Pristiq User Reviews & Ratings (Page 2)

• She...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• January 5, 2021

For Major Depressive Disorder "Pristiq literally saved my life!! Diagnosed with major depression (although more so undiagnosed bipolar II), I started on a controversial 300mg daily nearly 14 years ago now. I’ve reduced to 200mg daily and will stay on it for life absolutely no side effects whatsoever. I am happy, social, productive, and successful and at complete peace within myself. I spent almost 10 years on the medication roller coaster before an amazing GP took a special interest in my case whilst co-authoring the book “Brain Fuel Depletion”. I was so lucky to be under his care, I owe him my life! Pristiq may not be for everyone but may my story inspire you to persevere and keep on trialling different meds until you find your right fit... I promise you, it’s worth it."

• omb...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• April 9, 2021

For Depression "I have been taking Pristiq for more than a year now for anxiety and depression. The first month wasn't great, my anxiety increased, had trouble falling asleep, feeling nauseous. After that, these were the side effects that stuck: sweats, it takes more time to orgasm, brain zap when I forget a dose. I definitely feel better, I have a better feeling of control over my life. I don't have suicidal thoughts anymore. It gave me hope that change is possible, and we don't have to accept feeling that way for our whole life."

• TMc...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• January 10, 2020

For Depression "I tried many meds over the years that would only work for a short time. Started Pristiq one year ago. I've stayed on 25mg, which is normally a step-in dose. It works great for me. I was very tired the first three days, but since that time, I haven't had any side effects at all. This med has given me my life back!"

• Kwh...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 26, 2025

For Major Depressive Disorder "I’ve suffered for so long, I was abused 15 years out of my 26 on this earth. They put me on Prozac as a child, and it just made me so sick and made me so much worse mentally. I never felt like I could produce the right chemicals in my brain to make me function normally or to even be happy without being manic. This helped me SO much. I was so afraid to take it initially, but seeing the positive reviews helped me take the first step. I’m only on 25 mg and still in the first week, and I had pretty severe side effects the first and second day, but by day 3 I had so much more energy and focus, and I overall feel so much more serene. I have never known peace like this in my entire life. I have organized and cleaned my house in ways I’ve been putting off for almost 3 years. I could kiss whoever invented this on the mouth, God bless this medication."

• Jew...
• July 24, 2014

For Major Depressive Disorder "I have fought depression for a long time, and this is the first time in years that something has worked. I lost everything, but now I can rebuild my life. Pristiq has been a miracle. I have taken many medicines, and I was 100% sure nothing would work. Now, with God's help, I have a new life. I felt nothing for the first few weeks, but after a month, I'm alive. Thank you for developing this miracle. All the best. PLEASE BELIEVE ME, BEFORE THIS, I WAS SURE NOTHING WOULD WORK, AND I WAS SUICIDAL. A FEW WEEKS AGO, I WOULD HAVE SAID LIVING IS THE WORST THING POSSIBLE, BUT NOW IT WORKS, MY BRAIN DOES NOT WANT TO SLEEP ALL WEEK AND LOSE EVERYTHING AND BE HOMELESS. PLEASE DON'T GIVE UP. YOU ARE HERE FOR A PURPOSE."

• NYC...
• November 17, 2008

For Depression "This drug is amazing. Before taking it, I would eat non-stop and obsess about food because of my depression. Now, I only eat when it's mealtime and don't even think about it any other time. I sleep great, have more energy, and the only side effects were mild nausea the first couple of days. The depression is gone, and I feel so much better. I'm taking 50 mg once per day."

• Anonymous
• August 19, 2014

For Depression "I want to share my experience because I was terrified when I first started Pristiq. It was the first time I'd taken an antidepressant following a severe depressive episode. I read so many negative things about Pristiq and people over-analyzing it. It took 6 weeks to work and yes, I had dry mouth, headaches, and nausea, but they passed after a few days. The anxiety went away gradually, and I felt like I could control it again. The depression lifted too, and I could function. I went cold turkey to come off it (Dr. supervised) and yep, side effects but no big deal. The brain zaps were full-on, but they lasted about 4 days. I feel great. Of course, I'm doing lots of exercise and eating well too... but Pristiq helped."

• dbu...
• December 11, 2014

For Depression "Pristiq for me is a lifesaver! The first 2 days I took the medication, I was tired, but now being on it for two weeks, it is amazing. I used to cry at the drop of a hat, and I had severe anxiety. Pristiq is the only medication that has ever worked for me! Try it! It might save your life too!"

• Roo...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• August 17, 2014

For Depression "This medicine has been very helpful to me. I started having extreme anxiety when I started taking Latuda. For two years I dealt with depression, severe anxiety, and killer side effects from the SSRI (avoid them). In 2014 I finally said 'ENOUGH!' I was a little scared to try a different medicine, but life was so terrible I was willing to get some relief. I did not have any side effects when started taking the medicine. Pristiq has given some of my life back. I can function at the day program (which was in jeopardy before Pristiq). I highly recommend this medicine for those who suffer from depression and anxiety, at least give it a try."

