Pristiq and Nausea: What Users Say

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

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."

• Anonymous
• August 19, 2014

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."

• NYC...
• November 17, 2008

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."

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

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."

• amy...
• July 26, 2014

For Depression "I've been taking 50 mg Pristiq in combination with 300 mg Wellbutrin for two weeks, and it's the best I've tried. This week I've been able to handle family and work issues with a sense of hope and able to focus rather than anxiety/worrying, and that's awesome. I had been taking Prozac and Wellbutrin for years but felt it wasn't working. I tried everything but other meds didn't work or had bad side effects. This made me queasy at first, but my Dr. had said that would get better, and it did. I take it at night because in the morning, it makes me tired. So don't give up! There is hope. Hang in there."

• Taz...
• July 31, 2013

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."

• Amb...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• July 10, 2018

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 into 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."

• Mar...
• May 16, 2013

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!"

• 32...
• March 13, 2019

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 skyrockets). Day 2 was not quite so bad, but I was still 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, and 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 meltdowns, 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."

• SRa...
• July 29, 2019

For Major Depressive Disorder "This medication isn't really something the average person should take. Desvenlafaxine is an alternative medication if you're extremely sensitive to all other forms of meds. I have taken over 20 different medications before, and I finally had a genetic test and discovered that almost every known psychiatric medication would have a negative effect on my body. Only 4 medications were cleared in green status for me, all new and expensive, Pristiq being the highest recommended. I have never experienced anything like Pristiq, as I haven't noticed any major side effects. Decreased sex drive, headaches, and nausea have always been deal breakers with other medications, but not this one. The only side effect I can say I have felt is perhaps drowsiness, which can be annoying but avoidable with certain actions. If you've taken a plethora of medications, I would recommend a genetic test as you may find you have the same sensitivity as I have, and that Pristiq may be a good alternative."

• waf...
• February 5, 2017

For Depression "I have been on Pristiq for at least six years for post-menopausal anxiety/depression. I tried several other medications without success, but this one is great. No side effects other than headache and mild nausea the first couple of days. I feel 'normal' 99% of the time - moods have evened out, almost no anxiety/irritability, and have an overall happy feeling. I would take it in the morning, as it can cause mild insomnia. I will stay with this one."

• Anonymous
• October 22, 2008

For Depression "As others have described, I have seen a huge change after the first 2 doses. Recent emotional and mental stress, along with going through menopausal changes, threw me completely off balance. My doctor prescribed Pristiq, and I cannot believe the huge change. My head is so clear and balanced, I feel like the slate has been wiped clean. My eyesight also feels clear. I suppose that is because my brain is in better balance. I believe this to be a wonderful improvement on this type of antidepressant, and I will continue to take it for as long as it helps. The only side effect I have is slight nausea, which should subside in a week."

• Dwe...
• August 23, 2013

For Depression "I tried Prozac, Paxil, Cymbalta, and Lexapro before I was put on Pristiq. The Lexapro helped but left me a sexual zombie. So, my psychiatrist started me on 50 mg of Pristiq. Within days, the sexual interest and feelings returned. After two weeks, she upped it to 100 mg, and I've not had to take any anxiety medicines. Negatives: Nausea, upset stomach. Very vivid and sometimes very frightening dreams. A lot of tossing and turning. Fortunately, I have a very patient and loving partner who has been with me through all these months of depression. I will say that the medicine has made me much more positive and outgoing, and it is amazing how other people respond."

• Ano...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• December 16, 2024

"I have been on Pristiq for over a year now, almost two. The first month or two of this medication was horrible. I had horrible nausea and dizziness. But… after a few weeks, I felt amazing. My anxiety has lifted, and I’ve accomplished more than I ever thought I could. My anxiety was truly holding me back in life, and now I’m more successful than I have ever been. Pristiq truly saved my life and future. Stick through the first month of side effects because it really is worth it. Side note, if I forget a dose, I get majorly dizzy, but that is my own fault for forgetting a dose."

• sis...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 12, 2013

For Depression "I have suffered from anxiety and mood swings most of my life. But since my divorce and living alone, the depression was becoming debilitating. Feeling paralyzed by fear and barely functioning, I was taking Xanax. Friends and family were very concerned that I was going to drop off the edge. I am highly sensitive to medication. Having tried over half a dozen antidepressants with side effects, I thought I was doomed to a life of torment. A friend was taking it and liked it, so I tried it. I did have side effects in the beginning - nausea, loss of appetite, racing heart - but most are now gone. I still clench some and my jaw gets sore, but I am so much better! Four months was a big turning point for me. So, don't lose hope!"

• Alm...
• August 19, 2008

For Depression "I have been taking Pristiq for 5 days. This is the first antidepressant I have ever taken. It is working great, though the first day or two I felt like I was taking diet pills. My appetite is gone and I have lost 4 pounds in 5 days. I have felt a good deal of nausea, but have not vomited. I'm always thirsty and have trouble sleeping (which was a problem before Pristiq), but my doctor gave me Xanax to help me fall asleep. I feel better than I did before. I hope it will work for you too."

