Pristiq™ (
desvenlafaxine) is a prescription medication used to treat
depression. It comes in an extended-release tablet, meaning the medicine is released slowly into your body over time. Because Pristiq is long-acting, it is taken just once a day.
Pristiq is manufactured by Wyeth Pharmaceuticals, Inc.
Pristiq is part of a class of drugs called
serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, or
SNRIs for short. SNRIs act on specific chemicals within the brain known as serotonin and norepinephrine. These are two of several chemicals used to send messages from one nerve cell to another.
As a message travels down a nerve, it causes the end of the cell to release serotonin or norepinephrine. The chemical then enters the gap between the first nerve cell and the one next to it. When enough serotonin or norepinephrine reaches the second nerve cell, it activates receptors on the cell, and the message continues on its way. The first cell then quickly absorbs any serotonin or norepinephrine that remains in the gap between cells. This is called "reuptake."
Normally, this process works without any problems. When the levels become unbalanced, however, it can cause a variety of conditions, including depression. Pristiq helps block the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine so more remains in the space between the brain's nerve cells. This gives the chemicals a better chance of activating the receptors on the next nerve cell.
Studies have shown Pristiq to be effective as a
depression treatment in adults. In these studies, people taking the drug had more improvement in their
depression symptoms, compared to those not taking it. These studies also showed that a lower dose (50 mg per day) is just as effective and causes fewer side effects, compared to a higher dose (100 mg per day).
General considerations for when and how to take Pristiq include the following:
- The medication comes in the form of an extended-release tablet and is taken by mouth once a day.
- You can take Pristiq with or without food.
- Be sure to swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush, break, or chew them.
- Pristiq should be taken at the same time each day to maintain an even level in your blood.
- For the drug to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Pristiq will not work if you stop taking it. Do not stop taking it without your healthcare provider's approval.
The dose of Pristiq your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- How you respond to the drug
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may be taking.
As is always the case, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, side effects are possible with Pristiq. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects include but are not limited to:
(Click Pristiq Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider Before Taking Pristiq?
Talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this drug if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you are taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
Depression, even the most severe forms, is usually treatable. As with many illnesses, getting treatment for depression early is more effective and reduces the chance of recurrence.
The most common forms of treatment are medications (
antidepressants) and psychotherapy ("talk therapy"). In cases of severe depression, healthcare providers may recommend electroconvulsive therapy (ECT). People may also try complementary or alternative treatments for depression
(see Natural Remedies for Depression).
For most people, Pristiq is quite effective at treating depression. It is also generally well tolerated. However, side effects can occur, or the medicine may not work as well as needed. In these cases, your healthcare provider may recommend an alternative. Examples of alternative depression medications include:
What If I Take an Overdose?
People who take too much Pristiq may have overdose symptoms such as:
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Agitation
- Dizziness
- Constipation or diarrhea
- Dry mouth
- Unusual sensations, such as burning or tingling
- A rapid heart rate (tachycardia).
If you happen to overdose on this medicine, seek immediate medical attention.
How Should Pristiq Be Stored?
Pristiq should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. The tablets should be kept in an airtight container.
Keep it and all other medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Pristiq as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Pristiq tablets are available in the following strengths:
- Pristiq 50 mg
- Pristiq 100 mg.
