Pristiq User Reviews & Ratings (Page 3)

• Finally...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• July 26, 2017

For Depression "I have been on 100mg of Pristiq for three years for depression and anxiety. Without question, it has changed my life incredibly. I waited 47 years to have the courage to take an antidepressant and wish with all my heart I had met this medication in my 20s. I started on 50mg but after two months reluctantly headed up to 100... my reservations were for nothing... this medication has worked beautifully for me. I did have side effects in the first few weeks: beating heart, very thirsty, and slight headaches, but they passed quickly, and I have been amazed by its strength ever since. I have had some serious life crises to deal with in the past three years, and often feared the medication would not be able to 'hold' me... it always has. I have an amazing therapist who I saw for the first two years, but no longer need that support; the medication is enough. I used to have so many concerns about taking any such medications - was frequently turned away from them by what I'd read as horror stories online... I wanted to let you know... it's not for all of us... some of us do have great reviews... maybe not enough of us drop back to pass them on because we got busy with our new lives where wellness is the new normal. I never worry about coming off them; I don't care if I have to take them forever... as long as I feel this good, I'm not ending my relationship with them..."

• megan...
• Taken for 6 months to 1 year
• February 10, 2023

For Depression "Pristiq saved my life. I was suffering from suicidal thoughts, severe anxiety, and depression for 5 months after getting covid. I tried lexapro, which was awful for me. After that I was against taking any other antidepressant, but my mental health continued to decline. I reached out to my provider, who ran a genome test to narrow in on which medications would be best for my body to metabolize. It showed pristiq and wellbutrin, so we picked one. Pristiq was the choice and after bumping it up from 25mg to 50mg, I made a complete recovery with my mental health. I have been on it for 9 months and am now going to start to taper off. If my mental health starts to decline again, I will 100% being using Pristiq again. Hope this helps someone!"

• Candles
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• January 27, 2017

For Depression "Psychotropic medications are appropriate for the small percentage of us who would literally die by our own hands if we didn't take them. For that reason, their relative levels of effectiveness are often viewed by us through a completely different lens (realistically) than by those who take them for less serious reasons. Even bouts of major depression don't constitute a definite reason for taking pharmaceuticals. If it keeps you alive & lets you work towards having something better BEYOND just 'existing', it's working. Try to reevaluate the manner in which YOU are evaluating the medication's effectiveness based upon what it is TRULY intended to do. As with everything in life, maintaining realistic goals & expectations is key to happiness."

• Kay
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 19, 2020

For Depression "Had a DNA test to recommend what type of antidepressant I should be taking. I had been on Venlafaxine for years after refusing others. Pristiq was recommended by this test for me to take. I did notice a number of positive changes taking Pristiq. Generic 'Desvenlafax.' I am more alert, have somewhat more interest in life. No longer think about dying. It doesn't control my anxiety, so therefore I take a mild dose of Klonopin when needed. It did not give me energy but helps me get up and around. I take 50 mg a day. I do sleep 10 to 12 hours a day, sometimes not waking up during that time, but I know that's the depression. I do take Amitriptyline for pain from Spinal Disk Degeneration pain."

• dvaldez
• December 10, 2009

For Depression "For those coming off antidepressants such as Wellbutrin, Lexapro, and Zoloft. The venlafaxine formulation in Effexor and Pristiq work in entirely different ways than the medicine you used to take. If you cut cold from your old drug, you will also have withdrawal symptoms despite having started on a new antidepressant. If you are coming off something you've been taking longer than 5 months, ask your doctor to wean you off with smaller and smaller doses first. Lexapro, Zoloft, Celexa, and Prozac are SSRIs. Wellbutrin (bupropion also marketed as Zyban) is an NDRI. Effexor, Pristiq, like Cymbalta, are all SNRIs. They all go after different receptors in your brain, and some of them change how your brain works."

• amybi...
• 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."

• katy
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• October 10, 2023

For Major Depressive Disorder "I had my first episode of Major Depressive Disorders for 4 months. I have been on so many SSRIs and other groups of antidepressants like Sertraline, Fluoxetine, Wellbutrin, Vortioxetine, and I couldn't tolerate the side effects (Insomnia, anxiety, heart racing). It was affecting my quality of life. I couldn't work, my relationship with my husband started having more problems, and I had brain fog and couldn't concentrate. Pristiq brought me back again. I felt better after the first two weeks. I have the energy to live in this beautiful world again. My anhedonia is much better. I sleep well and eat well. My relationship with my husband is great and our sex life is fantastic, no libido, no decrease in sex drive. I had minor side effects for the first two days: headache, fatigue. For everyone who reads negative reviews about Pristiq, all of us - we are different, and our bodies react to medication differently. Never give up; try until you find the right one."

