Desvenlafaxine User Reviews & Ratings (Page 5)

• Alice...
• July 11, 2014

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "Diagnosed with Cyclothymia, as severely depressed and adult ADHD. Been on Pristiq for 2 years, before that Cymbalta. Although both worked well, Pristiq has helped much more (no meds for ADHD). Had to have the dosage raised today because I must have hit a plateau and started feeling bad again. Doc says the higher dosage for six weeks should help get me back on track, and then I can take the regular dose again. For anyone that has quit these medicines cold turkey, please don't do it, can cause seizures/psychotic episodes, talk to the doctor. I'll be on these meds or something all my life, so feeling better-no complaints. I'm actually nicer on Pristiq and since I don't take anything for ADHD, I'm still very interesting too."

• Tazzy
• July 31, 2013

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "After being depressed for a long time, I decided to approach my doctor after therapy alone was not working. I was suffering severe mood swings, crying every day, anxiety attacks and so on. I am now on day 6 of 50mg of Pristiq and it's amazing. I feel calm, in control, have not cried once and feel really good. Side effects have been nausea, insomnia (hope this will settle down) and decreased appetite. I was putting my family through hell and it feels like I have finally turned a corner."

• dotts
• March 3, 2014

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I have been on EVERYTHING even when it was in test study, Prozac, etc. After being on the test study for Pristiq, I begged to be put on it on a regular basis. I sleep 7-8 hours per night uninterrupted. I am high performance on my job. I have a renewed life, even including exercise. However, this medicine is a 4-tier on my Blue Cross supplemental, and it is very expensive for a 90-day supply."

• eaced
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• March 27, 2024

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Major Depressive Disorder "I struggled with treatment-resistant depression for years and ended up in a depressive episode so severe I didn't leave my home for months. Did ketamine therapy, tested over 15-20 meds, nothing at all helped. Tried everything short of MAOIs and TMS (which were my next steps), and started Pristiq, thinking it was just one more med to add to the roster of failures, and it actually worked. It took some time, but after about two months on 50mg, I noticed things started to improve. At 100mg, I am feeling so much better. I never really believed anything would work for me, and I think Pristiq saved my life. My worst side effect is some pretty intense drowsiness, so I just take it before bed. I also tend to get pretty easily irritated a few hours after my dose (another reason to take it before bed). Brain zaps and sexual problems are also a thing. I've found taking my dose every other day manages the overall side effects pretty well."

• Amber
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• July 10, 2018

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I had been on pristiq 50mg for around 5 years. It helped me dramatically to get my life back on track. I noticed within the past year that it was not working as effectively as my body had probably adjusted to it so my doctor upped the dosage to 100mg recently. At first I noticed some nausea, headaches and extreme tiredness. These side effects have now subsided after a week and I’m starting to feel the full effects of the increased dosage. I feel absolutely amazing, I am focused at work, I am getting back in to my study, I have started to lose weight again due to my appetite decreasing ( I was eating way too much before due to depression) I am much more sociable and exercising again. I was also having trouble with substance abuse and that has now also stopped. Everyone’s experience with a drug is going to be a different story but I personally am very grateful for pristiq."

• Dev
• Taken for less than 1 month
• October 20, 2018

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I have been on the generic form and so far it has made me sweat a lot but my anxiety has almost gone completely away. My depression is lessening and my concentration and mood have improved dramatically. Before taking it my boss was about to firer me now he says I'm a pleasure to work with and my mood and quality of work have improved drastically. So far it has saved my life...."

• JMano
• February 18, 2020

For Anxiety "This drug has been amazing for me. I have always been a little anxious but no issues. Then I had appendicitis that hospital failed to diagnose despite repeated visits for 8 days. This progressed to peritonitis and sepsis and I was in hospital for 5 weeks, after nearly dying. I went back to work ASAP and then realised I was on the brink of a breakdown. Constant crying and hospital flashbacks and unable to sleep. I went to a new GP desperate for help and he recommended Pristiq. I had the first four days of side effects - bad headache, feeling out of sorts, constipation - but after two weeks I felt better. The anxiety? Turned off like a tap. No more constant running of negative thoughts or traumatic flashbacks. It has been amazing. Only issue I have with it now is some days I feel utterly exhausted but it’s not every day, and the freedom from the anxiety is the best - I am a better partner and better colleague. I’ve never taken anti depressants before and I’m a convert now."

