What They Are and How to Manage Them

If you have depression, your doctor might suggest Pristiq as a treatment option for you.

Pristiq is a prescription drug that’s used to treat major depressive disorder in adults.

The active ingredient in Pristiq is desvenlafaxine. An active ingredient is what makes a drug work. Pristiq comes as a tablet that you swallow. It’s usually taken long term.

For more information about Pristiq, including details about its uses, see this in-depth article.

Like other drugs, Pristiq can cause mild to serious side effects. Keep reading to learn more.

Some people may experience mild to serious side effects during Pristiq treatment. Examples of Pristiq’s commonly reported side effects include:

• dizziness
• trouble sleeping
• increased sweating
• loss of appetite
• nausea*

* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effects explained” section below.

Read on to learn about other potential mild and serious side effects of Pristiq.

Pristiq may cause mild side effects. Examples of mild side effects that have been reported with Pristiq include:

• dizziness
• vomiting
• trouble sleeping
• increased sweating
• drowsiness
• loss of appetite
• anxiety
• dry mouth
• sexual side effects*
• nausea*
• headache*
• constipation*
• mild allergic reaction*

* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effects explained” section below.

In most cases, these side effects should be temporary. And some may be easily managed, too. But if you have any symptoms that are ongoing or bother you, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. And do not stop taking Pristiq unless your doctor recommends it.

Pristiq may cause mild side effects other than the ones listed above. See the Pristiq prescribing information for details.

Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks and reviews side effects of the medication. If you’d like to notify the FDA about a side effect you’ve had with Pristiq, visit MedWatch.

Pristiq can cause serious side effects, though these are usually rare. Serious side effects that have been reported with Pristiq are listed below. Some of these side effects were reported in studies of Pristiq. But others were reported after the drug became available on the market.

• increased blood pressure
• mania and hypomania, which cause elevated mood
• serotonin syndrome, resulting from a buildup of the chemical serotonin
• increased risk of bleeding, which may be life threatening
• angle-closure glaucoma, a serious eye condition
• discontinuation syndrome, which causes withdrawal symptoms
• seizures
• low level of sodium in the blood
• risk of suicidal thoughts and actions*
• severe allergic reaction†‡

* Pristiq has a boxed warning for this side effect. This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To learn more, see the “Side effects explained” section below.
† To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effects explained” section below.
‡ An allergic reaction is possible after taking Pristiq. But this side effect wasn’t reported in studies.

If you develop serious side effects while taking Pristiq, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Get answers to some frequently asked questions about Pristiq’s side effects.

Does Pristiq cause weight gain?

It’s possible. In studies of Pristiq, weight gain was not a reported side effect. But after Pristiq was made available on the market, some people who took it reported gaining weight.

It’s important to note that weight changes, including weight gain, can be a symptom of depression.

If you experience weight gain while taking Pristiq, talk with your doctor. They may have tips to help with this side effect.

If I suddenly stop taking Pristiq, will I have withdrawal symptoms?

Yes, it’s possible. Withdrawal symptoms may be a side effect of stopping Pristiq, and they can be mild or serious. Some of the mild symptoms of withdrawal include:

• nausea
• sweating
• dizziness
• headache
• trouble sleeping
• “brain zaps” (feeling an electrical jolt in the head that may travel to other parts of the body)
• irritability, anxiety, or agitation

Some serious symptoms of withdrawal include:

• seizure
• suicidal thoughts
• severe aggression
• increased blood pressure
• blurry vision

These side effects are more likely to happen if you stop taking Pristiq suddenly. If you want to stop taking Pristiq, talk with your doctor first. They’ll likely recommend that you take a smaller dose for a while rather than stopping Pristiq abruptly. It may take several months to stop taking Pristiq completely.

Will my risk of side effects be higher with the 100-mg dose of Pristiq than with lower doses of the drug?

It’s possible. During studies of Pristiq, people took different doses of the drug. The side effects that were reported were the same for each dosage. But more people who took the 100-milligram (mg) dose reported certain side effects than those who took the 50-mg dose. Some of these side effects were:

• dry mouth
• sleepiness
• trouble sleeping
• certain sexual side effects*
• nausea*

* To learn more about this side effect, see the “Side effects explained” section below.

Learn more about some of the side effects Pristiq may cause.

Risk of suicidal thoughts and actions

Pristiq carries a boxed warning about the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions in children, adolescents, and adults ages 24 years and younger. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Antidepressants such as Pristiq may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions in people under 25 years of age. The FDA has not approved the use of Pristiq in people ages 18 years or younger.

Symptoms of suicidal thoughts and actions include:

• sudden changes in mood, behaviors, thoughts, or feelings
• trouble sleeping
• new or worsened irritability or depression
• extreme anger, violence, or aggression
• extreme increase in talking, excitement, and activity, which can result from mania
• panic attack
• impulsive behavior
• thoughts about dying or hurting yourself
• suicide attempts

What might help

Keep track of how you feel while taking Pristiq. If you experience any of the symptoms listed above while taking Pristiq, tell your doctor right away.

