Pristiq Substitute

Pristiq^® (desvenlafaxine succinate) is a prescription medication used for treating depression. Although this antidepressant can be effective in treating this condition, for some people it does not work or may cause side effects. Fortunately, there are several substitutes for Pristiq. Some of these substitutes include:

Therapy
Other depression medications (also known as antidepressants)
Electroconvulsive therapy
Alternative (natural) therapies.

Some of the medications that are considered alternatives for Pristiq include:

Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
Other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
Tricyclic antidepressants.

Some people may also consider complementary or alternative treatments for depression, such as:

Acupuncture
St. John's wort
SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine)
5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan)
Valerian.

In situations where medication, therapy, and the combination of these treatments prove ineffective, or work too slowly to relieve severe symptoms, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be considered.

If Pristiq is not working for you or if it is causing bothersome side effects, ask your healthcare provider about trying a substitute.

(For a more in-depth look at substitutes for this drug, such as therapy, other medications, and alternative natural therapies, click Pristiq Alternatives.)