• Anonymous
• March 1, 2009

For Depression "I will start by saying that I suffer from major depression. I have tried just about everything in the book and was starting to just about feel like giving up hope (on medications, that is!) and was completely exhausted. My doctor just recently put me on Pristiq, and almost immediately I noticed a difference and have had no side effects whatsoever. I have been excited about life and happy to get out of bed every day now. It has been a drastic change, and I am so thankful. I'm not sure how this medicine might affect others, but for me, it has worked wonders."

• Anonymous
• August 28, 2008

For Depression "I have been on Pristiq for about 2 months. I've tried probably 10-12 other antidepressants with lots of side effects that made me want to quit them. I feel better emotionally today. I have no side effects and I am able to complete tasks in a reasonable amount of time, without feeling overwhelmed. I have no anxiety issues and I am finally enjoying my life. I only wish the insurance industry would cover this medication."

• Happy...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• April 19, 2024

For Depression "This medicine has helped my joint pain, lessened my PTSD triggers, reduced anxiety, given me energy and mental clarity. Most critically, I no longer feel depressed. Pristiq was identified as one of the better antidepressants for my body in terms of metabolization with the least likely to cause side effects (identified through genetic testing). Also worth noting, a genetic mutation was identified. I am now taking a supplement to assist with the folic acid conversion process."

• Ga girl
• Taken for less than 1 month
• May 27, 2014

For Depression "Been off and on antidepressants for 20 years. Been on 100 mg of Zoloft for about 5 years now and was having some adverse effects - gained a lot of weight for starters. Started Pristiq about 3 weeks ago. I feel a lot clearer in the mind - guess I didn't realize the fog I was in on the Zoloft. I'm not hungry - lost seven pounds in the first two weeks. Had some headaches while switching over. Sleep hasn't been a problem - but I have found that I need to take the meds at the same time in the mornings or I have headaches. So far, so good. Hopefully it will continue long term. I will probably be on meds the rest of my life - I've come to terms with that. Hoping this will be the last one I'm on!"

• Bpaint
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• November 16, 2023

"Listen guys, it has been a serious battle dealing with depression and panic disorder. I almost lost everything over the course of 8 years. Struggling to go outside, keep friends, make friends, keep a job, work a job... everything... even going into stores. But this medicine at 50mg for only about 2 months now has completely changed that. I mean, seriously guys, it's no joke. First day I was on a cloud, felt at peace. Second day and over the next week it leveled out and I felt in control for the first time in years. The only side effects for me were dry mouth and insomnia, both went away during the first week. This medicine really does work, please don't be scared. We got this!"

• Amand...
• December 3, 2014

For Depression "Finally I see hope. After being diagnosed with severe depression (took me 4 years to seek treatment), I tried 5 different medications (plus therapy). They all failed miserably and I lost the hope I didn't even know I had, then tried suicide twice. Finally I was prescribed Pristiq and let me just say... what a difference! It got easier to wake up and get through the day, my self-esteem got better, my anxiety doesn't come as often, and I can even make plans for the future. For the first time I see change is possible. Just don't ever forget to take your pills, you can't really function without them. I got no side effects except for increased hunger/libido, and a bit of difficulty falling asleep. I'm taking 150mg now."

• Anonj
• April 11, 2016

For Depression "Absolutely no side effects. I lost weight on this medication; however, if you do not want to lose weight, talk to your psychiatrist, and they can prescribe medications that can help you gain weight if you are underweight. This medication worked perfectly on my depression, and I have not relapsed since I was weaned off it. No sexual side effects; it actually helped my sex life. I am so happy I tried it."

• Kevin
• January 23, 2014

For Depression "Went to the doctor complaining of anxiety. Was waking up and not falling back asleep or even worse, could not fall asleep. Was also having anxiety attacks. The last time this happened, I was prescribed Effexor, which was a nightmare, and Celexa, which did nothing for me. Ended up quitting my job and with time off, I returned to normal. Quitting my job this time is not an option, so the doctor put me on Pristiq. Noticed a positive effect within 7 days, and I have been on it for a month now. This drug has worked absolute wonders for me. I have had no side effects at all (and no sexual impotency)."

• Jo Girl
• November 22, 2013

For Depression "Have been taking Pristiq for just over a month -- relief from anxiety and depression after 3 days and able to concentrate and focus again to full capacity -- no side effects and sleeping well. I was on Effexor on and off for 10 years, with not a lot of relief from anxiety symptoms. Have lost some weight as well, and am starting to feel very positive."