Consider letting people close to you know about this Pristiq side effect and its symptoms. They can also help you watch out for these symptoms.

If you’re 18 to 24 years of age, your doctor may monitor you more closely for symptoms of suicidal thoughts and actions during Pristiq treatment.

Suicide prevention

If you know someone at immediate risk of self-harm, suicide, or hurting another person:

• Ask the tough question: “Are you considering suicide?”
• Listen to the person without judgment.
• Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis counselor.
• Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
• Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours per day when you call 988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 and then 800-273-8255.

Click here for more links and local resources.

Sexual side effects

Antidepressants such as Pristiq may cause sexual side effects. In studies of the drug, males* reported:

• decreased libido
• problems getting an erection
• delayed ejaculation

In studies of the drug, females* reported:

• not being able to reach orgasm
• decreased libido

* In this article, we use the terms “male” and “female” to refer to someone’s sex assigned at birth. For information about the difference between sex and gender, see this article.

What might help

Over time, sexual side effects may lessen on their own. Sometimes, switching to a different antidepressant may help. If you experience any sexual side effects while taking Pristiq, tell your doctor. They can suggest ways to help ease sexual side effects.

Nausea

In studies, nausea was a common side effect of Pristiq. By itself, nausea may be considered a mild side effect. But it can be a symptom of withdrawal, which may occur if you stop taking Pristiq suddenly. (For more information, see the “FAQs about Pristiq’s side effects” section above.)

Nausea may also be a symptom of serotonin syndrome. This is a serious condition that can happen when too much serotonin builds up in the body.

Other symptoms of serotonin syndrome include:

• confusion
• agitation
• dizziness
• racing heartbeat or changes in blood pressure
• flushing (temporary warmth, redness, or deepening of skin color) or sweating
• seizure
• muscle twitching or tremors
• seeing or hearing things that aren’t real
• increased body temperature
• severe vomiting or diarrhea
• coma

What might help

If you have nausea with Pristiq, the following tips may help ease this side effect:

• Take your dose with some crackers or toast.
• Try drinks or foods that contain ginger.
• Ask your doctor about medications that can help decrease nausea.

If your nausea is severe or occurs with the symptoms of serotonin syndrome listed above, seek immediate medical care.

Headache

Headache was a common side effect in short-term studies of Pristiq. This side effect was usually mild.

This side effect may also occur if you suddenly stop Pristiq. (For more information, see the “FAQs about Pristiq’s side effects” section above.)

Headaches may be a symptom of a low blood level of sodium. This is a side effect of certain antidepressants such as Pristiq, and it can be a serious problem. Older adults (ages 65 years and older) and people who take diuretics may have a higher risk of this side effect. Symptoms to watch out for include:

• confusion
• problems with concentration or memory
• feeling weak and unsteady
• seeing or hearing things that aren’t real
• seizure
• fainting
• coma

What might help

Mild headaches may lessen a few weeks after starting Pristiq. But if this side effect continues to bother you, talk with your doctor. They may recommend medications to treat your headaches.

If your headaches occur with the other symptoms of a low blood level of sodium listed above, seek immediate medical treatment.

Constipation

Constipation was a common, mild side effect in studies of Pristiq.

What might help

Constipation usually goes away after taking Pristiq for a few weeks. Drinking more water and mild exercise may help with this side effect.

If you experience constipation that becomes severe, talk with your doctor. They may recommend changes in your diet or medications to help relieve this side effect.

Allergic reaction

Like most drugs, Pristiq can cause an allergic reaction in some people. But this side effect wasn’t reported in studies.

Symptoms can be mild to serious and can include:

• skin rash
• itchiness
• flushing (temporary warmth, redness, or deepening of skin color)
• swelling under your skin, usually in your eyelids, lips, hands, or feet
• swelling of your mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe

What might help

If you have mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as a mild rash, call your doctor right away. They may suggest treatment options to manage your symptoms. Examples include:

• an antihistamine you take by mouth, such as Benadryl (diphenhydramine)
• a product you apply to your skin, such as hydrocortisone cream

If your doctor confirms you’ve had a mild allergic reaction to Pristiq, they’ll decide if you should continue taking it.

If you have symptoms of a severe allergic reaction, such as swelling or trouble breathing, call 911 or your local emergency number right away. These symptoms could be life threatening and require immediate medical care.

If your doctor confirms you’ve had a serious allergic reaction to Pristiq, they may have you switch to a different treatment.

Keeping track of side effects

During your Pristiq treatment, consider taking notes on any side effects you’re having. You can then share this information with your doctor. This is especially helpful when you first start taking new drugs or using a combination of treatments.

Your side effect notes can include things such as:

• what dose of the drug you were taking when you had the side effect
• how soon you had the side effect after starting that dose
• what your symptoms were
• how it affected your daily activities
• what other medications you were taking
• any other information you feel is important

Keeping notes and sharing them with your doctor will help them learn more about how Pristiq affects you. They can then use this information to adjust your treatment plan if needed.