• Cha...
• March 24, 2013

For Depression "20-year-old female. I had my first dose at 50 mg this morning. After battling depression and anxiety for about 3 years, I made the choice to start meds when it became too much to bear. What I can tell you about my day is that it's been an experience! Feeling foggy, dizzy, slightly nauseous. The strangest side effects were the extreme hour-long high, fidgeting, and a huge compulsion to clench my jaw/grind my teeth. Regardless of the side effects (remembering it is only day one), I have felt not only happiness but joy, comfort, and decreased anxiety. Before today, I can't remember the last time I had a good laugh."

• lil...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• May 29, 2024

For Depression "It took me about a week to fully adjust to this medication but now that I have, it is helping me dramatically. My intrusive thoughts have subsided, and I don't feel like sleeping my life away. I can function better overall, and my anxiety and angry outbursts have subsided as well. Side effects were nausea and feeling a little woozy. Pupil dilation, and some trouble getting good rest. Now that I am adjusted though, there are no side effects. Would highly recommend."

• fee...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• September 11, 2013

For Depression "I suffered from depression caused by many different things. Before this medicine, I had hit the point where I was horrible. My marriage was about to end, it was so bad. The first day, I took one as soon as I picked it up. Within a few hours, I was happier. I had more patience, and that horrible ball of tension across my shoulders was gone for the first time in months. I was nauseated and dizzy. I am now on day three, I notice I am handling stressful things better, and I am generally happier. The dizziness has abated, diarrhea and nausea are still there, and I am sweating way more. That is worth it though, to save my marriage and feel this happy again."

• Bac...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 3, 2017

For Depression "I couldn't be happier with Pristiq as it has helped me get back in the game of life again. I started taking Pristiq six weeks ago, following its recommendations and those who have had success on it. While on daily Pristiq, I also do 30 minutes of exercise (rebounding, walking, swimming), drink 2 liters of water, only 1 cup of coffee/tea a day and no alcohol. Regular bedtime/rise time (8 hours min sleep). Quick results help me to persevere for 3 weeks to form new habits and get control of my life again. The rebounding offset my dizziness, nausea, sluggishness, constipation and 'I-don't-feel-like-it.' Pristiq and a healthier lifestyle have me feeling like my old self again, enjoying life, friendships, good health and work again."

• Cne...
• June 23, 2016

For Depression "I'm not a doctor, but I want everyone who's reading this to know: EVERYONE REACTS DIFFERENTLY TO MEDICINE. Pristiq didn't work for me, unfortunately. I was on the lowest mg. It didn't do anything when I took it, but man...when I didn't take it...it was like I was having an 'out of body experience.' It was the weirdest feeling. Not like a 'cool' high. It was uncomfortable and annoying. I kept taking it in hopes of it helping my suicidal thoughts and major anxiety. Now, all antidepressants can increase suicidal thoughts. Pristiq definitely increased these bad thoughts. I threw up before work (anxiety) and was always a nervous wreck. I'm off the medicine now. I'm going back to the doctors to talk about other options. God bless all of you."

• Lee...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• September 5, 2013

For Depression "I was on a low dose of Cymbalta for 2 weeks and could not handle the fatigue. I switched to Pristiq 50 mg a little over a week ago. My anxiety is 95% gone, my depression, the negative thoughts are gone. I'm not happy, but I'm not sad either. My irritability and being easily startled have resolved. I'm able to go out without being anxious and am returning to work part-time in a few weeks. I do feel a little tired a few hours after taking the medication, but it doesn't last. My sleep is a little disrupted, with a little nausea, but nothing I can't manage. Constipation is a side effect, but I use Colace (without the laxative). I've lost 4 lbs so far. I plan to stay on this indefinitely at this point. Just relieved to finally have some relief from the anxiety and depression."

• Anonymous
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• August 19, 2015

For Depression "I have been depressed for coming up to 5 years. Pristiq is the first medication I found that worked. I started on 50 mg and then started 100 mg. I found that I was able to get through the days without falling apart and having constant suicidal thoughts. I have been on Pristiq for a few years now and I have always had very vivid dreams on it, and if I miss a couple of pills, I get very dizzy, nauseous, headaches, and become very emotional. I love this antidepressant, but I fear for my dependence on it."

• sbo...
• October 25, 2008

For Anxiety "I have been taking Pristiq for 3 days now. I take it to help with anxiety. I have lost 7 pounds in 3 days and I feel great. I'm calmer now and I have more patience with my two-year-old son. I had a slight problem with nausea, and I had no appetite, but apart from that, I can feel a huge difference in only 3 days."

• dep...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 22, 2013

For Depression "I'm 20 years old and just started Pristiq 4 days ago. It's my first time on antidepressants, and I noticed a change immediately! I can actually enjoy my days and not cry excessively or have as many anxiety attacks. The only side effects I have are nausea and loss of appetite. But I highly recommend it!"