Pristiq, also known as desvenlafaxine, is an antidepressant that belongs to a family of drugs referred to as serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). This drug is used to treat mood disorders and does so by restoring balance to certain chemicals in the brain thought to cause these disorders. While Pristiq helps relieve the symptoms of these mood disorders, there are a variety of side effects that may outweigh its benefits.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effects associated with Pristiq are nausea, dry mouth, increased perspiration, dizziness, diarrhea, constipation, decreased appetite, insomnia, having abnormal dreams, ringing in the ears, impotence in men, fatigue, weight loss, becoming irritable, blurred vision and a decreased sex drive in men.
Less Common Side Effects
According to the experts at eMedTV.com, there are side effects that occur in fewer than 2 percent of those taking Pristiq. They include excessive yawning, problems ejaculating, frequent nosebleeds, hot flashes, an inability to have an orgasm and an increase in your levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol.
Serious Side Effects
Serious side effects are typically infrequent, but may still occur. You should report them immediately if you experience any of the following: thoughts of suicide, acts of hostility or aggression, feeling restless, displaying unusual behavior, anxiety, panic attacks, becoming agitated easily or experiencing extreme mood swings. You may also have seizures, develop high blood pressure or find that you begin bruising or bleeding easily.
Signs of Serotonin Syndrome
As stated by eMedTV.com, serotonin syndrome is a dangerous condition that is associated with certain medications such as Pristiq. The signs include confusion, diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, changes in your mental status, changes in your blood pressure, overactive reflexes, feeling shaky, seizures, rapid heart rate, hallucinations, irregular heart rhythm, high fever, excessive sweating and agitation.
Signs of an Overdose
If you take too much Pristiq, the health professionals of Drugs.com recommend seeking emergency medical attention. These signs include headache, agitation, vomiting, increased heart rate, numbness or tingly feeling, dizziness, dry mouth and diarrhea.
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