Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) is a strong SNRI (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor) antidepressant that helps manage major depressive disorder and menopausal hot flashes. The medication must be consumed as an extended-release tablet once each day, adhering to the prescribed dosages to prevent serious side effects.

Improper use of Pristiq can result in dependence and addiction, so it is essential to use the medication with the careful oversight of a prescribing doctor. Moreover, stopping Pristiq use suddenly may result in severe physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms.

Withdrawals from Pristiq must be carefully treated under a medically supervised Pristiq detox. Here at Gratitude Lodge, we provide the best resources and treatment for overcoming Pristiq withdrawals and managing the side effects of stopping Pristiq.

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What Is Pristiq?

Pristiq, a brand name for desvenlafaxine, is an FDA-approved serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) available in extended-release oral tablet form for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). SNRIs are a class of drugs that elevate the concentrations of two substances (serotonin and norepinephrine) in the brain, uplifting mood.

The medication is additionally prescribed off-label for hot flashes linked to menopause and for women who face especially challenging symptoms associated with their menstrual cycle.

Pristiq received FDA approval for marketing in 2007 for the management of depressive disorders. The US patent expired in 2017, but Pfizer filed a new drug application for an extended-release formulation of desvenlafaxine named “Prism,” aiming to replace it with a patent that, when approved, will not expire until 2027.

Pristiq was removed from European markets for reasons that have not been disclosed. Numerous generic versions are available today. Moreover, due to the documented statistics on suicidality from numerous clinical trials both prior to and following the drug’s initial approval, Pristiq is not authorized for prescription to children, teenagers, or young adults under 25 years old.

What Is Pristiq Withdrawal Like?

Pristiq withdrawal describes the collection of symptoms that might arise when an individual stops or reduces their usage of Pristiq following extended treatment. Abruptly halting the medication might result in intensified withdrawal symptoms and could potentially exacerbate the underlying condition.

Pristiq Withdrawal Symptoms

The withdrawal symptoms Pristiq causes can be classified as part of antidepressant discontinuation syndrome (ADS), which encompasses a range of emotional and physical symptoms that arise when antidepressants are suddenly stopped or their dosage is reduced.

Symptoms of Pristiq withdrawal can differ in intensity and length based on aspects like the person’s dosage, how long they’ve used Pristiq, and their body’s sensitivity to medication changes. The more extended the use of Pristiq, the greater the likelihood of experiencing withdrawal.

Symptoms of Pristiq withdrawal include:

• Insomnia
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Changes in your mood
• Nausea
• Tinnitus (ringing or other noise in your ears)
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Tremor
• Seizures and cramps
• Headache
• Low level of physical or mental energy
• Abnormal dreams
• Sweating
• Feeling pins and needles or having electric shock sensations also known as brain zaps
• Anxiety
• Feeling irritable or agitated
• Suicidal thoughts and behaviors
• Coordination impairment

Pristiq Withdrawal Timeline

Many of you want to know how long does it take to detox from Pristiq? Establishing a tentative timeline for Pristiq withdrawal is vital for planning to discontinue its use. The length of time can differ greatly from one individual to another depending on variables like dosage, length of usage, and personal physiology.

Typically, symptoms appear within two to four days following the discontinuation of the drug. Here is an average timeline of Pristiq withdrawal:

One to Three Days

Early withdrawal signs may appear, such as anxiety, irritability, and dizziness.

One to Two Weeks

Symptoms frequently reach their highest intensity during this time and typically consist of headaches, nausea, sleeplessness, and symptoms resembling the flu.

Two to Four Weeks

Symptoms slowly diminish in intensity. Certain patients might continue to have mood fluctuations, cognitive fog, and tiredness.

One to Three Months

The majority of intense withdrawal symptoms diminish. Nonetheless, certain patients might still face mild symptoms like infrequent dizziness and changes in mood.

Three to Six Months and Above

Some people may have lingering symptoms, such as slight cognitive difficulties and mood changes. On rare occasions, symptoms might persist for a longer duration, necessitating further medical assistance.

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Why Does Pristiq Abuse Cause Withdrawal?

An SNRI medication impacts two kinds of chemicals that serve as transmitters in the brain and central nervous system.

One of these is serotonin, a neurochemical that regulates aspects such as mood, sexual function, digestion, memory, and numerous other health functions. Serotonin functions as an inhibitory substance that helps ease the fight or flight reactions, allowing these actions to occur.

