Pristiq® (
desvenlafaxine succinate) is a medication commonly used in the treatment of major
depression, also known as just depression. Common symptoms of this condition include sleeping too little or too much, feelings of hopelessness, and a lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyed. This drug is a
serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (
SNRI), which means it works by affecting these chemicals in the brain.
When prescribing Pristiq for depression, your healthcare provider will consider various factors, such as if other conditions are present or if you are taking any other medications. Keep in mind that it can take four to six weeks to see an improvement in depression symptoms. Often, other people may start to see a change before you do, so do not be discouraged if you feel like this medicine isn't working at first.
(Click Pristiq Uses to learn about other conditions this drug is prescribed for, how it works, and whether children can take it.)