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Pristiq Information

Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine Extended Release) is used to treat major depression in adults. Depression is a complex mood disorder characterized by persistent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure, changes in appetite or sleep, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and sometimes thoughts of worthlessness or hopelessness.

Pristiq belongs to the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor class of antidepressants. It is unique in its drug class, as its active ingredient, desvenlafaxine, is already in its active form and does not require as much liver metabolism, making its effects more predictable.

Being a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, it increases the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. These two neurotransmitters play key roles in regulating mood, energy, and emotional balance. In depression, these chemicals are often dysregulated, leading to symptoms such as sadness, fatigue, sleep problems, poor concentration, and other symptoms of depression. Improving the levels of these substances ultimately enhances mood and motivation to carry out daily activities in individuals with depression. Like many other antidepressants, the desired effects of desvenlafaxine may not be seen until about 1-2 weeks after consistent use.

Pristiq Side Effects

As with any medication, desvenlafaxine can cause a range of side effects, some of which are more common and others that are serious but rare. The most common side effects are mainly due to its impact on serotonin and norepinephrine levels. Some of these may include mild gastrointestinal disturbances like nausea and vomiting, drowsiness, reduced libido, anxiety, difficulty with concentration, and excessive sweating. Kindly contact your doctor if mild side effects persist or worsen.

While serious side effects are rare, they can occur, especially in the case of an overdose or drug interactions. Therefore, if you experience any of the following, you should stop using the medication and seek immediate medical attention:
• Allergic reactions such as breathing difficulties, hives, swelling of the face, mouth, tongue, lips, or throat, body itching;
• Bleeding problems: such as unusual nosebleeds, bruising, bleeding gums, and cuts that don't stop bleeding;
• Central nervous system overactivity with symptoms like confusion, agitation, hallucination, or manic episodes;
• Glaucoma, especially in susceptible individuals, with symptoms such as sudden eye pain, blurry vision, and vision loss;
• Hyponatremia (Low Sodium) with symptoms like confusion, seizures, headache;
• Liver problems, with symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, weight loss, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, dark urine, and pale stools;
• Serotonin Syndrome, with symptoms such as fever, confusion, seizures, muscle spasms or twitches, nausea, and vomiting;
• Severely increased blood pressure, with symptoms such as chest pain, blurred vision, dizziness, excessive tiredness, headache, fast and stronger heartbeat

As with many other antidepressants, there is a risk of increased suicidal thoughts and behavior, especially in children, adolescents, and young adults (under 25), particularly when starting the medication or changing the dose. It is essential to monitor individuals taking this medication, particularly children and young adults, for any unusual changes in behavior.

Pristiq Precautions

Do not use this oral medication if you are allergic to desvenlafaxine, other ingredients in Pristiq, or other medicines in its class. Before you start taking this medication, ensure that you inform your doctor about any prior or current medical conditions, including the following:
• Bipolar disorder/mania;
• Bleeding disorders;
• Bone problems;
• Breathing problems;
• Diabetes;
• Eye conditions such as glaucoma;
• Gastrointestinal issues such as intestinal blockage or narrowing;
• Heart Disease;
• High blood cholesterol;
• High blood pressure;
• Kidney disease;
• Liver disease;
• Low blood sodium levels;
• Seizure disorders;
• Suicidal ideation and thoughts

Given the risk of drowsiness and impaired coordination, you should avoid driving, operating heavy machinery, or engaging in other activities that require mental alertness until you know how this medication affects you. Alcohol may also potentiate these adverse effects, so avoid it while using this medication. There is a risk of adverse effects such as serotonin syndrome and bleeding disorders when desvenlafaxine is used with other medicines, such as some other antidepressants (monoamine oxidase inhibitors). Therefore, inform your healthcare provider about all the medicines, including herbal supplements, that you are taking before using Pristiq to prevent potential drug interactions.

Stopping this medication suddenly may lead to unwanted symptoms such as anxiety, confusion, headache, irritability, and sleep disturbances. Therefore, consult your doctor if you wish to stop using this medication, as it needs to be tapered gradually. This medication is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy or while breastfeeding unless it's benefits outweigh the risk, as determined by your doctor. It can cause complications during the last trimester and also affect the breastfed infant.

Pristiq is available in extended-release tablets for oral use. Take these extended-release tablets with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole. Don't divide, crush, chew, or dissolve them, as this disrupts the extended-release action. Consult your doctor to determine the appropriate dose for you, and refer to the leaflet in the medication pack for additional usage details. Please do not stop the medication suddenly; taper it under your doctor's guidance to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Store the medication at room temperature, away from light and moisture, and keep it out of the reach of children.

Do I need a prescription to order Pristiq?

Yes, a prescription is required from your physician to order Pristiq.