suicide compared to the general population, independent of medication treatment 1, 2, 3
• The first year following diagnosis or treatment initiation carries the greatest suicide risk, requiring vigilant monitoring 2, 3
• Women with MDD face 9.40 times higher odds of death by suicide compared to the general population 2, 3

Monitoring Requirements

• Implement weekly monitoring within 1-2 weeks of treatment initiation for worsening suicidality, regardless of which antidepressant is prescribed 2, 3
• Continue structured surveillance throughout the first year of treatment, as this represents the period of greatest risk 2, 3

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Do not prematurely discontinue or switch antidepressants before completing adequate 6-8 week trials, as inadequate treatment duration is a modifiable risk factor for persistent suicidality 2