Pristiq comes with several warnings.

Boxed warning: Risk of suicidal thoughts and actions

Pristiq has a boxed warning for the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions in children, adolescents, and adults ages 24 years and younger. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

To learn more, see the “Side effects explained” section above.

Other warnings

Pristiq may cause drug-condition interactions. This means that Pristiq may not be right for you if you have certain medical conditions. Other factors may also affect whether Pristiq is a good treatment option for you.

Talk with your doctor about your health history before starting Pristiq. The list below includes factors to consider.

High blood pressure. Pristiq can cause your blood pressure to increase.If you have high blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe medication to treat it before you start taking Pristiq. Then they’ll monitor your blood pressure to make sure it’s well-managed. If your blood pressure remains high, your doctor may adjust your dosage of Pristiq or recommend a different antidepressant.

Heart disease. If you have heart disease, Pristiq may make it worse. Pristiq can increase your blood pressure, which may worsen heart disease. If you have a history of heart disease or high blood pressure, tell your doctor before starting Pristiq treatment.

Stroke or ministroke. Pristiq can increase your blood pressure, so it may increase your risk of stroke if you’ve had one before. If you’ve had a stroke or if you’ve had any problems with high blood pressure, let your doctor know. This will help them determine whether it’s safe for you to take Pristiq.

Bleeding problems. Medications like Pristiq may increase your risk of bleeding. If you take medications that increase bleeding, your risk may be greater. Before you take Pristiq, make sure your doctor knows all of the medications you take.

Angle-closure glaucoma. Pristiq may cause dilation of the pupils in the eye. This can cause an episode of glaucoma in certain people. Because of this, doctors will likely not prescribe Pristiq to anyone with this kind of glaucoma. If you have a history of glaucoma or if you take any eye drops for glaucoma, tell your doctor. They’ll discuss with you treatment options that are safe for you to take.

Mania, hypomania, or bipolar disorder. Pristiq may not be the right medication for people who have had mania, hypomania, or bipolar disorder. It also may not be safe for people who have a family history of these mental health conditions. If you have bipolar disorder, Pristiq can increase your risk of a manic episode. Before you start Pristiq treatment, tell your doctor about any mental health conditions you or close family members have had.

Allergic reaction. If you’ve had an allergic reaction to Pristiq or any of its ingredients, your doctor will likely not prescribe Pristiq. Ask them what other medications are better options for you.

Seizures or epilepsy. Pristiq was not studied in people with a history of seizures or epilepsy. If you’ve ever had a seizure or have epilepsy, tell your doctor. They’ll let you know if Pristiq is safe for you to take.

Low sodium level. Pristiq can lower the blood level of sodium, which can become a serious problem. Older adults (ages 65 years and older) or people who take diuretics may have a higher risk of this side effect. If you are an older adult or take a diuretic, or have had problems with a low sodium level in the past, your doctor will let you know whether it’s safe to take Pristiq.

Liver problems. If you have liver problems, your body may have trouble getting rid of Pristiq. Before you start treatment, tell your doctor about any liver problems you have or have had. They may prescribe a lower dosage of Pristiq.

Kidney problems. If you have kidney problems, your body may have trouble getting rid of Pristiq. Before you start treatment, tell your doctor about any kidney problems you have or have had. They may recommend that you take a lower dosage of Pristiq.

High cholesterol or triglycerides. Pristiq may increase cholesterol or triglycerides in certain people. If you’ve had high cholesterol or triglycerides or take medication to treat these conditions, tell your doctor. They may recommend more frequent blood tests to check levels of these substances while you’re taking Pristiq.

Alcohol and Pristiq

You should not take Pristiq with alcohol. Alcohol may increase your risk of side effects and may make depression worse.

Before you start taking Pristiq, tell your doctor if you drink alcohol. They may suggest ways to stop drinking or recommend a different medication for you.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Pristiq

Before taking Pristiq, talk with your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. They can help you decide if Pristiq is the best choice for you during this time.

Certain antidepressants can increase the risk of preeclampsia or bleeding complications during pregnancy. Taking Pristiq in the third trimester of pregnancy may cause withdrawal symptoms in your newborn.

If you become pregnant during treatment with Pristiq, ask your doctor about registering with the National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants. This registry gathers data from people who’ve taken Pristiq while pregnant. This data can help determine the safety of taking antidepressants such as Pristiq during pregnancy.

Small amounts of Pristiq may pass into breast milk. But it’s not known if Pristiq is safe to take during breastfeeding. If you’re breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about ways to safely feed your child during treatment with Pristiq.

Pristiq may help treat your depression symptoms. Some people have mild side effects from the drug, such as nausea and constipation. More serious side effects from Pristiq aren’t common.

If you have questions about Pristiq’s side effects, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. Here are a few questions to ask about treatment with Pristiq:

• Is my risk of sexual side effects higher when I first start treatment?
• Does my risk of nausea and vomiting depend on what dose I take?
• Does Pristiq have more side effects than other drugs that treat my condition?

