What is Pristiq ER used for?

Pristiq ER is prescribed to treat major depressive disorder (MDD), also known as clinical depression, in adults. Depression is a mood disorder that involves a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest. It is different from the mood fluctuations that people regularly experience as a part of life, and it can affect adults, adolescents, and children. This medication may improve your mood, sleep, appetite, and energy level and may help restore your interest in daily living.

You can buy Pristiq ER (Desvenlafaxine) online at My Drug Center. We have the Pristiq ER generic, called Devenlafaxine, available for purchase as well.

How does Pristiq ER work?

Pristiq contains the active ingredient Desvenlafaxine, which belongs to a class of drugs called antidepressants. This medication is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). The Desvenlafaxine dosage works by increasing the level of two neurotransmitters, called serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain to improve mood disorders.  

Before taking your prescribed Pristiq ER dosage, read all the instructions that was provided by your pharmacist. Take Pristiq orally once a day. This medication can be taken with or without food. Make sure you take Pristiq at the same time each day to create a routine for yourself and to ensure an even spread of the Desvenlafaxine dosage in your system. For optimal results take this medication on a regular basis. Do not change or increase your Pristiq ER dosage. You should continue taking this medication even if you feel well. 

Your doctor may choose to start you off on a low dose and gradually increase your Pristiq ER dosage to prevent side effects. Follow your doctors instructions explicitly to ensure you are taking the correct dose. Some tablets have score lines, however, you should not break them apart unless instructed to by your doctor. The medication should be swallowed whole to ensure you get a correct dose of the medication.

Pristiq ER or the Desvenlafaxine generic may contain medical and non medical ingredients that could cause an allergic reaction. Consult with your doctor about any known allergies before taking Pristiq. Speak with your doctor about any known medical conditions especially those relating to bipolar disorder, history of suicide attempts, bleeding problems, family history of glaucoma, high blood pressure, heart problems, heart stroke, high cholesterol, kidney disease, liver disease, seizures, and low sodium in the blood. Tell your doctor about any current medications or supplementation to avoid interactions or unwanted side effects of Desvenlafaxine.

Avoid operating heavy machinery, driving a motor vehicle, or performing other dangerous activities until you know how Pristiq affects you. The drug can cause sleepiness and may worsen your ability to make decisions, think clearly, or react quickly.

While taking this medication, you may feel dizzy, drowsy or experience blurred vision. Avoid driving a vehicle or operating heavy machinery until you feel it is safe. Alcohol and Cannabis can exasperate these side effects. Additionally you can speak with your doctor about acceptable limits for these substances while taking Pristiq.

Some Pristiq ER side effects include:

Drowsiness, fatigue, anxiety, dizziness, nausea, dry mouth, constipation, tightness in your jaw, loss of appetite, weight loss, blurred vision, nervousness, trouble sleeping, or excessive sweating, decreased sex drive, impotence, or difficulty having an orgasm

If any side effects of Desvenlafaxine become unmanageable speak with your doctor or pharmacist for help in managing any side effects. For any serious side effects that occur speak with your doctor right away for further treatment options.

Q: What happens if I suddenly stop taking this medication?

A: A relapse in symptoms may occur depending on the severity of the condition, and you may experience side effects. You should speak your doctor before you stop taking this medication.

Q: What is the best dosage to take for Pristiq ER?

A: You doctor will be able to determine the best Pristiq ER dosage from the initial diagnosis. In some cases you will be given a low dose and be instructed to gradually increase the dose to prevent side effects. Your doctor will be able to instruct you how to increase your dose safely. 

Q: How long does it take for this medication to become active?

A: It can take a few weeks before the medication takes effect. Do not stop taking medication during this time.

Q: What happens if I miss a dose?

A: You should take the missed dose as soon you realize you have forgotten. If the forgotten dose is closer to your next scheduled dose, take the next schedule dose to avoid overlapping.

Q: What is the best way to store this medication?

A: This medication is stored at room temperature, and should be kept away from children and pets. 

Q: How do I dispose of this medication?

A: Do not throw away this medication in wastewater. Some medication can be thrown away in dry waste, and some require a little preparation for disposal. If you are uncertain how to dispose of this medication speak with your pharmacist to safely dispose any unwanted or experienced medication.

Q: Is this medication safe to use while pregnant or breastfeeding?

A: Speak with your doctor about the risk associated with using this drug while pregnant. It is uncertain if this drug can pass into the breast milk of nursing mother. Consult your doctor to understand the risk in using this medication while breastfeeding.