Latest Antidepressant Auvelity: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Cost

Auvelity For Depression

Auvelity is the brand name for the oral antidepressant containing a combination of the active substances Dextromethorphan and Bupropion, which are used in treating major depressive disorder (MDD). The drug was developed by Axsome Therapeutics. 

The information in this article is not to be interpreted as individual medical advice. Remember to always consult with your psychiatrist before starting treatment with any medications.

FDA Approval, Release Date & Generics 

• Auvelity was FDA-Approved for use in Major Depressive Disorder (MDD) on the 19th of August 2022 and was released on the US market during the last quarter of 2022. As of now, Auvelity is not for sale in any other country.
  
  
• Currently, there is no approved generic counterpart to Auvelity. It is the only medication on the market that contains the specific formulation of Dextromethorphan-Bupropion.

What Is Auvelity Used For?

While Auvelity is only FDA-approved for MDD, it is also being researched for treating agitation in Alzheimer's disease.

Major Depressive Disorder

• Several scientific studies, including phase III trials, have shown that the combination of Dextromethorphan and Bupropion (known as AXS-05 in scientific literature, but is commercially available as Auvelity) is effective in the treatment of adult depression. 

Agitation in Alzheimer's Disease

• Auvelity is currently in Phase III trials for the treatment of agitation (an aroused state that may lead to aggressiveness) in Alzheimer’s disease. Early clinical trials indicate that it may be effective. Nevertheless, as of now, there is no FDA approval or official recommendations for this purpose.

Contraindications

• Just as with Wellbutrin, the combination of Dextromethorphan-Bupropion is contraindicated in seizure disorder and in those undergoing abrupt discontinuation of alcohol, benzodiazepines, barbiturates, and antiepileptic drugs. 
  
  
• It is also contraindicated in patients with current or prior diagnosis of anorexia nervosa or bulimia.
  
  
• Use with an MAOI or within 14 days of discontinuing an MAOI type of drug.
  
  
• Hypersensitivity or allergy to either Bupropion or Dextromethorphan. 
  
  
• Use of Auvelity is to be avoided in case of severe liver or kidney impairment. 

Dosage

• One extended-release tablet of Auvelity contains 45 mg of dextromethorphan hydrobromide and 105 mg of bupropion hydrochloride.
  
  
• Starting dose should be one tablet (45/105mg) a day for at least 3 days before increasing the dosage to a maximum of twice daily, given at least 8 hours apart. Do not exceed the maximum dosage.

Auvelity Side Effects

• The side effects of Auvelity are similar, but not identical, to those of Wellbutrin. This is due to both of them containing the active substance Bupropion. 
  
  
• The most common side effects of taking Auvelity for depression include dizziness, headache, diarrhea, somnolence, dry mouth, and hyperhidrosis.
  
  
• Sexual dysfunction is also listed as a common side effect of Auvelity in the FDA report. This is unlike Wellbutrin (which also contains Bupropion), which may even improve sexual function in some individuals.
  
  
• However, neither Auvelity nor Wellbutrin has been associated with significant weight gain, unlike many other antidepressants.

Auvelity compared to Wellbutrin

• A randomized double-blind controlled trial showed that remission rates were significantly greater with Dextromethorphan-Bupropion (Auvelity) compared to only Bupropion (Wellbutrin) at week 2 of treatment and every time point thereafter.
  
  
• The side effects of Auvelity and Wellbutrin are very similar, as they both medications contain the active substance Bupropion. Neither has been associated with significant weight gain, which is otherwise among the most common side effects of numerous antidepressants. 
  
  
• Unlike Wellbutrin, there have been reports of sexual dysfunction in patients taking Auvelity and it's listed as a common side effect of the drug in the FDA report.

Auvelity Cost

• The typical out-of-pocket price for Auvelity is over $1,100 per 60 tablets (45/105MG). As a result, it is an expensive option for those uninsured. 
  
  
• Auvelity offers prices as low as $10 for 30 to 90 days worth of medications through their Auvelity Savings Card program. The program ends on the 31st of December, 2023. Only those with private health insurance and not under Medicaid are eligible.

Author: J. Martin, M.D. 
Last updated: October 8, 2023

Disclaimer: The information provided is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider, such as a physician, before starting any new treatment or making changes to your existing treatment plan. Individual responses to treatment may vary, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance based on your specific needs and circumstances. If you are experiencing severe or persistent symptoms of disease or mental illness seek immediate medical attention.