• Jes...
• January 13, 2017

For Depression "I just want to share my experience with Pristiq. I had suffered from depression since I was 15 and tried many antidepressants that made me hallucinate, gain weight, and sleep all day. The day my doctor changed my medicine to Pristiq, my life changed forever. I can safely say that my depression is completely gone. It also diminished my anxiety by 90%. I have absolutely no side effects: no weight gain, tiredness, or dizziness. On the contrary, it gives me energy, and I feel happy and calm all the time. I am more social, I laugh, and live life like I used to. Pristiq saved my life, and I know that for some people it may not be the best, but if you are looking for a new antidepressant, you should definitely try Pristiq."

• kt1...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 27, 2014

For Depression "I was diagnosed with anxiety and major depression just over a year ago. I am a 19-year-old female and have a very difficult family situation. I first tried Cipralex, which made me really irritable, then I tried Wellbutrin, which gave me a rash. I was then on Cymbalta for 6 months, but I had many side effects and was exhausted. Within the first week on Pristiq, I began to notice a huge difference, much more energy. A month later I almost feel like my old self, lots of energy, I can control my own thoughts, and I can concentrate, which is amazing because I'm in university. I'm so glad I finally found something that works for me, and I'm looking forward to more improvements over time."

• Eli...
• October 23, 2014

For Depression "This medicine saved my sanity. I had crippling anxiety/panic attack disorder that forced me to take a year and a half off of college. I was a complete and total wreck. After a year and a half of rest/therapy, I decided I was ready to go back to school, within 3 weeks I was totally crumbling, and was completely overwhelmed (anxiety disorder I had worked so hard to treat was rearing its ugly head). I was scared to try another med because my old one made me gain 55 lbs (despite dieting), but at this point I was so desperate. My psychiatrist gave me Pristiq and BAM, a week later I was like a different person. No more constant crying and confusion. Now 10 months later I am doing really well in school and have lost 40 lbs."

• hop...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• November 6, 2024

For Major Depressive Disorder "It was 11 years ago when I suffered a major depressive episode I could not wait out. I had done it before, but this time, it was suffocating, I wanted nothing else but for it to be over. Psychological pain is absolutely awful - worse than any physical pain I have ever felt. So, I broke down and started trying medications. It was awful, I had a great career, I didn't have time for this. I tried three different medications - none worked - until Pristiq made me feel whole again. I would have never believed it if you told me. Trust me, it gets better... one day, this awful feeling will be a distant memory. Keep the hope... all my love."

• Gra...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• November 25, 2019

For Depression "After 20+ years on SSRIs, I have a new lease on life with only 25mg of Pristiq. I’m alert, in a positive mood, and have lots of energy. This has lasted for 6+ months. This drug is so much better for me than any of the SSRIs (I tried probably all of them). The only reason I give 9 stars is because of low appetite and constipation side effects."

• Kan...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 18, 2025

For Depression "So far, so good. Stopped my Zoloft and started Pristiq 9 days ago. I feel less anxious, have more energy, and my mood is MUCH more positive (for the most part). My mood does seem to crash pretty quickly if I drink any alcohol."

• Dav...
• November 9, 2013

For Depression "I started Pristiq 2 years ago and have been on risperidone for about 20 years. These two drugs have kept me feeling quite fuzzy and warm. There is not much that I can't tackle in a day. I am like Teflon when it comes to negativity. 100 mg a day. No worries. I have lost about 30 lbs and have quit smoking after 20 years. Pristiq has been my wonder drug. I don't plan on stopping this medication anytime soon."

• Myl...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 19, 2021

For Depression "I have never wanted to take any SSRI or SNRI, but I became very depressed and was desperate, so I listened to my doctor who told me to try Pristiq and give it 4 weeks. I suffered almost every side effect: yawning, insomnia, increased anxiety, tinnitus, sweating, incapable of having an orgasm, vivid nightmares. I took Pristiq 50mg for 4 weeks and I only had 1 day that I was not depressed. I quit taking it after 4 weeks of sleepless nights and a very loud high-pitched ringing in my head. 2 weeks of feeling dizzy and extreme headaches, then 2 months of bad headaches and extreme anxiety. Now, 4 months off Pristiq, I have very high anxiety, headaches, and the worst is tinnitus. Pristiq ruined my life. After researching, I realize that this tinnitus is probably not going away, since it has been 4 months, and I am devastated. The ringing is intruding my brain every second, and my anxiety has grown uncontrollable alongside the tinnitus. I wish I never took Pristiq."