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Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

Side effects and what to do about them

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) is a prescription brand-name medication. It’s approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat major depressive disorder in adults. This is a serious mental health condition often referred to as clinical depression or depression.

If you and your doctor agree that Pristiq is working to treat your depression, you’ll likely take the medication long term.

Here are some fast facts about Pristiq:

• Active ingredient: desvenlafaxine
• Drug class: serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI)
• Drug form: extended-release tablet

Like other drugs, Pristiq can cause side effects. Read on to learn about potential common, mild, and serious side effects. For a general overview of Pristiq, see this article.

Pristiq can cause certain side effects, some of which are more common than others. These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. But if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

These are just a few of the more common side effects reported by people who took Pristiq in clinical trials:

• nausea
• dizziness
• insomnia (trouble sleeping)
• excessive sweating
• constipation

Mild side effects can occur with Pristiq use. This list doesn’t include all possible mild side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Pristiq’s prescribing information.

Mild side effects that have been reported with Pristiq include:

• nausea
• dizziness
• insomnia (trouble sleeping)
• excessive sweating
• constipation
• sleepiness
• decreased appetite
• feeling anxious
• fatigue (low energy)
• tremor
• dry mouth
• vomiting
• headache*
• sexual side effects*

These side effects may be temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. But if the side effects last longer than that, bother you, or become severe, be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Note: After the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approves a drug, it tracks and reviews side effects of the medication. If you develop a side effect while taking Pristiq and want to tell the FDA about it, visit MedWatch.

* For more information, see the “Side effect specifics” section below.

Pristiq may cause serious side effects. The list below may not include all possible serious side effects of the drug. For more information, you can refer to Pristiq’s prescribing information.

If you develop serious side effects while taking Pristiq, call your doctor right away. If the side effects seem life threatening or you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Serious side effects that have been reported with Pristiq and their symptoms include:

• Serotonin syndrome (high level of the chemical serotonin). Symptoms can include:
  • fast heartbeat
  • feeling agitated
  • flushing (temporary warmth, redness, or deepening of skin color)
  • muscle stiffness or twitching
  • nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
• Seizures. Symptoms can include:
  • drooling
  • loss of consciousness
  • loss of control of your bladder or bowels
  • sudden uncontrolled eye movements
  • uncontrolled muscle spasms
• Low blood sodium levels. Symptoms can include:
  • trouble concentrating
  • feeling confused
  • feeling weak and unsteady, which could lead to falls
  • headache
  • memory changes
• Lung problems, including pneumonia or interstitial lung disease (scarring in your lungs). Symptoms can include:
  • cough
  • trouble breathing
  • discomfort in your chest
• Bleeding more easily than usual. Symptoms can include:
  • bloody or black-colored stools, which may appear tar-like
  • bruising easily
  • nosebleeds
  • vomiting up blood, which may appear pink
• Suicidal thoughts and actions.*†
• Discontinuation syndrome.†
• High blood pressure.†
• Allergic reaction.†

* Pristiq has a boxed warning for this side effect. This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
† For more information, see the “Side effect specifics” section below.

Long-term side effects

Although Pristiq can cause some serious side effects, these were rarely reported in clinical studies. Most of them aren’t long term and should go away if treatment with Pristiq is stopped.

But in rare cases, Pristiq may cause long-term side effects. For example, interstitial lung disease (scarring in your lungs) may not go away, even if you stop taking Pristiq. And if you develop high blood pressure from Pristiq, you may need to take medication long term for this condition.

Pristiq may also cause long-term side effects in people who already have certain medical conditions. For more information, see the “Precautions for Pristiq” section below.

Pristiq may cause several side effects. Here are some frequently asked questions about the drug’s side effects and their answers.

Do Pristiq side effects go away?

If your doctor prescribes Pristiq for you, you may wonder how long Pristiq side effects last.

Most mild side effects caused by Pristiq usually go away on their own after a few days to weeks. Although the medication can also cause serious side effects, most of these can be treated and go away if you stop taking Pristiq.

But in rare cases, Pristiq may cause long-term side effects that don’t go away. For more information, see “Long-term side effects” in the “Serious side effects” section above.

Are weight gain and weight loss side effects of Pristiq?

A very small number of people reported weight gain from taking Pristiq in clinical studies. In addition, decreased appetite was a common side effect in people who took Pristiq. Having less of an appetite may cause you to lose weight.

Keep in mind that depression, which Pristiq is prescribed to treat, can also affect your appetite and your weight. It can be difficult to know whether weight changes are due to depression symptoms easing, medications (such as Pristiq), or a combination of factors.

If you’re concerned about your weight, talk with your doctor. They can advise you on how to maintain a moderate weight with your depression treatment plan.

Could stopping Pristiq treatment cause side effects of withdrawal?