• Dont...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• October 18, 2013

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I've been on Pristiq for about 2 years, started on 50mg, but after a couple of months I started feeling very moody. Doctor put it up to 100mg. Again, a few months later, the same thing happened, had it increased to 150mg. I've been on this dose for over a year. Doctor never thought I would take this dose as I am small-framed and only 55kg. I started taking it at night and found that my mind was going at a million miles an hour. Did not sleep for a week, changed to the morning which works well. As others have mentioned, if I miss a dose I get dizzy. Pristiq has helped me, saved my marriage, and my life. I am calmer, anxiety gone, mood swings gone, suicidal thoughts gone. Give it time, and if all else fails, get help. Good luck!"

• June
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 1, 2019

For Anxiety "I have suffered from moderately severe anxiety for most of my life. No depression. I took Paxil CR for about 3 years and it worked very well for about 2 years, then stopped working. Switched to Pristiq and feel much better. It took about 3 weeks to notice any change in my anxiety, but it definitely works. I've been on 50mg for a month now. Only side effects are dry mouth and some excessive tiredness, but that is so much better than being on edge all the time. Some reduced appetite, nausea and insomnia when first beginning this med but has since gone away. Only gave 9/10 because I'm only a month into this med and probably haven't reached the full benefit yet. Also take Xanax a few times a week (1mg), and while that works amazing for situational anxiety, it doesn't work for generalized all day everyday anxiety. Pristiq is working very well for me! Hope I don't jinx it."

• Prist...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 25, 2018

For Anxiety "Please give this drug a try if you are unsure. For years I have tried to avoid taking medication due to an extremely negative experience with paxil as a teenager. Over the years I have tried natural remedies such as hypnotherapy, therapy, bodytalk, reflexology, meditation and exercise. I have always suffered from extreme shame and severe anxiety. I hit a recent downward spiral of depression and I was scared of what might happen and called my doctor. I have been on pristiq for 2 months and regret not taking it sooner. My anxiety is at an all time low and my depression has subsided. My motivation has returned and even my confidence. I was scared to try it with all of the negative reviews but so happy I did. I initial noticed loss of appetite and trouble sleeping the first 2 weeks then after that it has been smooth sailing. The only issue I now struggle with is trouble reaching orgasm but if that's my only issue. I'll take it. I have also continued body talk and therapy"

• hayley
• March 10, 2013

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "This medication is amazing! After 3 days of being extremely sick, I started to feel amazing. I am now 1 month into it and am so happy all the time and have no depressive thoughts at all. It kind of blocks out any sad thoughts. Works perfectly for me."

• Mary...
• May 16, 2013

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "After being in denial, I completely broke down with anxiety and depression. Went to my doctor and prescribed me Pristiq. After a week, I took a big turnaround for the best, so happy! Stick with it, give it a chance to work. Side effects were nausea for the first few days, stomach upset, but don't give up! I have been on Celexa in the past but takes too long to kick in... plus 40 lbs weight gain. Pristiq cuts the appetite, and you're not hungry, at least if you need a few lbs off, this is the medicine to be on!"

• jahnj...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• February 24, 2014

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I was desperate for something that would get me out of the dark abyss that is anxiety and depression, and get rid of the constant thoughts of suicide. I turned to Pristiq - it was new, and made out to be a miracle. And it was. I had no side effects when I started taking it. I was able to get back to work and perform better in school. Everything seemed great. I had my life back. Until, months later, I went my first day without it. The withdrawal symptoms were crippling. Paranoia, a pounding headache, vertigo, and sweating are just a few of the symptoms I experienced in my withdrawal. The headache was so severe I could do nothing but lie down. I still take. Too difficult to quit."

