What is Pristiq?
Belonging to a group of selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, Pristiq affects the brain chemicals balancing their work. Also known as Desvenlafaxine, the antidepressant is prescribed for patients with major depressive disorders. Additionally, the medication can be recommended for other cases not mentioned in the safety guide.
Recommendations for Use
Before the intake of this powerful antidepressant, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider and get instructions concerning Pristiq administration. Follow these tips and safety directions on the prescription label to turn the treatment course into a safe and effective experience, as well as to eliminate the risks of possible side effects. Do not use Pristiq in bigger or smaller doses than recommended or for longer. The pills may be taken either without or with food, but at the same time every day. Never chew, crush or break the tablet, otherwise, you may experience a range of adverse reactions. Keep track of all the points mentioned by your healthcare provider. Continue using the medication for several weeks, since the symptoms may not disappear after a few days. Constantly check your blood pressure to avoid related complications. Never stop administering Desvenlafaxine abruptly, as it may activate severe withdrawal symptoms.
Once you have missed Pristiq dose, skip it in case the next one should be taken soon. Do not increase or double the dose. Avoid alcohol intake during the treatment course, as their combinations may lead to serious side effects. Remember that Desvenlafaxine may change your reaction and thinking processes, so be careful fulfilling any tasks that require alertness.
Precautions and Contraindications
Seeing a doctor, tell him/her about all the health complications you have and other conditions you suffer from. Pristiq is not recommended for patients allergic to active component of Desvenlafaxine, or other ingredients of the medication, as well as similar drugs. Never use this antidepressant in case you have taken any MAO inhibitor within the last 14 days. Inform your medical specialist about the following complications (if any) to make sure Pristiq will not harm your health:
• serious heart, kidney or liver diseases;
• uncontrolled high blood pressure;
• history of heart attack or stroke;
• high cholesterol level;
• manic depressions;
• epilepsy;
• overactive thyroid, and others.
The medication can be dangerous for unborn and nursing children, so it is not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Besides, the medication should not be given to anyone under 18 years old.
Drug Interactions
Pristiq is an innovative medication that has a drastic impact on the organism, so it should be taken with exceptional cautiousness. Besides, the drug interacts with numerous other treatments and may cause diverse severe and even life-threatening side effects.
Before taking Desvenlafaxine, tell your doctor if you are using:
• narcotic pain medications;
• sleeping pills;
• other drugs for depression, anxiety of seizures;
• similar antidepressants;
• Tramadol;
• Sibutramine;
• Warfarin and several other medicines.
Side Effects
Wrong drug combinations as well as violating safety instructions may lead to serious health complications and symptoms aggravation. Call your doctor if you have noticed minor side effects that do not disappear for a long time. Seek emergency medical assistance in case of allergic reactions, seizures, breathing problems, chest tightness, agitation, fever, hallucinations and related complications.