Yes, stopping treatment with antidepressants, such as Pristiq, can cause side effects of withdrawal. This is also known as antidepressant discontinuation syndrome.

For more information about this syndrome and Pristiq, see the “Side effects specific” section below.

Do Pristiq’s side effects vary depending on the strength (25 mg, 50 mg, 100 mg)?

Yes, Pristiq’s side effects can vary depending on the strength. In general, side effects are more likely to happen with higher doses.

To see more information about how side effects varied depending on strength in clinical trials, you can refer to the Pristiq’s prescribing information.

Does Pristiq cause side effects when you first start treatment?

It’s possible for Pristiq to cause side effects when you first start treatment. Some of the more common ones when you begin taking the drug can include:

• nausea
• dizziness
• decreased appetite
• feeling anxious

For most people, these side effects are usually mild and ease within a few days to weeks.

Keep in mind that side effects can occur at any time while you take Pristiq. If your doctor increases your dose of the drug, side effects may become more bothersome.

If you have side effects that don’t go away or become severe during your Pristiq treatment, be sure to talk with your doctor.

Learn more about some of the side effects that Pristiq may cause.

Headache

It’s possible to have headache as a side effect from Pristiq. But this wasn’t commonly reported by people taking the medication in clinical studies.

Headache can also be a symptom of serious side effects of Pristiq. These side effects rarely occurred with the drug but can include:

• high blood pressure
• low blood sodium levels
• closed-angle glaucoma,* in certain people

* To learn more, see the “Precautions for Pristiq” section below.

What you can do

If you have a sudden, severe headache while taking Pristiq, talk with your doctor right away. This could be a symptom of the serious side effects mentioned above.

If you have a mild headache while during Pristiq treatment, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. Certain over-the-counter pain relievers may increase your risk of bleeding if you take them with Pristiq. This is why it’s important to not take any medication for headache unless you first speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

Sexual side effects

Pristiq can rarely cause sexual side effects. Such side effects can occur with antidepressant medications, including Pristiq.

Sexual side effects were more likely to happen in males* taking Pristiq in clinical trials and included:

• reduced sex drive
• erectile dysfunction
• delayed ejaculation or not being able to ejaculate

A small number of females* taking Pristiq in these studies reported reduced sex drive and not being able to have an orgasm.

The risk of sexual side effects increases with higher doses of Pristiq.

* Sex and gender exist on spectrums. Use of the terms “male” and “female” in this article refers to sex assigned at birth.

What you can do

If you have sexual side effects while taking Pristiq, talk with your doctor. These side effects may ease over time. But if they don’t go away, your doctor may recommend that you switch to a different antidepressant. They can recommend the best treatment plan for your depression.

Discontinuation syndrome

Stopping treatment with antidepressants, such as Pristiq, can cause side effects of withdrawal. This is also known as antidepressant discontinuation syndrome. It’s not known how often people taking Pristiq in clinical studies had withdrawal symptoms.

Withdrawal symptoms can be severe, especially if you suddenly stop taking a high dose of Pristiq. Withdrawal symptoms can include:

• aggressive or hostile behavior
• confusion
• diarrhea
• dizziness
• feeling agitated, anxious, or irritated
• feeling pins and needles or having electric shock sensations
• headache
• insomnia (trouble sleeping)
• changes in mood
• nausea
• seizures
• suicidal thoughts and actions*
• tinnitus (ringing or other noise in your ears)
• tremor

Keep in mind that missing a dose of Pristiq may also cause mild withdrawal symptoms. They can include dizziness, headache, changes in mood, and feeling anxious. These symptoms should ease shortly after you take a dose. To help make sure that you don’t miss a dose, try using a medication reminder.

* Pristiq has a boxed warning for this side effect. This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). To learn more, see “Suicidal thoughts and actions” below.

What you can do

You should not stop taking Pristiq unless your doctor specifically advises you to.

If you’re interested in stopping Pristiq treatment, talk with your doctor. They can suggest a drug taper for you. A drug taper is when your doctor slowly decreases your dosage over time until it’s safe for you to stop taking the medication. Tapering drugs such as Pristiq can help avoid or minimize withdrawal symptoms. Keep in mind that if you’re taking a high dose of Pristiq, your drug taper may take several months.

High blood pressure

Treatment with Pristiq can cause hypertension (high blood pressure), but this wasn’t common in clinical studies.

High blood pressure doesn’t cause symptoms in most people.

If you have certain medical conditions, they may worsen if you take Pristiq and have high blood pressure as a side effect. These conditions include:

• high blood pressure
• heart disease
• history of stroke or ministroke

To learn more, see the “Precautions for Pristiq” section below.

What you can do

Before you start taking Pristiq, your doctor will typically check your blood pressure. They’ll also monitor your blood pressure during your treatment.

If you have high blood pressure, it will need to be treated before you start taking Pristiq.

If you develop high blood pressure, your doctor will typically decrease your Pristiq dose. But if your blood pressure remains high, they may recommend a different treatment for your depression.