• Chipp...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• September 18, 2015

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "As they say what helps you may not help others but Pristiq for me was a life saver. About the 3rd day I was feeling much better from severe depression with suicidal thoughts. After about 5 days I was back to reality and never looked back, that was about 3 or so years ago. I take 50 mg once in the morning daily and since I am 70 yrs old now and I'm staying on them and not going to try to do without them, I don't want to take a chance and end up back with the most horrible sickness I have ever experienced, clinical depression."

• dicea...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• October 5, 2016

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I was started on Pristiq 50mg a year ago when my moods started to get out of control, as well as my anger. I was so angry all the time, and I felt like I was always on the verge of crying. I experienced no side effects whatsoever from the Pristiq, and felt a noticable difference within a week. I'm not angry for no reason any more, and I don't feel like I have to cry when I drop a spoon. This medication worked wonders for my depression, anxiety, anger and invasive thoughts. My doctor increased the dose to 100mg after I plummeted emotionally, despite the Pristiq. The increased dosage worked! I've been on 100mg for 6 months with no side effects and no complaints."

• Tulsa...
• May 9, 2014

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "My Psychiatrist put me on 50mg Pristiq for compulsive, regular binge eating and anxiety/depression. The first week I was on it, my anxiety-ridden thoughts about food changed completely and I lost interest in binge eating, so I have lost a few pounds so far. I was extremely happy, with virtually no anxiety. I am now on week 2, and the anxiety is starting to creep back in and I'm not quite as happy, so I will be discussing increasing my dosage with my doctor. The loss of interest in food has persisted. Overall, I think this medication is great and I plan to stay on it."

• Peg
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• March 2, 2023

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I had been on so many different antidepressants over the years. I would have to put on higher and higher doses until I was on the maximum amount but, still severely depressed. I was in the hospital again. The doctors did a Gene-sight DNA study that compared my DNA with known antidepressants and PSY medications. It came back with a list of which medications were classified for my DNA and what my body would have the least amount of problems with and work effectively. Turns out the medications I was on in the past were in the category 'Use with Extreme Caution'. My physician changed me to Pristiq. Within a week I felt better than I had depression-wise in years and have been doing well for 6 years now. The Pristiq now has a generic pill much less expensive. Rating in regard to effectiveness +10, side effects in the instructions for use leaflet."

• brookie
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• March 29, 2022

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I would not be here without Pristiq. I've been on it for about a year now, but within the first month I knew I had found the one. I honestly had/have no side effects, but I know from experience (from the multitude of other meds I had to try before I found this one) that meds affect everyone differently. The only downside is that when I forget to take it for 2-3 days, I get "brain zaps", but thats the only symptom. Anyways, I would have not fallen back in love with life if it wasn't for Pristiq. to anyone reading this, it took me months and months to find this med, I was miserable, it felt like torture to live. I wanted to give up. I was so close to giving up, but I didn't, and I found something that fit like a puzzle piece. I am so sorry that you are still searching for your puzzle piece, but please please don't give up."

• Foste...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• January 25, 2023

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I have struggled with solutions with PMDD for decades. I have been on this medication for 2 years and am finally leaving a review, because I truly believe that Pristiq alone has saved my life. I had run the gamut through antidepressants, bc, diet, and exercise to treat the symptoms of PMDD to no avail. Every month going through the same cycle of anxiety, insomnia, rage outbursts, impulsive thinking, and helplessness to the point of thinking of suicide. I doctor shopped for someone who would believe me that my hormones were doing this to me and I wanted off the rollercoaster. I felt it was a losing battle. I would be this miserable person forever. As a last resort I took a gene test. It changed my life. Pristiq, was the only medication in my "green column" My doctor put me on a varying dosage. I take slightly more or less depending on my symptoms. It has worked. I have my life back, or maybe for the first time. I no longer struggle with sleep, hormones, or anger. I have peace."

