The prescription drug
Pristiq® (
desvenlafaxine succinate) is used for the treatment of
depression, sometimes called major depression. It works by affecting the levels of two chemicals in the brain: serotonin and norepinephrine. This medication comes in the form of an extended-release tablet and is taken just once a day.
Two different strengths of Pristiq are available: 50 mg and 100 mg. The exact dose your healthcare provider recommends will depend on various factors, such as how you respond to the drug initially or if other medical conditions are present. For example, people with liver disease are limited in the amount of Pristiq they can take in a day.
(To learn more about when the different Pristiq strengths are used, click Pristiq Dosage. This article provides general dosing guidelines for this medication, explains how your dose will be adjusted if necessary, and includes helpful tips for those taking it.)