Antidepressant medicationsare frequently prescribed to help manage the symptoms of anxietyand panic disorder.One such option is Pristiq.
What Is Pristiq?
Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) belongs to a class of antidepressants called serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).
Tom Varco / Wikimedia Commons
However, it also has a few off-label uses, of which anxiety and panic disorder are two.
However, research has found that desvenlafaxineknown by the brand name Pristiqprovides benefits as well.
For example, in a 12-week double-blind study, desvenlafaxine was found effective for easingsocial anxiety disorder.
While escitalopram was more effective for treating depressive symptoms, the drugs were equally able to reduce anxiety.
These chemical messengers are believed to be imbalanced for those with mental health conditions.
Antidepressants work to restabilize certain neurotransmitters.
If they persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.
Signs of an allergic reaction include hives, swelling of the face or tongue, and difficulty breathing.
If any of these occur, seek medical treatment immediately.
How Long Does It Take For Pristiq to Work?
You probably won’t notice an immediate improvement in your anxiety or panic disorder when taking Pristiq.
Mood-related effects generally take a bit longer, or up to eight weeks to improve fully.
The 25 mg tablets are generally used to reduce the drug slowly when discontinuing treatment.
Pristiq Overdose
Pristiq overdose is rare but can occur if this drug is taken in high amounts.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
Interactions
Pristiq can interact with certain medications, potentially increasing or decreasing the drug’s response.
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