I've been on Pristiq for about three weeks. I am on 50mg. and so far have experienced dizziness. Will that go away in time? I have yet to see it affect my depression and anxiety. I am on Zydis or Zyprexa for anxiety which works pretty well. Betsy
How long will it take to get the maximum effect from Pristiq?
Question posted by cavnar on 18 Sep 2011
Last updated on 2 October 2021
5 Answers
SeanAdam0129
11 Dec 2017
I started taking Pristiq 6 days ago... after coming off of Ciparmil (after 9 years)... I didn't expect to feel 'better' in my mood for at least 2 weeks or more, as I am a Mental Health Nurse, and know how long these medications take to work. On the 5th day of taking the Pristiq, I woke up, felt 'better'... started doing things around the house that I'd been 'putting off' for ages... I couldn't quite understand how I could feel so 'different' in such a short space of time... it certainly wasn't a placebo effect, as I truly wasn't expecting it... but all I can say is that 'something' has changed in my brain, and I almost feel 'normal'.
Feelhealthyagain
26 Feb 2018
Are you taking the name brand or the generic (deslafaxine)?
rxguy2013
2 Sep 2013
It started working for me that 1st week. After a month, I went from 50mg to 100mg. Within 2 days, I knew it was working and I no longer even carry my xanax bottle with me.
If it is not working for you, talk to your doctor. I had to switch doctors to get one that was not burned out and going through the motions..
mookiewook
18 Dec 2011
I've been on it for 34 days for anxiety and depression, and also take Xanax (1.5 a day). I am still dizzy, especially when going from sitting to standing and feel uneasy. I don't know if I should stay on this or try something else. Are you still on Pristiq and has the dizziness gone away? Thanks.
pisces1981
17 Sep 2012
i too get really dizzy. My doctor increased my Xanax. I now take 1mg in the am and 1mg in the afternoon and then 2mg at night. He prescribed me the 2mg pills that break apart. So far its gotten a little better. I do get nauseous and blurred vision from the prsitq. I hope the side effects go away soon. Hang in there buddy
Seyster
2 Oct 2021
Did you stay on the Pristiq? I know you posted ten years ago, but I am two weeks in with blurred vision, and increased anxiety. Thanks so much.
primetimegrape
18 Sep 2011
On average it can take about 3-4 weeks. Dizziness is a common side effect that should go away with time. This medicine is known as an SNRI (Selective Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibtors). It's most common use is for depression. If your dose is not working for u by now, give it another week, and if u do not notice any improvement, then talk to your doctor about maybe getting a higher dose or switched onto something else. There are tons of anti-depressant meds out there, and each works differently for different people. Some people prefer Paxil and Prozac, where others prefer Pristiq and Zoloft (Zoloft combats both depression and anxiety). Many times u have to try these meds to find out which one will work 4 u. All have side effects, and not all are pleasant. I am not big on anti-depressants, I cannot recommend one over the other in terms of what works better. It is really based on a case by case basis and trial and testing.
That said, I think anti-depressants are over-prescribed in general, but Prozac is prob. one of the most popular and better tolerated drugs if I were to put one out there, but again, this varies. I wish u the best of luck. Talk to your doctor if u do not notice any change in the next week.
cavnar
18 Sep 2011
Thanks for all the helpful suggestions. I will give Pristiq a longer trial. Betsy
Less Than Human
19 Sep 2011
It's always a good bet to give a medicine 6 weeks, unless some severe side effects occur, before you write it off as unworkable!
LaurieShay
18 Sep 2011
Hey Betsy,
It can take upwards of a month for the Pristiq to reach maximum effectiveness. Dizziness is a common side effect which should subside. I take Pristiq and have found it to work very well, but what works for one doesn't always for another. If you haven't noticed a change in the next couple weeks, please notify the doctor.
Best wishes,
Laurie
cavnar
18 Sep 2011
Thanks Laurie for your help. I hope it clicks in soon. Betsy
Related topics
pristiq, depression, post traumatic stress disorder, anxiety, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder
Further information
- Pristiq uses and safety info
- Pristiq prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side effects of Pristiq (detailed)
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