• c2da3
• June 15, 2015

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I take prestiq for anxiety (first) & depression. I don't know what the true definition of "normal" is but, this is the closest I've felt to it in quite some time. My most recent attempt of feeling "normal" was with 8 years/ lexapro. My concentration level was on point & my anxiety level was low but, the zombie like feel, the lack of sex drive & weight gain eventually drove me to find an alternative. After several failed attempts with various other options, I can say that prestiq has proven to disprove most, if not all, of my concerns. Yes, I still get fiery mad at times (with good reason) but, it's controllable. Yes, I still get sad/anxious but, there are tangible reasons & I am now able to pull myself out a lot sooner."

• 32...
• March 13, 2019

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Major Depressive Disorder "I recently came to terms with my mental illness and decided to seek help. I decided to take pristiq after it had been sitting in my cabinet for over a month. Day 1 was terrible - I couldn’t eat, I was nauseous, paranoid, socially withdrawn, went to hot yoga and almost fainted (pristiq makes you sweat a lot! Body temperature sky rockets). Day 2 was not quite so bad.. but still was not sure if I should continue because I felt a lot of brain fog. I felt kind of numb too. Although! No irritability or depressive symptoms on those first two days. So I gave day 3 a shot & I've been good ever since then. I’m only on my 2nd week now, but I just wanted to write to people who may want to give up after the first week of bad symptoms and tell them my story. Because I’ve felt great ever since then and I have had no melt downs, haven’t cried once, or yelled at anyone, or questioned my own self worth. So good luck to anyone who’s going on the same journey. I hope we all find the right cure."

• Anonymous
• September 26, 2009

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I'm a 40-year-old female, mother of two. I'm being newly treated for depression. I've been taking Pristiq for 5 days. I noticed an incredible difference within 30 minutes of my first dosage. (I know it seems hard to believe) The heaviness between my eyes subsided, and I felt at ease. I am loving my new attitude towards all and everything. I have noticed some side effects, a sore jaw from clenching, and a lack of appetite. I can live with the sore teeth and jaw as long as that is the worst of the side effects, and a bit of weight loss would be great. I notice I'm waking up happier and bright-eyed, instead of miserable and heavy feeling. So far, I'm loving Pristiq."

• Mara
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 2, 2020

For Anxiety "After being on Venlor for a year and a half, the medication suddenly stopped working during my final year of high school, ensuing in a damn difficult year emotionally and mentally. This year May, I decided to try Exsira (generic of Pristiq - cannot get the generic in my country). The first 4 weeks were difficult with difficulty sleeping in the first week, heightened anxiety, and waking up so fatigued and drained throughout the day. Most of the side effects subsided except the fatigue which truly became debilitating - especially during quarantine. So I'm officially stopping this medication soon and trialling another. Reminder - Just because this medication didn't work out for me, does not mean it won't for you. I had such hope that it would work because Venlor did, but everyone is different. Don't let horrible reviews discourage you, everything is worth a try to be happy, so keep at it! Sending my best to all of you struggling, you got this <3 Mara, 18"

• amyc
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 2, 2014

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I have been taking 50 mg of Pristiq for about 5 weeks now, and just started taking 100 mg a couple of days ago. I am 31 years old, but have been on antidepressants for 10 years. I've tried many SSRIs (Lexapro for several years) and never felt much better at all. I remained depressed and began to try to accept that this is just what my life would be. Finally, about 2 months ago, my doctor's office began doing genetic testing which can guide them on what medicines your body will respond best to. So Pristiq it was. I think my mood has lifted somewhat. I'm really hoping it will improve even more as studies show full benefits take 6-8 weeks."

• Cwilli
• September 19, 2015

Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) for Depression "I'd been on Prozac for 5 years and its effects had started to wane. I was severely depressed with anxiety and extreme tiredness. I was going to bed at 7pm and had to drag myself out of bed. Everything felt completely overwhelming. I sat with the prescription for about a month. Some reviews I'd read had me terrified. It got so bad I thought there was nothing left to lose. I decided to ensure I'd never run out and I'd take it at the same time every day. I had a migraine at the very beginning so drank more water and I am feeling great. The best part is increased energy. I feel like a normal person. This has been a lifesaver. Would recommend if you have debilitating fatigue."