The other neurochemical influenced by SNRI medications is norepinephrine, which serves as a direct precursor to adrenaline, the neurotransmitter responsible for the fight-or-flight response. Norepinephrine contributes to mental clarity and learning.

Pristiq functions by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin and norepinephrine, making these neurotransmitters more accessible and available to the brain. This change aids in enhancing mood, emotional stability, and general mental well-being.

Nonetheless, the brain may adapt to this synthetic equilibrium, potentially resulting in the withdrawal symptoms of Pristiq if someone is getting off Pristiq suddenly without tapering.

What Is Detox for Pristiq Like?

Detox from Pristiq and tackling Pristiq withdrawal begins by seeking medical supervision. A healthcare provider can develop a tailored tapering strategy to slowly lower the dose, reducing withdrawal impacts and facilitating a safer adjustment.

Rehab Options

Based on the level of Pristiq addiction, people might explore either inpatient or outpatient rehabilitation options. Inpatient rehabilitation delivers round-the-clock medical and therapeutic assistance in a controlled setting, whereas outpatient rehabilitation grants flexibility to individuals who are able to participate in therapy sessions while staying at home.

In addition, therapeutic approaches like CBT (cognitive-behavioral therapy) and DBT (dialectical behavior therapy) may help in addressing Pristiq addiction. These treatments assist people in recognizing and altering detrimental thought patterns and behaviors linked to addiction, enhancing coping abilities, and cultivating healthier methods to handle stress and emotions.

Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT)

In certain situations, healthcare professionals might suggest MAT to address Pristiq withdrawal and dependence. MAT includes the use of drugs such as anti-anxiety and pain medication to ease withdrawal symptoms and decrease cravings, simplifying the recovery journey.

Holistic Therapies

Holistic therapies like yoga, meditation, art therapy, and mindfulness techniques can enhance conventional treatment approaches for Pristiq addiction. These methods emphasize general well-being and can encourage relaxation, lessen stress, and enhance self-awareness.

What Happens After Pristiq Detox?

Overcoming Pristiq addiction and detoxing from Pristiq is a lifelong process. Ongoing care and aftercare initiatives are essential for sustaining sobriety and avoiding relapse. These programs might involve continuous therapy, regular check-ins with healthcare professionals, and engagement in support groups.

Engaging family members in the treatment journey can be advantageous for both the individual recovering and their relatives. Family therapy can enhance communication, tackle family dynamics, and offer support to create a healthier and more nurturing environment for recovery.

Pristiq Withdrawal FAQs

How long do Pristiq withdrawals last?

The length of withdrawal from Pristiq can differ greatly from one individual to another depending on factors like dosage, length of usage, and personal physiology. Typically, symptoms manifest within two to four days following the discontinuation of the medication and may last for weeks or months depending on the severity of drug abuse.

What is the safest method to discontinue Pristiq?

The safest method to discontinue Pristiq is to adhere to a gradual tapering plan with the support of a healthcare provider. Suddenly stopping Pristiq can cause intense withdrawal effects, so it’s important to gradually lower the dosage to allow the brain to adapt to the alterations.

Is Pristiq classified as a controlled substance?

No, Pristiq is not classified as a controlled substance. Controlled substances are medications that are prescribed and distributed in accordance with federal regulations. These regulations assist in guaranteeing that specific medications are administered safely to individuals since these substances can occasionally be abused.

Pristiq is part of a group of antidepressants known as serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Antidepressants do not create effects that would lead to their misuse, which is why they are not classified as controlled substances.

What are the symptoms of withdrawal from Pristiq?

Symptoms of Pristiq withdrawal may differ from one person to another and depend upon the strength and duration of drug use. These usually include insomnia, diarrhea, vomiting, changes in your mood, confusion and dizziness, anxiety, seizures, and headache.

Get Help for Pristiq Addiction at Gratitude Lodge

At Gratitude Lodge, we provide focused outpatient care for addiction to prescription drugs, as well as a range of other addictions. Our extensive treatment programs aim to offer the support and framework essential for individuals to attain enduring recovery.

At Gratitude Lodge, our prescription drug addiction treatment programs offer various holistic and evidence-based approaches, providing personalized care for every client. We provide various treatment options such as MAT, psychotherapy, counseling, and holistic approaches.

If you or a loved one is struggling with prescription drug addiction, take the first step toward recovery—call admissions at 844-576-0144 today.

Sources

1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK534829/
2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1272349/
3. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/9219493/
4. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/going-off-antidepressants