Allergic reaction

As with most drugs, Pristiq can cause an allergic reaction in some people. This side effect was rare in clinical studies of the drug.

Symptoms of allergic reaction can be mild or serious and can include:

• rash
• itching
• flushing (temporary warmth, redness, or deepening of skin color)
• swelling under your skin, typically in your lips, eyelids, feet, or hands
• swelling of your mouth, tongue, or throat, which can make it hard to breathe

What you can do

For mild symptoms of an allergic reaction, call your doctor right away. They may recommend ways to ease your symptoms and determine whether you should keep taking Pristiq. But if your symptoms are serious and you think you’re having a medical emergency, immediately call 911 or your local emergency number.

Suicidal thoughts and actions

Pristiq has a boxed warning about suicidal thoughts and actions. This is the most serious warning from the FDA. A boxed warning alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.

Antidepressant drugs, including Pristiq, can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and actions in children and young adults younger than age 25 years. This risk is highest during your first few months of taking an antidepressant and any time your dose is changed.

Pristiq is not approved for use in people younger than age 18.

It’s important to note that depression and other mental health conditions are often linked to suicidal thoughts or actions.

What you can do

While taking Pristiq, call your doctor right away if you:

• have aggressive or hostile behavior
• feel that your depression is getting worse
• have sudden changes in your behavior, feelings, mood, or thoughts
• have thoughts about harming yourself or dying
• have new or worsening anxiety
• have panic attacks
• try to harm yourself or attempt to take your own life

During your Pristiq treatment, it’s important to keep all follow-up appointments with your doctor. You can also talk with your doctor in between visits if you have concerns about any symptoms.

Suicide prevention

If you know someone at immediate risk of self-harm, suicide, or hurting another person:

• Ask the tough question: “Are you considering suicide?”
• Listen to the person without judgment.
• Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis counselor.
• Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
• Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.

Click here for more links and local resources.

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Keep reading for important information about precautions to consider before you start taking Pristiq.

Boxed warning: Suicidal thoughts and actions

Pristiq has a boxed warning for suicidal thoughts and actions. This is a serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). For details, see the “Side effect specifics” section above.

Other precautions

Be sure to talk with your doctor about your health history before you take Pristiq. This drug may not be the right treatment for you if you have certain medical conditions or other factors that affect your health. The conditions and factors to consider include:

Bipolar disorder, mania, or hypomania. Pristiq may not be safe for you to take if you or a close relative has ever had bipolar disorder, mania, or hypomania. Antidepressants such as Pristiq may worsen these problems or increase your risk of a manic episode. In addition, Pristiq is not approved to treat bipolar depression. Be sure to talk with your doctor about your mental health before you start taking Pristiq.

High bleeding risk. Treatment with Pristiq can increase your risk of bleeding. Your risk may be higher than usual if you already have a bleeding problem, such as hemophilia, or take certain drugs. These medications include blood thinners and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Your doctor can determine if Pristiq is safe for you to take with your condition and current treatments.

Heart problems. Taking Pristiq can cause increases in your blood pressure. This could worsen any existing heart problem, including heart disease, you already have. Your doctor can advise you on whether Pristiq is safe for you to take if you have a heart problem.

High blood pressure. Taking Pristiq can cause increases in your blood pressure. People who already have high blood pressure may need to be monitored more closely if they take Pristiq. Your blood pressure needs to be treated before you can consider treatment with Pristiq. Your doctor can help determine if Pristiq is safe for you to take with your high blood pressure.

High cholesterol or triglycerides. Pristiq may raise cholesterol or triglyceride levels in some people, but this isn’t common. If your levels are already high, taking Pristiq could worsen them. Your doctor can advise you on whether Pristiq is safe for you to take if you have high cholesterol or triglyceride levels. If they prescribe Pristiq, they may monitor your levels more often than usual.

History of stroke or ministroke. Taking Pristiq can cause increases in your blood pressure. This can raise your risk of stroke or ministroke if you’ve had one in the past. Your doctor can determine if Pristiq is safe for you to take if you have history of stroke or ministroke.

Kidney or liver problems. After you take a dose of Pristiq, your kidneys and liver help remove the drug from your system. If you have kidney or liver problems, this may be harder for your body to do. So your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of Pristiq than usual. If your kidney or liver problems worsen during treatment, they may have you stop taking the drug. Your doctor may also recommend a different medication.

Low blood sodium levels. Treatment with Pristiq can cause low blood sodium levels in some people. You may have an increased risk of this side effect if you’re age 65 years or older or take a diuretic. If you already have low sodium levels, taking Pristiq could worsen your condition. Your doctor can help determine if Pristiq is safe for you to take.

Seizures and epilepsy. Some people reported seizures after taking Pristiq in clinical trials. The drug wasn’t studied in people who previously had seizures. So it’s not known whether Pristiq is safe for people with epilepsy or another condition that causes seizures. Your doctor can advise you on whether Pristiq is safe for you.

