Pristiq

The active ingredient in Pristiq is desvenlafaxine. As an SNRI, it increases the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain which helps to regulate mood and emotions.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Pristiq. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Pristiq:

• Use exactly as prescribed. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of use.
• Pristiq is typically taken once daily by mouth with or without food. Take the tablets whole. Crushing or splitting the tablets can affect how the medication works in the body.
• Pristiq can make you feel drowsy. Take some time to see how Pristiq affects you before driving or operating heavy machinery.
• Do not drink alcohol while taking Pristiq.
• Do not use Pristiq if you have stopped taking an MAOI in the last 14 days. Do not use an MAOI if you have stopped taking Pristiq in the last 7 days.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

The most common side effects of Pristiq seen in clinical trials as compared to placebo include:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Trouble sleeping
• Hyperhidrosis (increased sweating)
• Constipation
• Somnolence or drowsiness
• Loss of appetite
• Anxiety
• Sexual dysfunction, especially in males

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Pristiq. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Symptoms of serotonin syndrome such as agitation, confusion, rapid heartbeat, dizziness, seizures, hallucinations, sweating and feeling feverish, muscle twitching, stiff muscles, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Serotonin syndrome is life-threatening and is more common if Pristiq is started at higher doses or if it is used in combination with other serotonergic agents.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction such as difficulty breathing, hives, rash, or swelling.
• Worsening or new onset of high blood pressure.
• Unusual bleeding or bruising. Pristiq in combination with certain medications (especially NSAIDs or blood thinners) can increase the risk of bleeding.
• Signs of angle-closure glaucoma such as changes in vision or eye pain.
• Seizures or convulsions.
• Signs of hyponatremia or low blood sodium levels such as headache, poor concentration, changes in memory, confusion, or weakness.
• Signs of lung problems difficulty breathing, cough, or chest pain. Some may develop interstitial lung disease or eosinophilic pneumonia.
• Concerns about sexual function. Pristiq can affect sex drive, ejaculation, and orgasm.
• Signs of suicidal thoughts or behaviors. Caregivers and people taking Pristiq should watch for unusual changes in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings and contact the prescriber if changes are sudden or there is a risk for harm.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Pristiq. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Pristiq, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Heart problems
• History of stroke or cerebrovascular problems
• Bleeding problems
• Personal or family history of bipolar disorder, mania, or hypomania
• High cholesterol or high triglycerides
• History of depression, suicidal thoughts, or behaviors
• Kidney problems
• Liver impairment
• Seizure disorder
• Hyponatremia (low sodium levels)
• Are using another antidepressant
• Are pregnant or plan to become pregnant
• Are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed

Boxed Warning

• With Pristiq, there is an increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, teens, and young adults taking antidepressants. Pristiq is not approved for use in children.

Do not use Pristiq if you have:

• An allergy or hypersensitivity to desvenlafaxine succinate, venlafaxine hydrochloride, or any of the other inactive ingredients found in Pristiq
• Are taking an MAOI or have stopped taking one in the last 14 days

You may see some symptom improvement within the first 2 weeks but it can take up to 2 months of consistent use to see the full effects of desvenlafaxine.

When Pristiq is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) such as selegiline, tranylcypromine, isocarboxazid, phenelzine, linezolid, methylene blue
• SSRIs
• SNRIs
• Triptans
• Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
• Any opioids, especially fentanyl, tramadol, methadone, or meperidine
• Lithium
• Buspirone
• Amphetamines
• Tryptophan
• St. John’s Wort
• NSAIDs
• Aspirin
• Warfarin
• Desipramine
• Atomoxetine
• Dextromethorphan
• Metoprolol
• Nebivolol
• Perphenazine
• Tolterodine

Pristiq extended-release tablets are available in the following strengths:

• 25 mg
• 50 mg
• 100 mg

Pristiq should be stored at room temperature, away from extreme temperatures and light, and out of reach of children.

Pristiq is manufactured by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer.

Yes, a generic version of the brand name Pristiq is available.

Pristiq will need to be gradually tapered over time under the supervision of a healthcare provider to minimize adverse events. Abruptly stopping could lead to discontinuation syndrome which can include symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headache, irritability, anxiety, aggression, sweating, seizures, tinnitus, abnormal sensations (electric shock, tingling), changes in vision, and mood swings. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing medications while taking Pristiq.

There may be some risks associated with taking Pristiq during pregnancy. Taking it in the third trimester of pregnancy can cause your newborn baby to have withdrawal symptoms such as trouble eating and breathing, unstable body temperatures, and seizures from Pristiq. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Pristiq can pass into the breast milk and may affect the breastfeeding infant. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.