Indications
Pristiq (active ingredient: desvenlafaxine) is a prescription medication indicated for the following:
- Major Depressive Disorder (MDD): Pristiq is used for the treatment of major depressive disorder, a condition characterized by persistent low mood, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, and other symptoms that interfere with daily life.
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD): It is indicated for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder, which involves excessive worry or anxiety that is difficult to control.
Pristiq belongs to a class of drugs known as serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), which work by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters in the brain that play a key role in regulating mood and anxiety levels.
Uses and Dosage
Pristiq comes in tablet form and is taken orally with or without food as directed by a doctor, usually once a day. Do not crush, chew, or dissolve the tablets, as this can release all the drugs at once and increase the risk of side effects. Follow the doctor's instructions carefully and do not increase the dose or use Pristiq more often or for longer than prescribed. Regular use of Pristiq is necessary to obtain the maximum benefit, and patients should take it at the same time each day to help them remember to take it.
The recommended dosage of Pristiq is 50 mg once daily, with or without food. The doses of 50-100 mg/day were shown to be effective, but there was no evidence that doses greater than 50 mg per day confer any additional benefit. Follow a doctor's instructions carefully and do not increase the dose or use Pristiq more often or for longer than prescribed.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine):
- Constipation
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Dry mouth
- Increased sweating
- Insomnia or trouble sleeping
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea
- Nervousness
- Weight loss
Serious Side Effects of Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine)
- Bleeding
- Chest pain
- Eye swelling
- High blood sugar or hypertension
- Impotence
- Low sex drive
- Persistent cough
- Severe pounding headache
- Shortness of breath
- Signs of serotonin syndrome (palpitations, hallucinations, loss of coordination, agitation, severe nausea, vomiting, twitching of muscles, unexplained fever)
- Tremors
- Vision changes
- Widened pupils
Form and Strength
Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine) is available in the following forms and strengths:
Pristiq: Extended-Release Tablet
- 25mg
- 50mg
- 100mg
Desvenlafaxine: Extended-Release Tablet
- 25mg
- 50mg
- 100mg
Caution
- Pristiq should not be used within 7 days before or 14 days after the use of an MAO inhibitor, including isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine.
- Consult with your doctor before stopping the use of Pristiq or any other medication. Sudden withdrawal from Pristiq can cause withdrawal symptoms and may lead to a worsening of the underlying condition.
- People with depression or mental illness may experience suicidal thoughts, especially when starting treatment with medication. Contact your doctor immediately if you have sudden changes in mood or behavior or suicidal thoughts.
- If you are allergic to desvenlafaxine or venlafaxine, which are active ingredients in Pristiq and other medications, you should not take Pristiq. Inform your doctor about any allergies or adverse reactions you may have to any medications before starting a new treatment.
- May increase risk of bleeding, particularly when taken with other medications that affect blood clotting.
- May increase blood pressure and heart rate.
- May cause serotonin syndrome if taken with other medications that affect serotonin levels.
- Caution in patients with liver or kidney disease
- Caution in elderly patients or those with a history of glaucoma, seizures, or high blood pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does it take for Desvenlafaxine to work?
It can take several weeks for Desvenlafaxine to begin to work.
Can desvenlafaxine be taken with other medications?
Inform your doctor or pharmacist about any other medications you are taking, as some medications may interact with desvenlafaxine.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking desvenlafaxine?
It is generally recommended to avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking desvenlafaxine.
Can desvenlafaxine be used during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?
Discuss the risks and benefits of using desvenlafaxine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding with your healthcare provider.
What should I do if I miss a dose of desvenlafaxine?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, but do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
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