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Desvenlafaxine

Information about Desvenlafaxine

Desvenlafaxine Uses

Desvenlafaxine is used in the treatment of depression.

How Desvenlafaxine works

Desvenlafaxine works by increasing the levels of chemical messengers (serotonin and noradrenaline), natural substances in the brain that help maintain mental balance.

Common side effects of Desvenlafaxine

Anxiety, Constipation, Decreased appetite, Dizziness, Increased sweating, Insomnia (difficulty in sleeping), Nausea1a, Sexual dysfunction, Vomiting

CONTENT DETAILS

Written By

Dr. Swati Mishra

BDS

Reviewed By

Dr. Varun Gupta

MD (Pharmacology), MBBS

Last updated

20 Feb 2020 | 10:31 AM (UTC)

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Available Medicine for Desvenlafaxine

Expert advice for Desvenlafaxine

Desvenlafaxine helps in treating depression and anxiety.
It may also be used to treat nerve pain from diabetes and some other forms of chronic pain.
It may take 2 to 4 weeks for Desvenlafaxine to start working. Keep taking it as prescribed.
It may cause dizziness and sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
Avoid consuming alcohol when taking Desvenlafaxine as it may cause excessive drowsiness and increase the risk of liver damage.
It may cause an increase in blood pressure, especially during the first month of treatment. Monitor your blood pressure regularly.
It may cause a sensation of restlessness, especially when you first start taking it. Inform your doctor if this happens to you.
Talk to your doctor if you notice sudden mood changes or develop suicidal thoughts.
Do not stop taking the medication suddenly without talking to your doctor.

Frequently asked questions for Desvenlafaxine

Desvenlafaxine

Q. How long does it take for Desvenlafaxine to work?

The symptoms of depression like change in appetite and sleep patterns may show improvement within 1-2 weeks of starting Desvenlafaxine. However, it may take about 5-6 weeks to see the full benefits of Desvenlafaxine.

Q. Is Desvenlafaxine good for anxiety?

It has been shown to be effective in relieving symptoms of anxiety, though it is not approved for anxiety. It is used in anxiety disorders only when advised by the doctor.

Q. What time of the day is best to take Desvenlafaxine?

Desvenlafaxine can be taken either in the morning or in the evening. For best results, take this medicine at the same time each day. This will also help you remember to take it.

Q. Can Desvenlafaxine be cut?

Desvenlafaxine should be swallowed whole with water. It should not be cut, chewed, crushed or dissolved. Take it exactly as directed by your doctor.

Q. How can Desvenlafaxine help treat depression?

Desvenlafaxine belongs to a class of medicines known as serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Serotonin and norepinephrine are chemical messengers in the brain which help maintain mental balance. Desvenlafaxine works by increasing the levels of these two hormones in the brain.

Q. Will I gain weight while taking Desvenlafaxine?

Weight gain may occur with Desvenlafaxine, though not in everyone. In case you notice weight gain after taking Desvenlafaxine, consult your doctor or a nutritionist. Take a low calorie food, including more vegetables and fruits in your diet and exercise regularly.

Q. Will Desvenlafaxine affect my sex drive?

Taking Desvenlafaxine may cause a decrease in sexual desire and ability. It may also cause a delay in orgasm and ejaculation and sometimes ejaculation failure. Discuss with your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms while taking Desvenlafaxine.