Desvenlafaxine User Reviews & Ratings (Page 2)

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

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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."

• DDano
• October 28, 2018

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I was severely depressed for 8 months. Hospitalized for 3 weeks, suicidal. I tried Zoloft, which had worked in the past, but got no result the second time. Then at the hospital, they switched me to Cymbalta. I took the highest dose possible and got no relief. I then remembered I had good results with Pristiq in the past. So I asked my doctor to change the meds again. She wanted to add Abilify to my Cymbalta, but I asked to try Pristiq again. At first, it was hard, but after about 10 days, WOW! I finally am back to myself. I am so relieved; it was the longest and most awful 8 months of my life... I just wanted to die, and now I am back loving life, so so grateful, full of energy, exercising, cooking for myself, etc.!"

• Shell
• Taken for 10 years or more
• January 5, 2021

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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."

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

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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!"

• Anonymous
• August 19, 2014

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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."

• Fckpr...
• February 14, 2020

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I would not wish upon my worst enemy the hell I went through with this drug. My doctor at the time suggested this antidepressant to help maintain my growth & help my energy... this was the first year it existed and of course was expensive because there wasn’t a generic brand, it ruined my life. Everything in the small print happened to me. I slept on average 2 hours on my bathroom or kitchen floor because I felt suffocated in my bed. Everything irritated me physically. All I did was clean as if I was trying to get rid of something so toxic (pristiq) that my life depended on it (it did..) I lost a lot of my hair/eyebrows and I was going crazy, literally. Eventually I got off it, which was like detoxing from a hard drug, such as heroin or meth. I was on it for 6 months- I have been off it for many years, but I still struggle with the reality of what it took away from my life- so many years trying to pick up the pieces of the horrific reality I lived while on Pristiq."

• NYC...
• November 17, 2008

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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."

• dbugg
• December 11, 2014

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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!"

• Alex
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• January 6, 2024

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "This medication completely changed my life for the better. I had persistent depression for a decade. Now, it’s very rare that I have a depressed mood. I take 150 mg every day. I feel so much more awake and alert as well. If I accidentally forget to take it, I am way more tired during the day."

• Jewish...
• July 24, 2014

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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."

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

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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."

• Jessica...
• January 13, 2017

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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."

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

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "After 20+ years on SSRIs, I have a new lease on life with only 25mg pf 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 were 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."

• kt124
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 27, 2014

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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."

• Eliza...
• October 23, 2014

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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."

• Lauren
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• October 5, 2023

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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."

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

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Major Depressive Disorder "I have been on many other medications, such as Abilify and 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."

• Daveoh
• November 9, 2013

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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."

• fkgaj...
• December 29, 2014

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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."

• Jenn
• December 22, 2019

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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. Its 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 bc I feel better."

• Anxiety...
• April 10, 2015

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) 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!"

• MissA...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• January 20, 2015

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "On my first day of Pristiq, I noticed an immediate surge of energy (coupled with a racing heart and a feeling of disorientation). I am somewhat sensitive to medications generally, so I was prepared to experience some of the side effects. What I have experienced in my first week is tiredness, irritability/difficult sleeping, grinding teeth, nausea (vomited 5 times on night 1, which settled on the second day), loss of appetite, and general stiffness around my neck and back. I trust these symptoms will settle in the coming weeks but thought it may be valuable to share my first week, for those who are a little sensitive to medication. In regards to my mental state, I can safely say my mood has been moderately chilled, unfazed, and without any anxiety."

• JeffR
• October 29, 2014

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I've been on Pristiq for just over a month, and I don't have the desire to do anything. I have gone days without shaving or taking a bath. I feel like a zombie unable to make decisions or take care of myself and my home. I find myself sitting all day on my sofa, and sleeping most of the day. My appetite has increased and now my weight has gone up rapidly. After reading a recent post on this medication, I was shocked to learn that only one other person has had the same experience. I am quitting this medication today."

• Glad...
• January 1, 2015

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "Was totally down in the dumps for some reason, even though my life was great. Finally, I could take no more as my mind was giving me nasty thoughts to end things. Immediately went to the doctor, and he prescribed me 50 mg of Pristiq which sent my mind out of control. Now my whole being was in trouble, refusing to go to work and be around my family. Immediately went back to the doctor to be put on 100 mg, and I can say I have never looked back. Totally changed my life as I am myself again. Yeah, a few sexual side effects but I can live with that. I'm just glad to be back."

• OilPa...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• July 17, 2019

For Anxiety "I've been on Pristiq for anxiety for over half a decade and honestly I think it's great. Sure it's a bit of a crutch. But I've managed to achieve my university degree, meet, marry and bare children with the love of my life all while under the influence of Pristiq. I was actually prescribed Pristiq due to my anxiety and it has worked a treat. It's worth noting that I am on 200mg a day and every time I get my script filled the doc has to call up poisons control. But it's all good in the hood for me. Just have it with my coffee in the morning and try and get on with my life. I've achieved a lot while on Pristiq and I'm sure it has given me additional confidence and makes me more sexual, lasting and sensual. It's been win win win for me."