• fkg...
• December 29, 2014

For Depression "My wife unexpectedly told me she wanted a divorce, and I was devastated. We have two small boys. I instantly saw a psychiatrist who prescribed me 50 mg of Pristiq. It seemed to help somewhat, but I would still break down into hysterical crying fits. After 15 days, she put me on 100 mg, and I've been fine ever since. I feel like I can deal with this now. I have not had any negative side effects, except shaking my leg. I do have insomnia, but I had that from the anxiety of the divorce, and I'm prescribed something to help me sleep. I can't say for sure if the Pristiq causes the insomnia, but I do feel a little amped. Overall, it's better than I thought as I generally don't feel like I'm on something and feel like myself."

• Lau...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• October 5, 2023

For Major Depressive Disorder "This medication saved my life. I started with Lexapro and was in a sad fog, then moved to Zoloft which was sort of helping at first but didn't do much. Pristiq truly saved my life. It's a struggle feeling like you have to date and go through bad relationships with other kinds to find your perfect match, but you might find your brain medication soulmate someday. Keep going. Keep trying. Because I promise, I promise, I promise it is worth it when you finally find the one that's right for you and you feel human and whole again."

• Tha...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• April 10, 2020

For Major Depressive Disorder "I have been on many other medications, such as Abilify, Lamictal, and Lexapro, but this was the one that finally helped me fully be better. It does have side effects, yes, and missing doses aren't fun, but I'd say it has easily changed my life for the better. If I was at 30% before Pristiq, then I am definitely at 90% right now."

• Anx...
• April 10, 2015

For Depression "I have nothing but amazing things to say about Pristiq. I went through a 5-year toxic relationship, lost everything including myself, tried to rebuild my life after leaving him but could not stop feeling 'heavy'. Felt numb. Had anxiety, could not sleep and pretty much felt like I was living in the dark. Went to see doc, started with 50 - no side effects so after 2 weeks he upped to 100mg and after three weeks I started to feel better and after a month I was truly amazed. It's been just over three months and I feel better than ever. I can't believe I suffered for so long. Sometimes, despite our best efforts, it just isn't enough! Best thing I ever did for myself. Thank god for health benefits! It's expensive!"

• Fin...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• July 26, 2017

For Depression "I have been on 100mg of Pristiq for three years for depression and anxiety. Without question, it has changed my life incredibly. I waited 47 years to have the courage to take an antidepressant and wish with all my heart I had met this medication in my 20s. I started on 50mg but after two months reluctantly headed up to 100... my reservations were for nothing... this medication has worked beautifully for me. I did have side effects in the first few weeks: beating heart, very thirsty, and slight headaches, but they passed quickly, and I have been amazed by its strength ever since. I have had some serious life crises to deal with in the past three years, and often feared the medication would not be able to 'hold' me... it always has. I have an amazing therapist who I saw for the first two years, but no longer need that support, the medication is enough. I used to have so many concerns about taking any such medications - was frequently turned away from them by what I'd read as horror stories online... I wanted to let you know... it's not for all of us... some of us do have great reviews... maybe not enough of us drop back to pass them on because we got busy with our new lives where wellness is the new normal. I never worry about coming off them, I don't care if I have to take them forever... as long as I feel this good, I'm not ending my relationship with them..."

• doo...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 19, 2019

For Depression "Was put on Pristiq 50mg about 6 months ago for depression, bad sleep anxiety, which was caused by OCD and ruminating thoughts about not sleeping, which was the root cause of my depression. This constant rumination was horrible, and I was convinced that it was unfixable, and that my life would be ruined by it. It was a horrible and hopeless feeling. After being on the 50mg for a month, I noticed improvement, and then I got put on the 100mg dose, and have had continuous improvement since being on the 100mg, and am now almost 100% better. Depression will tell you that there is no hope, it's awful. I remember thinking 'there is no way this medication will work,' but you must stay patient and you will be amazed how the depression goes away and the nasty thoughts just go away."

• Jen...
• December 22, 2019

For Major Depressive Disorder "I had been on numerous meds that weren't helping. Horrible anxiety and depression. Extremely irritable. I decided to try Pristiq anyway, and within an hour, this sense of calm rushed over me. I felt so at peace. I'm more alert. I don't need constant naps. I'm positive, and life is great. At first, though, insomnia sucked, but every night it improved and didn't last long. I'm sleeping great now. It's been a few weeks, and I'm still struggling with constipation. I had headaches at first too, but not anymore. It has destroyed my appetite, though. I can miss my dose by hours and not experience the 'brain zaps' or feel any different at all, unlike others. I feel absolutely amazing, and it has by far boosted my marriage more than I could ever imagine. I can even see the spirits of my kids lifted immensely. I don't obsess over things like before, and I'm more relaxed. I've had no sexual side effects, I can still orgasm, and I've actually been more in the mood because I feel better."

• Hap...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 19, 2024

For Depression "This medicine has helped my joint pain, lessened my PTSD triggers, reduced anxiety, given me energy and mental clarity. Most critically, I no longer feel depressed. Pristiq was identified as one of the better antidepressants for my body in terms of metabolization with the least likely to cause side effects (identified through genetic testing). Also worth noting, a genetic mutation was identified. I am now taking a supplement to assist with the folic acid conversion process."