Desvenlafaxine is the generic equivalent of Pristiq®. This drug only comes in the form of extended-release tablets.

By law, a generic drug must be the same as its brand name counterpart in terms of active ingredient, dosage, safety, effectiveness, strength, stability, and quality. A generic may, however, differ in its inactive ingredients (i.e. flavoring, fillers, and preservatives).

Desvenlafaxine is FDA approved for the treatment of:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD) or depression

Desvenlafaxine may also be used off-label for:

• Hot flashes during menopause

• Generalized anxiety

• Social anxiety

• Panic attacks

Desvenlafaxine is an SNRI (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor). It works by blocking the brain’s absorption of norepinephrine and serotonin, “feed good” chemicals in your brain. The end result? An increased level of norepinephrine and serotonin in your brain, which is thought to improve mood and pain.

The most common side effects of desvenlafaxine include:

• Nausea/vomiting

• Dizziness

• Trouble sleeping

• Tiredness

• Excessive sweating (hyperhidrosis)

• Constipation

• Decreased appetitie

• Anxiety

• Sexual dysfunction in males

• Decreased sex drive

• Dry mouth

Side effects may improve over time as your body adjusts to the medicine.

This list doesn’t represent all possible side effects (or serious side effects) of desvenlafaxine. If you’re experiencing any ongoing, bothersome side effect(s), tell your healthcare provider right away.

If you’d like to learn more, speak with your doctor or pharmacist. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) also has a helpful medication guide for desvenlafaxine here.

Desvenlafaxine ER (Pristiq®) does come with serious warnings. These include:

• Increased risk of suicidal thoughts or actions*

• Serotonin syndrome—a rare, but potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when there’s too much serotonin in the brain

• High blood pressure or changes in blood pressure—must be monitored periodically

• Increased risk of bleeding, bleeding problems

• Angle-closure glaucoma

• Manic episodes or hypomania in patients with bipolar disorder

• Risk of high cholesterol and triglyceride levels

• Withdrawal symptoms—abrupt discontinuation of treatment can cause nausea, anxiety, confusion, and headache

• Seizure

• Lung disease and pneumonia

If any of the above concern you, speak with your doctor or pharmacist about your perceived risk and other treatment options that exist.

*This warning is a boxed warning. A boxed warning is the most serious type of medication warning assigned by the FDA.