Desvenlafaxine
Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) is a brand-name antidepressant medication classified as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It is primarily prescribed to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults by helping restore the balance of certain natural substances (serotonin and norepinephrine) in the brain.
Pristiq is an SNRI antidepressant used to treat major depressive disorder by affecting serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 711372
- Generic
- Pristiq
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Pristiq is FDA-approved for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults. It may also be used off-label for conditions such as anxiety disorders, panic disorder, and vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause.
As an SNRI, Pristiq works by inhibiting the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, increasing the availability of these neurotransmitters. This action is believed to help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression.
Pristiq is not recommended for use in children or adolescents due to potential increased risk of suicidal thoughts. Common side effects include nausea, dry mouth, and dizziness. Patients should not stop taking this medication abruptly and should discuss any discontinuation plans with their healthcare provider, as gradual tapering may be necessary to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy