Pristiq and Dizziness: What Users Say (Page 2)

• Bgr...
• October 9, 2015

For Depression "I was being prescribed different anxiety/depression drugs when Effexor stopped working. It was hell for months. Then I had the genetic blood test and found that there were only a few drugs that could work with my body. I was prescribed Pristiq 3 years ago, and so far it has worked. Initially, the side effects are strong, but they lessen as time goes on. Currently, I may have dizziness and flushing, but the good effects of this drug greatly outweigh the bad. I am taking 150 mg (1) 50 mg and (1) 100 mg and found out it is $60 less per prescription if I take (3) 50 mg pills instead. This is not an inexpensive drug, but it works for me."

• Kel...
• February 10, 2018

For Depression "I just wanted to share as when I started Pristiq, I googled so much about how long it would take to work. I was actually prescribed it for anxiety and panic. I had awful side effects full on for the first week: dizzy, drowsy. I felt really isolated as I felt so out of it and pretty much took the week off work and stayed in bed all day and night. I am going into my 8th week, and it is only now that I can honestly say I am feeling close to being the old me. I have also started seeing a psychologist. If anyone out there is struggling, I would give it at least this time. It is so hard, but to persevere will be worth it hopefully."

• Anonymous
• July 23, 2009

For Depression "I normally don't write these things, but Pristiq is fantastic. I have tried so many medications, and none of them seemed to work. They all had bad side effects except this one. I know it's a bit early, but I've been on it for three days, and I can already see a difference. It has minor side effects in the beginning, like a wee bit of nausea/dizziness and restlessness, but it's so worth it! I feel so happy all the time, it's great, and I also feel more focused and energetic. I used to stress about everything and feel miserable. Trust me, anyone who suffers from depression, anxiety, and stress, you need to at least try this before you try anything. It makes you feel less hungry, so you are likely to focus on food, which is a bonus."

• Car...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 25, 2018

For Depression "I am a 44-year-old woman who was recently diagnosed with Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD). After lots of unusual stress, I had a massive panic attack and subsequently began having 5-7 panic attacks a day and would wake up in terror every hour at night. At first, my doctor put me on Riva Venlafaxine and to get my sleeping under control Pro Zoplicone (2 weeks). Mentally, I felt like myself again 100%, but I developed giant hives all over and had severe itchy palms/feet. She switched me to Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine) and the allergic reaction went away. I am normal again! I have a few mild side effects (dizzy, a bit tired, etc.), but to feel normal is worth it. I tried a few beers once in a while, but panic attacks seem to creep up in the days after. So I've stopped drinking alcohol. I'm still amazed at how horrible panic attacks and GAD are!"

• Vic...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• March 4, 2020

For Major Depressive Disorder "I have been taking this medication for a few years now. I am lowering my dosage, and I am scared to get off of it. It has helped me so much in my workplace, dealing with emotions and daily chores. I do not want to be stuck on medication forever, but I know this works for me. I rarely take any other medication, such as Dayquil or pain meds. I do not drink or do drugs. I do have a hard time when I miss my medication. I take it every morning, so if I miss a morning, I don't take one till the next day. If I miss more than a day, I do have side effects such as dizziness, emotional issues, and eating disorders. I was never a person to do something daily, but I was desperate to get better. I have reached a level of steadiness with my medication, and I am learning new coping skills to wing off of my medication. I suggest you try it."

• Chi...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• January 17, 2022

For Depression "I have an extreme panic attack disorder and was on Paxil for about a year and a half, which worked wonders. The only downside was I gained a ton of weight, so I went off it for about a year. Anxiety came back, so I was forced to go back on meds but wanted to try something different since the weight was an issue for me. Started Pristiq (50 mg) about 6 days ago, and today I’m feeling great! Less anxious, but still waiting for the depression to subside. The first few days on it weren’t bad: dizziness, loss of appetite, just kind of out of it. Side effects are starting to get better every day. My sleep is so much better as well, improved only 2 days after taking it. This is definitely a fast-acting anxiety medication compared to many others on the market. Starting 100 mg in about another week."

• Jog...
• July 7, 2013

For Depression "I started on 50 mg and went up to 100 mg. It has been wonderful for stabilizing my moods. I lost my insurance and went off. It was horrible. I was in horrible shape and had to go back on it at full price. I now feel like I am stuck on it. I experience dizziness at times, gained 40 pounds in the 2 years I've been on it."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• September 25, 2012

For Depression "I am 26, female, and have been on Pristiq for a little over 18 months. It worked fantastically for the first year, my anxiety and depression were under control for the first time ever. For the last few months, though, I have noticed a lot more side effects. I have gained weight, and although my sex drive hasn't dropped, I find it very hard to reach orgasm. Also, if I miss one day, I have really bad withdrawals: migraine headaches, nausea, dizzy spells, and out-of-control emotions. I think Pristiq is great for short-term use, but I'm not convinced it's good as a long-term option."

• Can...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• July 8, 2019

For Depression "I've been on and off antidepressants for 6 years for depression, anxiety, and chronic pain. I've been on Pristiq 50 mg for around 8 months now. I am extremely sensitive to these medications and develop a lot of side effects. However, this drug hasn't made me a zombie like others (Cymbalta is the worst). Had nausea at the beginning, but passed quickly. I get bruises all over my legs and some on my arms. I look like a Dalmatian. I still get 'brain zaps' and dizziness, even if I miss my dose by 2 hours. It's horrid. I'm trying to wean off all mood medications. Apprehensive because of how I feel after only a day. Scored it a 4 because it didn't zombify me. To those thinking of going down the med route, please try other things. Use it as a last resort."

• Mis...
• June 3, 2015

For Depression "I am currently 21 years old, but started taking Pristiq a few years ago. I had previously tried Prozac, then Effexor, but I couldn't see much of a difference. Once I started taking Pristiq 50 mg, I felt the results within the same week. It was great. However, whenever I missed a day, I would feel the adverse side effects almost immediately. Brain zaps, depersonalization, dizziness, foggy thoughts, nausea, sweating, crying spells, headaches... I eventually got off of it (I honestly don't know how), but it was a very difficult 2-week process. Two years later, I am back on Wellbutrin (after a bad experience with Lexapro). Pristiq was definitely effective but extremely addictive. Not something I'd recommend without reservation."

• sha...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• March 17, 2018

For Depression "I took this drug for about six months. Headaches, weight gain, nausea, dizziness and head spins, sleepless nights, and my libido went out the window, and I haven't found it since. When I finally went off the drug, the withdrawal was so bad that I wanted the world to know this drug should not be on the market. It is horrible and it messes you up. Yes, it did help with the depression a bit, but no better than some of the other ones out there. Worst drug I have ever been on, including my RA drugs."

• Jlo...
• Taken for 10 years or more
• April 25, 2019

For Depression "I have not had any side effects. No constipation, dry mouth, or vivid dreams like I had with Wellbutrin time-released. The generic Pristiq does not work for me, the coating is different too. I was recently put on a higher dose, so I take brand name Pristiq 50 mg and a 25 mg because they don’t make a name brand 75 mg, only generic, which doesn’t work for me either. If I skip a dose of my medication, I’m okay, but after the second skipped dose, I become nauseous, dizzy, and shaky. That’s why I keep an extra dose in my purse so I’ll never miss a dose going forward."

• Mom...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• February 15, 2019

For Major Depressive Disorder "I have major depression and horrible anxiety since childhood. I have been on Pristiq for 3 years. I tried many, many antidepressants, and they either didn't work, or the side effects were so awful I had to discontinue before it worked. I'm sensitive to medication, but had no problems with Pristiq. I never have had the foggy/zombie feeling like other antidepressants can cause. It worked really well for about 2 1/2 years (really stopped working when I was switched to generic). Now I am slowly tapering off onto a new med. Just be careful coming off Pristiq. I went 5 days without it (issues with insurance and the doctor's office), and it was a living nightmare! Full-blown panic attacks, dizziness, severe nausea, brain zaps, and out of touch with reality. Overall, I would recommend Pristiq. Everyone's body is different, but it worked wonders for me!"

• Sar...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• January 28, 2017

For Depression "My PCP prescribed Pristiq for my depression, anxiety, mood issues, etc. He told me that the drug takes a few weeks before you could see a difference, but I feel like I experienced everything the first day I took the drug. Although my mood and energy improved and I felt better overall, the side effects were so severe I decided to discontinue after the first day. My side effects started with heart palpitations, sweating, dizziness, and a faint feeling. This later subsided but turned into nausea and loss of appetite, I couldn't eat anything that day, and even water made me gag. That night I slept for a total of 3 hours. I couldn't stay asleep, and the time I did fall asleep, it felt like I wasn't asleep at all. My body felt numb, and my heart was racing."

• Jak...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• February 13, 2021

For Depression "I've been trying out different meds the past 6 months or so for depression/OCD/anxiety. Overall, it hasn't been a bad experience. Tried Anafranil, Luvox, and now Pristiq. The first 2 meds didn't really do a whole bunch for me. Based on my recent gene test, my pdoc and I decided on Pristiq for the OCD. I was only on it 4 days before I knew something was really wrong. I have been off it 2 days now, and I still am having horrible nightmares where it feels like I'm being suffocated. And I keep getting these random bursts of dizziness. It's like you know instinctively that you are not 'right'. It's a horrible feeling. I can't wait for this drug to get out of my system, and this will probably be the last SNRI I will take as long as I am alive after trying 1 or 2 others in the past. I know everyone is different, but for me, this is one of those drugs that make you rethink even bothering with psych drugs in the first place."

• Goo...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• December 5, 2012

For Depression "I am a 48-year-old woman diagnosed with depression and chronic fatigue. Took Pristiq for 4 months. My entire system was taxed! I became very angry, argumentative, overreacting to mostly everything, communicating ineffectively, raging. I never relaxed - insomnia! Major increase in pain, muscle spasm, migraines, involuntary muscle movement, etc.! Getting off of it was a nightmare! More than a week of constant 24-hour sickening withdrawal - vomiting, dizziness, confusion, severe pain, muscle spasm, migraines, depression, thoughts that I would never make it through! The only thing that helped was Prozac 20 mg, Vicodin 5-300, and Tramadol 50 mg as needed to break the pain cycle!"

• ltv...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• February 28, 2016

For Depression "I began taking Pristiq in 2008 as a supplement to Wellbutrin. When I missed a dose, I became very ill with flu-like symptoms so severe, I felt it was not safe for me to drive a car. This made me feel as though this drug was not good for me, so I finally took myself off of it in 2015. It took the entire month of July (I stopped Pristiq July 1st and nausea and dizziness did not end until early August - I kept track of my symptoms on a calendar), and as of today, the end of February 2016, my digestion has still not returned to normal. Pristiq was developed by the manufacturer to replace the profits from another popular drug that reached the generic zone. I consider it a 'bad drug.'"

• Bri...
• April 5, 2021

For Major Depressive Disorder "I have Bipolar Disorder I and severe depression, along with anxiety. I was on Prozac for many months, and it didn't help at all. I was so tired of feeling this way, and I said enough! I've been on several different antidepressants (Latuda, Seroquel, Geodon, Abilify, and Prozac), and now my doctor just switched me over to Pristiq. He put me on 25 mg while weaning me off of the Prozac. At first, Pristiq made me mentally foggy and dizzy. I've actually been reading good reviews for this medication and decided to give it a try. I know that it takes some time for meds to get used to your body, so you have to give it some time. As of right now, I'm not feeling suicidal, and I'm not crying at the drop of a hat anymore, which is awesome to me. I will be patient with this medication to see what else happens and if I notice any more improvements. I have a good feeling about this medication. So, if you're debating on whether or not you should take it, just take a risk and see what happens."

• Her...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• November 19, 2021

For Major Depressive Disorder "I literally took this medication for 1 day at 25 mg. I've been on so many meds, had ECT treatments, the whole 9 yards. It started with nausea and dizziness within an hour. By hour 2, my joints hurt so bad and I was extremely fatigued. I dissociated badly throughout most of the day at work, I had to be snapped out of it. That night after work, my muscles and joints hurt so bad and I was still dissociating so badly. I felt so, so bad, and that came with a whole new set of emotions. I emailed my psychiatrist. She called me the next day, literally 10 minutes after my daily dose (in which I cried and cried because I had to take this pill again) and told me to stop taking it immediately. That my body was metabolizing it too fast, and I should not be having these kinds of side effects at all. So, now we're on to Trintellix. And if that doesn't do the trick, some nasal spray treatment. So defeating."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 7, 2021

For Depression "I have been on desvenlafaxine 25 mg for exactly 6 weeks for panic attacks, social/general anxiety, and depression. I had been using lorazepam 0.25 mg as needed for anxiety for several months before having a mental breakdown and deciding it was time to manage this daily anxiety instead of the up-and-down rollercoaster I was on with the lorazepam. I developed agoraphobia and could barely make myself get out of bed the first week. I was scared to be alone and, at age 46, found myself asking my mom to stay with me while my husband was at work. This went on for weeks. I did notice my depression improved after 2-3 weeks. I was disappointed that it had not improved my anxiety as much as I thought it should, but then that switch finally flipped for me on day 56. Side effects: headache, loss of appetite, tinnitus, fatigue, dizziness. Just tinnitus has stuck. Small price to pay for getting my life back. It’s no joke that it takes 6-8 weeks for relief. Take the pill. Every day. Feel better."

• Swe...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• July 26, 2012

For Depression "I'm 29, female, was on Celexa before. On 50 mg of medicine for the past 2 weeks. Killed my sex drive, stone cold-just gone! Palpitations like crazy. Extreme nausea and dizziness. Sweating through my clothes...underarms, chest, back, groin, everywhere! My whole body is very tense, and my TMJ is flaring like crazy. Feel like a sweaty zombie with palpitations and zero sex drive. Trying to stick with it."

• Dhr...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• March 27, 2016

For Depression "What they didn't tell me is how dependent you get on it. It started off I could miss a few days and not feel anything. Then I would feel it if I missed one or two days, but I would just be a little more down. Now, if I miss a day I can't function, and if I miss two it gets really scary. It's only happened once or twice while I've been on it, but by the second or third day missed I am not myself. I'm anxious, my jaw hurts, I can't sleep, crying fits are common, vomiting and headaches are constant. During this time there are stages that are worse than others, but 'brain zaps' and dizziness are common. I've also seen and heard things, and overall it feels like you are high and is the most awful thing I've ever experienced. It's made the med not worth it."

• Rob...
• January 25, 2020

For Major Depressive Disorder "First off, I hope most or all is somewhat well with everybody in here! Let's make this very short and to the point... I have been on Pristiq and the last few years the generic form of it for a total of around 7-8 years... I have been seeing countless doctors, of course, including my psych doctor, for these all of the sudden recent symptoms - 24/7 nausea, 24/7 dizziness, sore throat with a lump in it at times, just feelings of not being present in my own body, constantly thinking that I am going to pass away. It is so bad that I cannot play or spend quality time with my only grandson!!! Constant crying and doom. Had an endoscopy and a heart cath which turned out fine. Heavy blood work which is good... Doctors think possible tooth infection from rotted teeth, GI problem, or sleep apnea. Oh, and another huge symptom is really never being able to sleep! Could this medication be catching up to me???? And any thoughts for care on sore throat - all these for the past 4 months."

• aus...
• June 23, 2010

For Depression "I suffer from episodic depression and anxiety attacks. Pristiq is the only medication for depression that I've tried that has virtually no side effects either getting on or getting off. When I begin taking it (I'm on my 2nd round with this medicine since it came out). I almost immediately (in 2 to 3 days) start feeling better, or at least 'normal.' It certainly doesn't make me feel happy or like dancing, but it does erase feelings that I wished I'd never been born. Which is wonderful! I do have occasional night sweating, especially if I take any other medication with the Pristiq, even something like Advil. Getting off the Pristiq last time was uneventful. Only some slight dizziness upon moving my head for about a week."

• Car...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• March 20, 2021

For Depression "I am leaving this comment to increase awareness of the difficult withdrawal one can experience when trying to get off Pristiq. I have been trying to get off this drug for the past few months. The first step was reducing my dose from 100 mg to 50 mg, which I managed to do without too much difficulty. After achieving this, I started to skip one pill each week, then two, etc. This process was the most difficult. Skipping one pill was okay. But skipping two has led to a range of unpleasant symptoms, including brain zaps, paresthesia, hyperarousal, insomnia, headaches, dizziness, flu-like symptoms, auras, crying outbursts, and detachment. This really gets in the way of life. Yeah, I wouldn't have started on this drug if I had known about the horrible withdrawal process. I really, really wish the doctors would inform their patients of this."