Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine)

What is Pristiq?

Pristiq is a brand name for desvenlafaxine, which is a medication primarily used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. It belongs to the class of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Pristiq works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters in the brain that are believed to play a role in regulating mood.

Desvenlafaxine, the active ingredient in Pristiq, helps alleviate symptoms of depression such as persistent sadness, loss of interest or pleasure in activities, changes in appetite or weight, sleep disturbances, fatigue, suicidal tendencies, feelings of guilt, and trouble concentrating.

As with any medication, it's important to use Pristiq under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as they can monitor its effects and help manage any potential side effects or interactions with other medications.

How to use Pristiq?

Here are some general guidelines on how to use Pristiq:

• Follow your doctor's instructions: Always take Pristiq exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not alter the dosage or stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor first.
• Swallow the tablet as such: Avoid breaking, crushing, or chewing the tablet. Pristiq is an extended-release formulation designed to release the medication slowly over time. Breaking or crushing the tablet may lead to too much medication being released at once, which can increase the risk of side effects.
• Take it at the same time each day: To help establish a routine and ensure consistent blood levels of the medication, try to take Pristiq at the same time every day.
• Monitor your symptoms: Pay attention to how you feel while taking Pristiq. If you experience any new or worsening symptoms, or if you have concerns about side effects, contact your doctor.

What is Pristiq used for?

Pristiq, also known by its generic name desvenlafaxine, is primarily used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. It belongs to a class of medications called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), which work by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, two neurotransmitters in the brain that are believed to play a role in regulating mood.

In addition to treating major depressive disorder, Pristiq may also be prescribed for other conditions off-label, meaning it's used for purposes not specifically approved by regulatory authorities. These off-label uses may include generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), social anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and other mood disorders.

Side Effects of Pristiq:

Some potential side effects of Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine) may include:

• Nausea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Insomnia
• Drowsiness
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Weight loss
• Increased sweating
• Elevated blood pressure
• Anxiety or nervousness
• Fatigue
• Tremor
• Blurred vision

Safety/Warnings:

Here are some safety precautions and warnings associated with Pristiq (desvenlafaxine):

• Suicidal thoughts and behaviors: Like many antidepressant medications, Pristiq carries a warning about an increased risk of suicidal thoughts or behaviors, especially in young adults, adolescents, and children.
• Serotonin syndrome: Pristiq can increase serotonin levels in the brain, which may lead to a potentially life-threatening condition known as serotonin syndrome. This risk is higher when Pristiq is taken with other medications that also increase serotonin levels, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), or certain migraine medications.
• Discontinuation syndrome: Abruptly stopping Pristiq or reducing the dosage too quickly may result in discontinuation syndrome, which includes symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, headache, irritability, insomnia, fatigue, and sensory disturbances.
• Elevated blood pressure and heart rate: Pristiq may increase blood pressure and heart rate, especially at higher doses.
• Angle-closure glaucoma: Pristiq may dilate the pupils and increase the risk of angle-closure glaucoma, a serious eye condition characterized by sudden eye pain, blurred vision, redness, and halos around lights. Patients with a history of narrow-angle glaucoma should use Pristiq with caution and undergo regular eye examinations.

Drug Interactions:

Here are some notable drug interactions associated with Pristiq:

• Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) like Linezolid Or Methylene Blue
• Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like fentanyl, tryptophan, buspirone
• Triptans
• Tramadol
• NSAIDs and aspirin
• Warfarin and other anticoagulants

Different Dosages

Pristiq is available in several dosage strengths, typically in the form of extended-release tablets. The most common dosages of Pristiq are:

• 25 mg: This is the lowest available dosage of Pristiq and is often prescribed as the initial dose for individuals starting treatment or for those who may be more sensitive to medications.
• 50 mg: This is a standard dosage of Pristiq and may be the initial dose for some patients, or it may be titrated up from a lower dose based on individual response and tolerability.
• 100 mg: This is the highest available dosage of Pristiq and is typically used in patients who require higher doses to achieve a therapeutic effect or for those who have not responded adequately to lower doses.

Storage:

Here are some general guidelines for storing Pristiq tablets:

• Store Pristiq at room temperature between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
• Keep Pristiq away from moisture and humidity. Store the medication in a dry place.
• Store Pristiq in its original container with the lid tightly closed. This helps protect the tablets from exposure to air and moisture.

What is the Pristiq cost?

The cost of Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) can vary depending on several factors, including the dosage strength, the number of tablets per prescription, the pharmacy you purchase it from, your location, and whether you have health insurance coverage that includes prescription medications.

Pristiq is available as a brand-name medication, and its cost can be higher compared to generic alternatives. Without insurance coverage or discounts, the average retail price for a one-month supply of Pristiq can range from approximately $200 to $400 or more, depending on the dosage strength. However, prices may fluctuate over time due to factors such as changes in market demand, manufacturer pricing strategies, and the availability of generic alternatives.

Is it safe to buy Pristiq online from an Online Pharmacy?

You can buy Pristiq online from online pharmacy like MedsEngage at the best prices. They also provide accessible customer service and support to address any concerns or questions you may have about your order.

FAQs:

Do you lose weight or gain weight on Pristiq?

Weight changes, including both weight loss and weight gain, are potential side effects of Pristiq (desvenlafaxine). However, individual responses can vary, and not everyone will experience weight changes while taking the medication. It's important to discuss any concerns about weight changes with your healthcare provider, who can provide personalized guidance and support.

Is Pristiq a strong antidepressant?

Yes, Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) is classified as a potent antidepressant medication. As a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), it works by increasing levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which are neurotransmitters associated with mood regulation. Pristiq is often prescribed for moderate to severe cases of depression, providing robust therapeutic effects for many individuals.

How long does Pristiq stay in your system?

The half-life of Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) is approximately 11 hours, meaning it takes about 11 hours for half of the medication to be eliminated from the body. It generally takes several days for Pristiq to reach steady-state levels in the bloodstream, and it can take several days to weeks for the medication to be fully cleared from the system after discontinuation. Individual factors such as metabolism, liver function, and dosage may influence how long Pristiq stays in the body.

Should you take Pristiq AM PM?

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) is typically taken once daily, either in the morning or in the evening, depending on individual preference and tolerability. Some people find it more convenient to take Pristiq in the morning to help maintain a consistent routine, while others may prefer taking it in the evening to minimize potential side effects such as drowsiness during the day. Ultimately, it's essential to take Pristiq at the same time each day as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

How long does Pristiq take to work for anxiety?

The onset of therapeutic effects of Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for anxiety can vary among individuals. Some people may start to notice improvements in anxiety symptoms within a few weeks of starting treatment, while for others, it may take several weeks to a few months to experience the full benefit.

References:

• https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/021992s030lbl.pdf
• https://www.pristiq.com/