Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine)

Do’s

• Before starting Pristiq and each time you get a refill, read the Medication Guide and, if available, the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, ask your healthcare provider.
• Take Pristiq by mouth with or without food as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment
• Swallow Pristiq tablets whole to ensure the medication is released into your system as intended
• To reduce the risk of side effects, your healthcare provider may direct you to start Pristiq at a low dose and then gradually increase your dose. Follow their instructions carefully.
• Use Pristiq regularly at the same time each day to get the most benefit from it. Even if you feel well, continue taking the medication unless otherwise directed by your healthcare provider.
• If you are switching from another antidepressant to Pristiq, your healthcare provider should slowly reduce the dose of your old antidepressant to prevent withdrawal reactions. Consult your healthcare provider for more details.
• It may take several weeks before you experience the full benefit of Pristiq. If your condition does not improve or worsens, inform your healthcare provider.

Don’ts

• Do not crush, chew, or dissolve Pristiq in water. 
• Do not increase your dose or use the drug more often or for longer than prescribed.
• Do not stop taking Pristiq without consulting your healthcare provider. Some conditions may become worse when this drug is suddenly stopped. If you need to discontinue the medication, your healthcare provider may reduce your dose gradually to prevent withdrawal symptoms.

Common Side Effects:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Sweating
• Constipation
• Decreased appetite

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individual experiences may vary. If you have concerns about the potential side effects of Pristiq, discuss them with your healthcare provider for personalized guidance and support.

Pristiq should not be taken if you are allergic to desvenlafaxine succinate or venlafaxine hydrochloride, or if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) in the previous 14 days.

Pristiq may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in young people. Close monitoring is essential, and any changes in mood, feelings, thoughts, or behaviors should be reported to a healthcare provider.

Regular monitoring of blood pressure is recommended when taking Pristiq.

The concomitant use of Pristiq with certain medications, such as NSAIDs, aspirin, or other antiplatelet drugs, may increase the risk of bleeding. Inform healthcare providers about all medications being taken.

Observe for signs of activation of mania/hypomania while taking Pristiq.

Pristiq may cause drug discontinuation syndrome. Consult a healthcare provider before stopping the medication.

Discuss your health history, including any allergies, bipolar disorder, and other relevant conditions, with your healthcare provider before starting Pristiq.

Always consult a healthcare provider to ensure the information provided applies to your personal circumstances and for personalized guidance on the use of Pristiq.