Allergic reaction. You should not take Pristiq If you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to Pristiq or any of its ingredients. Talk with your doctor about which other treatments are better choices for you.

Alcohol use with Pristiq

The manufacturer of Pristiq advises that you avoid drinking alcohol while taking the medication. Drinking alcohol may increase your risk of certain side effects of Pristiq, including:

• dizziness
• sexual problems*
• sleepiness

Drinking alcohol can also make depression worse. (Pristiq is approved to treat depression.)

Before you start treatment with Pristiq, tell your doctor if you drink alcohol. They can help develop the best treatment plan for your depression.

* For details, see the “Side effect specifics” section above.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding while taking Pristiq

Here’s some information about pregnancy, breastfeeding, and Pristiq.

Pregnancy. Pristiq has not been studied in pregnant people. Before you start taking Pristiq, tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or plan to become pregnant. They can advise you on the risks and benefits of Pristiq treatment.

Be sure to talk with your doctor if you become pregnant during your Pristiq treatment.

If you decide to take Pristiq while pregnant, talk with your doctor about joining the National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants. This registry helps identify effects that may occur when antidepressants are used during pregnancy. You can learn more by visiting the registry website.

Breastfeeding. Pristiq passes into human breast milk in low levels. But the drug has not been shown to cause side effects in a breastfed child.

If you’re breastfeeding or considering it, talk with your doctor. They can discuss the risks and benefits of taking Pristiq and recommend healthy ways to feed your child.

Like most medications, Pristiq can cause side effects. Most are mild and usually go away on their own after a few days to weeks. Pristiq can also cause some serious side effects. You should talk with your doctor if you have any side effects that last, are bothersome, or are serious.

You should also talk with your doctor if you become pregnant while taking Pristiq.

If you’d like to learn more about Pristiq, talk with your doctor or pharmacist. They can help answer any questions you have about side effects from taking the drug.

You can also do some research on your own. These articles might help:

• More information about Pristiq. For details about other aspects of Pristiq, refer to this article.
• A look at depression. To learn more about depression, see our mental health hub or list of depression articles.

Disclaimer: Medical News Today has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

Nausea. Symptoms, treatment | Directory KLRTS

Moscow, st. Partizanskaya, 41

Kuntsevsky
medical and rehabilitation center.

What is nausea

Nausea is an unpleasant sensation in the upper third of the abdomen and throat. It is not always a sign of poisoning and sometimes signals more serious pathologies, so this symptom should not be ignored. Attacks of nausea and discomfort are a common occurrence in diseases of the gallbladder, liver, stomach and other organs of the gastrointestinal tract.

Types and causes of occurrence

Nausea does not occur without a cause. Among the main provoking factors, overeating, nervous strain, a side effect when taking certain medications, hormonal disorders, hyperthermia and diseases of the digestive system should be noted.
Based on practice, many visits to a specialist for persistent nausea are associated with a latent course of cholecystitis, gastrointestinal ulcers, gastritis, pancreatitis, intestinal obstruction and individual intolerance to certain foods, colitis, Crohn’s disease, hepatitis, liver failure, biliary dyskinesia, etc. .

Symptoms

The majority of visits to the doctor of the Kuntsevo Medical and Rehabilitation Center are associated with attacks of nausea, combined with the following symptoms:

• vomiting. Mild nausea and vomiting or urge to vomit – fairly common together,
• abdominal pain,
• bad breath,
• chills, trembling and weakness,
• temperature increase,
• diarrhea and stool disorder,
• muscle weakness,
• dizzy,
• discoloration of the skin.

Nausea is especially dangerous against the background of lack of air, changes in the color and structure of feces, drowsiness, and fainting. In this case, the specialists of the Kuntsevo Medical and Rehabilitation Center are ready to provide medical assistance in a short time.

Which doctor treats nausea? The doctor accepts by appointment. Anyone can choose the day and time of admission on the site, or by calling.

To make an appointment with a doctor, choose any method:

• call the clinic +7 (495) 103-99-55,
• order a callback,
• leave an application for an appointment, through a convenient form on the website:

IMPORTANT! Nausea only seems to be a minor symptom, which quickly passes and does not lead to serious consequences. It is impossible to underestimate this important signal of the body that alarming changes are taking place at some level of regulation.

In order to understand the problem, determine the causes of the symptom and correct the problem, contact our treatment and rehabilitation center to an experienced and qualified specialist! Our doctors guarantee an individual approach to each patient at reasonable prices. Make an appointment with our doctor and forget about anxiety about nausea!

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Methods of treatment

Based on such a list of tests as the study of intestinal microflora, blood and feces, the doctor determines the inflammatory process. This list is supplemented by other examinations depending on the clinical picture.
Taking into account the age of the patient, the results of tests, the patient’s condition, the diagnosis is determined, and treatment is prescribed. The main goal of paid treatment for nausea is to eradicate its cause. For this, etiological and pathogenetic therapy involves taking medications.
If the symptoms do not subside within a few days, then the doctor adjusts the tactics of therapy and prescribes the use of anticholinergics, antipsychotics, H1 blockers, etc. As additional recommendations, he recommends taking warm water with lemon, chewing mints to stop symptoms at an unnecessary moment.

