Desvenlafaxine: uses, side effects and precautions

This SNRI-type drug is useful in the treatment of depressive symptoms.

Currently, a large number of Antidepressant drugs are marketed for the treatment of psychological disorders. antidepressant drugs are currently marketed for the treatment of psychological disorders.. However, not all of them are equally effective in different cases. For this reason, it is necessary to have a wide range of medications.

In the case of desvenlafaxine, it has emerged as a very effective drug for certain depressive and depression disorders. for certain depressive disorders and of anxious symptomatology; being effective, safe and well tolerated by the people who consume it.

What is desvenlafaxine?

The desvenlafaxine, popularly marketed under the name of Pristiqdesvenlafaxine, is an antidepressant drug that is categorized within the group of Selective Serotonin and Noradrenaline Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRIs).

To be more precise, desvenlafaxine, is a synthetic derivative of the main metabolite of venlafaxine, another SNRI antidepressant.another SNRI antidepressant.

The main function of desvenlafaxine is to inhibit noradrenaline and serotonin transporters, thus exerting an effect on the levels of these two neurotransmitters, which have a great implication in the regulation of people's mood.

In what disorders is it prescribed?

As with other medications with antidepressant effects characteristic of this category, desvenlafaxine desvenlafaxine has numerous applications in disorders such as major depressive disorder, anxiety disorders and the treatment of depression.anxiety disorders and the treatment of neuropathic pain.

In addition, it has been established as the first non-hormonal treatment for the emotional symptomatology typical of the menopausal stage.

1. Major depressive disorder

Major depressive disorder is a mood disorder that is distinguished by the fact that the individual experiences feelings of sadness in an invasive and perseverative manner.. As well as feelings of anger, frustration, low self-esteem and a loss of interest in everything that was previously pleasurable.

In addition, this symptomatology must take place during a long period of time and interfering in most aspects of life.

2. Anxiety disorders

The anxiety disorders are a group of different emotional affections that are characterized by provoking in the person feelings of fear and pathological anxiety.

Depending on the severity of the disorder or the patient's condition, the emotions characterizing anxiety disorders can range from a mere sensation of nervousness to panic attacks..

3. Neuropathic pain

The pain of neuropathic origin is provoked by a pathological activity of the nervous systemwhich can present itself in two different ways: either by sending painful signals without there being a real stimulus that causes them, or by interpreting common sensory stimuli as very painful.

4. Menopause

The hormonal changes associated with the menopause can cause in women a series of psychological symptoms that affect, among many other things, the affecting, among many other things, their mood.

These menopausal symptoms include changes in mood or state of mind, anxious feelings or symptoms and irritability. Accompanied by insomnia, alterations in sexual desire or lack of concentration.

How is it administered?

Desvenlafaxine is marketed in the form of extended-release tablets to be taken orally. to be taken orally. However, it is essential to take it only under medical prescription, and following the instructions given to the letter. The following are the indications that are usually followed, but there are exceptions.

The usual dose is one tablet per day, which should be taken every day and at approximately the same time. It can be taken with food or water in most cases. However, the patient should not split it, return it or chew it, but swallow it whole.

It is absolutely necessary for the patient to follow his doctor's instructions for administration. This means that the dosage cannot be changed taking more than recommended or more frequently, as this may have serious consequences for the patient's health.

It may take a variable period of time before the patient begins to perceive the effects of desvenlafaxine. In spite of this, it is imperative that the patient does not stop taking the medication. In the same way, he/she should not stop taking it even if he/she perceives that he/she already feels well.

The reason is that abrupt withdrawal of this drug can cause withdrawal symptoms.. These symptoms include dizziness, nausea, feelings of anxiety, fatigue and sleep problems among many others.

At the end of the treatment, the doctor will proceed to gradually reduce the doses in order to minimize the effects mentioned above.

What are the side effects?

Like many other antidepressant drugs, desvenlafaxine has a series of side effects undesirable side effects which can be divided into non-serious side effects and serious side effects.

In case the patient experiences any kind of non-serious side effects persistently, it is advisable to contact his physician. Whereas, if you experience any of the serious side effects, it is necessary to inform the physician as soon as possible.

Non-serious side effects

• Dizziness.
• Blurred vision and dilated pupils.
• Feeling of fatigue.
• Dry mouth.
• Nightmares.
• Tremors.
• Drowsiness.
• Problems in urination.
• Alterations in desire and sexual sexual performance.
• Numbness or burning sensation in some body areas.

Serious side effects

These are the serious side effects of desvenlafaxine.

• Skin problems such as rash, hives or swelling.
• Breathing problems..
• Heart rhythm disturbances.
• Fever.
• Coughing fits.
• Loss of consciousness.
• Convulsions.
• Hallucinations.
• Concentration and memory problems.
• Feeling of confusion.
• Muscle weakness.
• diarrhea
• Vomiting.
• Lack of coordination.
• fainting

What precautions should be taken?

Before starting desvenlafaxine, patients should inform the medical professional about possible personal characteristics or habits that could interfere with the effects of the drug. For example, any allergies, illnesses or special health conditions in which they find themselves.. In addition, it is also necessary for the practitioner to be aware of any medications, vitamin supplements or natural compounds you are taking.

The sedative effects of desvenlafaxine may be increased by the consumption of alcohol.Therefore, the patient should take special caution in this regard.

These sedative effects may also affect driving and the operation of heavy machinery, so it is recommended that these activities not be performed until the patient is sure of the effects of the medication.

Finally, it has been demonstrated that desvenlafaxine may cause some health problems in newborn children when it has been consumed when taken during the last months of pregnancy. Therefore, it is necessary for the physician to be aware of whether the patient is pregnant or intends to become pregnant, and only administer it in cases where it is absolutely necessary.