• Pristiq...
• March 21, 2009

For Depression "I've been on Pristiq for 8 weeks and believe me, I have never felt better in my life. It works, no side effects. I'm a happy person now. The only thing I wouldn't do is to take Pristiq at night time. I take it at 8:00 am, so I don't have sleeping problems. Try it this way. This medicine is wonderful. GOOD LUCK EVERYBODY."

• WCano
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 25, 2013

For Depression "Best medication EVER! After 2 years of feeling angry and upset and constantly fighting with my husband (over stupid things) and having suicidal and self-harm thoughts purely from severe depression, I am now feeling 100% absolutely fantastic ALL the time thanks to Pristiq! Before, I could barely get out of bed. Now I have heaps of energy to last all day and am constantly on the go. I LOVE how this medication makes me feel. I'd highly recommend trying this antidepressant."

• Johnny
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• August 4, 2018

For Depression "Depression is like being dead while you're alive. It is the most scary illness in the world. After doing a genetic test while on Effexor (that made my depression worse), Pristiq was the best result. I have no side effects; life is good again. Don't lose hope. This medication works; the side effects are due to interactions in the body chemistry. While you do a genetic test, you'll find a drug that will balance your brain. I wish you all the best."

• Coope...
• June 7, 2015

For Depression "My doctor put me on 100 mg once in the morning, and I could tell a huge difference in the way I felt. For the first time, I felt like I could breathe, I could see colors again, the trees, the flowers, everything changed from grey to vivid brightness; however, this effect was not immediate. I was taking 120 mg of Cymbalta, 2 60 mg caps a day, when this was the medicine I was on for years. I fought a good fight with doctors over years and years. They were telling me I was bipolar and I believed them. It took one great doctor 15 minutes to change my life. I have been on Pristiq 100 mg for going on 3 years now, and I love life again. I can't wait to wake up early in the morning and watch the sunrise, and I found out that I wasn't bipolar."

• Chelsea
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• March 14, 2023

For Depression "I was on generic Pristiq for almost two years before my panic attacks, anxiety, and depression became creeping back. It also caused hair loss and night sweats that made me have to change my clothes up to 3 times a night and I gained 30lbs with no end in sight. Coming off this drug has been horrendous. I have had full blowen withdrawal symptoms, panic attacks, and suicidal thoughts. I got put in the psychiatric ward and lost my job. It’s been weeks and I still don’t feel like myself, still can’t work and I'm at risk of losing everything. This medication literally almost killed me and I don’t know if I’ll ever be the same. Beware."

• beebl...
• April 14, 2015

For Depression "I am a 24-year-old male who has been dealing with depression, anxiety, and a lack of focus in my life for a couple of years now. After a recommendation from a friend, I decided to make a change and start on 50mg of Pristiq. I'm a relatively small person, 5'5 and 130 pounds, and immediately felt the effects of the medication. I had a huge surge of energy that was a little overwhelming. I was much more sociable and confident, also, my curiosity was dramatically increased and I managed to breeze through several books in a week's time. This was a huge shift in my normal behavior, which was generally lazy and unfocused. Now I've been on the drug for about 3 months, and the effects aren't as noticeable, but I'd say my life has changed for the better."

• MAB
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• February 17, 2020

For Depression "Initially Pristiq kept me on an even keel. Then it didn’t seem to make a difference. I don’t feel interested in anything. I have gained 20 lbs in six months. I told my doctor and she said to stop taking it. Easier said than done. It made me extremely sick. Headache and nervousness were unbearable."

• Gareth
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• May 25, 2020

For Major Depressive Disorder "I've been on many antidepressants and desvenlafaxine had the least side affects. Dose increased rapidly until I was on 100mg morning and night. Recently had some anxiety, paranoia and rage issues. Got a referral for a psychiatrist. He started me on taking the 200mg Pristiq in the morning and taking 30mg of mirtazapine in the evening. Increased my issues over the 2 weeks taking this combo. Now on 200mg in the morning as before and 100mg of quetiapine in the evening. My mood has stabilised but my social anxiety has increased (even with a Valium safety net) and have trouble getting back to work. I'm genuinely glad most of you have found peace but I'm yet to find mine- with a marriage hanging by a thread and a 1yo daughter relying on me, time is not on my side."

• ccsk
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• December 9, 2014

For Depression "I have had depression for a long time, sometimes more serious, sometimes less serious. In the past 7 years, I think I experienced a 're-entry shock' going back to the teaching profession in HK. I need to take it once per day. I did not experience any side effects like sleepiness or dizziness. I can perform my normal heavy duties in my workplace. At first, my doctor asked me to take it after evening, but since it will not affect my work and does not need to be taken after meals, I prefer to take it right after I get up, and I can establish a routine for it easily. Soon after I have taken Pristiq, all my negative thoughts and feelings disappeared like a miracle and many people around me commented that I am happier than before."