Why we should treat nausea

It is impossible to make a diagnosis without a good diagnosis. The clinic near the Molodezhnaya metro station has all the conditions for examination, treatment of nausea and subsequent recovery of patients. Thanks to the complete set of our center, you do not need to spend a lot of time on analyzes – in our own laboratory, the results are prepared in an hour. Without leaving the walls of the Kuntsevsky Medical and Rehabilitation Center, the patient immediately consults with a gastroenterologist and receives a treatment regimen.

References:

1. Gastroenterology (reference book). Ed. V.T. Ivashkina, S.I. Rapoport – M .: Publishing house “Russian doctor”, 1998
2. Communicable diseases: national guidelines. Ed. N.D. Yushchuk, Yu.Ya. Vengerov. M. : GEOTAR-Media, 2009
3. Yushchuk N.D., Brodov L.E. Acute intestinal infections. Diagnosis and treatment. — M.: Medicine, 2001
4. Henderson JM. Pathophysiology of the digestive system. Translation from English – M. – St. Petersburg: Binom – Nevsky Dialect, 1997

Article author:

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Causes of nausea – Omega-Kyiv reference book

Nausea is one of the most painful conditions of the human body. The feeling of nausea does not allow you to fully enjoy life, spoils your appetite and inspires a feeling of weakness. Also, nausea is a symptom of many life-threatening diseases. If nausea does not go away after vomiting, but accompanies a person for more than a few days, you need to contact a medical center and undergo a comprehensive examination. Only diagnosis and accompanying symptoms can determine the cause of persistent nausea.

Causes of regular nausea:

• Taking medication. Some drugs, in addition to direct drug effects on the body, can cause side effects. One of the most common is nausea, lethargy and weakness. Nausea can be provoked by long-term use of anthelmintic and antiviral agents. Also, when treating with antibiotics, it is necessary to take a drug that normalizes the microflora of the stomach. If you do not follow the complex reception – there is a feeling of nausea and weakness;
• Gallstone disease. A disease in which the formation of stagnation of bile occurs with the subsequent formation of stones. One of the symptoms is nausea, pain in the lower abdomen, lack of appetite;
• Cholecystitis. This disease is characterized by the formation of stones and inflammation of the walls of the gallbladder. One of the main symptoms of the disease is a constant feeling of nausea, especially activated during meals. In addition to nausea, the disease is manifested by a metallic taste in the mouth and severe heartburn;
• Gastritis. The disease is a sign of inflammation of the gastric mucosa. Irritated stomach walls provoke a feeling of nausea, especially during or after eating. Gastritis must be treated with medication, as well as adhere to a special diet;
• Poisoning. This cause of nausea is the most common, as spoiled foods may not lose their own flavor and be eaten. When poisoned, a person is tormented by nausea, the urge to vomit, diarrhea, headache and a strong feeling of weakness. If the temperature rises sharply, you need to contact the clinic and undergo drug therapy;
• Arterial hypertension. Quite often, an increase in pressure in the blood vessels is accompanied by a feeling of nausea, and, consequently, weakness, dizziness and lack of appetite. After taking special medications that normalize blood pressure, the feeling of nausea disappears;
• Concussion. With severe bruising of the head, the patient is tormented by nausea and vomiting. The cause of the symptom is a disturbance in the normal functioning of the central nervous system;
• Pancreatitis. With inflammation of the pancreas, there is girdle pain, a feeling of nausea and lack of appetite;
• Vestibular apparatus. A weak vestibular apparatus is the cause of sudden nausea while traveling by car, bus and subway. It is especially difficult for such people to overcome the feeling of nausea during takeoff and landing;
• Intestinal infections. When infected with an intestinal infection, a person feels a strong feeling of nausea, accompanied by vomiting. In addition to these symptoms, there is severe abdominal pain, general weakness, and a fever may occur. Intestinal infections should not be treated on their own, you need to see a doctor and undergo drug therapy;
• Migraine. This neuralgic problem is characterized by severe, prolonged and regular pain, which is accompanied by a feeling of nausea and apathy;
• Cardiovascular diseases. With myocardial infarction, the blood supply to the body is disturbed, which entails sharp pain, a feeling of suffocation, lack of air and nausea;
• Fasting and diets. Girls who are on strict diets for a long time limit the body in the required amount of vitamins, proteins and carbohydrates. Nutritional deficiencies lead to exhaustion, nausea and loss of energy.

Nausea during critical days and during pregnancy

During the menstrual cycle, changes occur in a woman’s body, and intracranial pressure also increases. This is what causes constant nausea, vomiting, dizziness and a feeling of general weakness. A critical condition can last for several days, and then disappear without a trace until the next menstruation.

During pregnancy, the female body goes through a large number of hormonal changes.