There are 176 ratings for the drug: PRISTIQ in the Askapatient database.

Key to ratings for pristiq: 5-Very Satisfied: this medicine cured me or helped me a great deal. 4-Satisfied: this medicine helped. 3-Somewhat Satisfied: this medicine helped somewhat. 2-Not Satisfied: this medicine did not work to my satisfaction. 1-Dissatisfied: I would not recommend taking this medicine.

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Rating	Reason	Side Effects	Comments	Sex	Age	Time Taken		Date Added
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1	depression, Bipolar 2	I totally fell apart. I had a panic attack every day, so severe I started crying for no reason and could not leave my house. Had previously been on Effexor without these effects. I had my Pdoc put me on Lexapro instead and these effects immediately disappeared. I would avoid this med like the plague. My opinion is that it will be taken off the market in a few years.		M	44	4 days		2/7/2010
1	Depression, anxiety, OCD	50 mg of Pristiq. Appetite under control. Libido and ability to orgasm was restored. (was on Lexapro for years, and my sex life was a joke and my waist line an even bigger joke.) Felt almost human for about a week. Then all of the sudden, I went nuts. Couldn't control my anger, my crying, or my anxiety. I don't know what caused me to snap, but week #2 on Pristiq was hell. Ultimately, my p-doc saw what a mess I was and switched my meds.	If you like fantasizing about your loved ones crying over your embalmed corpse, then this is the drug for you!	F	35	2 weeks		2/1/2010 Email
4	GAD	a very slight headache on day one, plus some insomnia. Take Alprazolam for sleep so that helped.	Day two on this med and I actually feel happier and more positive. My headache yesterday was very minor, not bad enough to be bothersome. I already take sleep meds so the insomnia wasn't that bad either. So far those are my only side effects.	F	44	2 days		1/27/2010
4	Depression, Anxiety	The most notable side effect is lack of interest in sex and difficulty orgasming. I'm only 25, and I have a gorgeous girlfriend, so it can be frustrating, not to mention difficult to explain to her. I did run out once and experienced SEVERE WITHDRAWAL EFFECTS. Apparently, this is not uncommon, and just by googling "Pristiq withdrawal" you can find many sites where other people have wrote about their withdrawal experiences.	This is one of the only drugs that has helped my severe depression. I am not where I want to be with it yet, but it is better than the results (or lackthereof) that I have received with other drugs.	F	25	3 months		1/27/2010 Email
2	Depression; General Anxiety	first 3-4 weeks I felt wounderful. After a full month and a half or so I started to feel worse than before. * Worsening depression * Irritability * Pounding rapid heart rate (even while resting/sleeping) * Horrible sweating * Teribble mood swings * Shaking in hands * Terrible nightmares/dreams * Difficulty waking up * Don't sleep as well as I used to * Constipation * Fatigue	After finally deciding to discontinue this med I experienced... * Brief but very very frequent pulsations/"Zapping" feelings in my head * Still sweating alot * Still having strange and very scary dreams * Still hard to wake up after experiencing strange dreams ( which terrifies me even more) I've only been off of this med for 3 days now. Hopefully these terrible side effects will go away soon. I certainly would NOT reccomend this med to any one specifically within my age group. I'd much rather depend on the Lord to help me overcome my battles than to deal with these side effects. I've never felt this bad.	F	22	2 months		1/27/2010
3	depression/anxiety	none.	This is my first day on this medicine and I am surprised that I seem to have no side effects, not even nausea. It is too early to tell if it is helping or not. I am most concerned about weight gain, since I had that on Effexor. Supposedly this one is "cleaner," so hopefully it won't happen again.	F	44	1 days		1/26/2010
3	Fibromyalgia	I have not had any side effects.	I am taking this along with 450mg of Lyrica. I have had some relief from my daily pain. I was not able to get out of bed & now I'm able to get out of bed at least 3 - 4 days out of the week.	F	36	2 months		1/20/2010 Email
2	Depression	I first started taking pristiq when I told my Gynogologist I was starting to feel down because I was going through the change and was starting to feel pretty blue and she recomemnded and prescscribed pristiq. The first 4 months taking pristiq my depression was gone completely. I could even sleep at night which was good because I couldn't sleep anymore.My dreams were very vivid which was a very cool side effect that I acually liked. The The bad side effects were intense. Headache, blured vision, iching, skin irritation under moles which started bleeding, no interest in sex and when I did have sex I had difficulty having orgasm ( which sucks) Sooo i decided to stop taking after 4 months. You would think side effects would stop but they didn't. The side effects worsened and continued for about 2 months after I stopped. I had head zings and was very dizzy. The worse thing about the whole experence is the reason I started taking prestiq,on a scale of 1-10 about a 4 rating depression.Now		F	53	4 months		1/14/2010
1	depression/anxiety	nausea, inability to concentrate(forgetting names, words very embarrassing), extreme jaw clenching(asleep or awake), headaches, irritability- turning into extreme anger at light speed, weight gain, restlessness, unable to wind down, sex drive has tanked	I have been on Lexapro for 3 yrs, needed to swap due to drug not really working for me anymore, OMG!!! I have only been on this drug for 5 days and I am soooooo coming off of it right now, I HATE IT!! Severe iritability, turning to full blown temper within minutes ( I was NOT like this before!!!!!), jaw clenching that lead to severe headaches, basically I was not myself. I know what everyone says about giving your meds a chance to work but this sucks big ones and my whole life is suffering. My kids are scared of me!!!!! I might fly off the handle for no reason.....thats no way to live. This drug is not for me. I am not even talking to my gp about it, I just know this is the right thing for me to do. You make up your own mind!!!!!!	F	37	5 days		1/1/2010
1	Brain wave disorder--seritonin drop	Severe constipation-totally blocked upper intestine--pain level resembling long-term stage 3 labor. Magnesium citrate, enemas, laxatives did not work. It took a tube procedure to unblock the upper intestine and it occurred two more times until discovered that the Pristiq casing which does not digest but goes through your system as a small sponge the size of a small marshmellow was the culprit in blocking my upper intestine. When taken off the medication cold and quickly, I went through severe withdrawal--severe vertigo, nausea, shakes, sweats, flu like symtoms and feelings of passing out along with crying spells. I still have a bit of hissing in my head and shakes which should subside within the next few days. This is by far the worst medication I have ever taken. I do not usually experience much in the way of side effects and the ones I do have been mild. I took the lowest dosage available. I can't understand why an extended release pill was not placed in a dissolable capsule	I have been on low dose medication for 20 years. When I become ammuned, I have been switched to other medications. Pristiq was the medication from hell. Within six weeks I found myself in the ER three times for a blocked upper intestine. Magnesium citrate and enemas did not work. It took an very invasive procedure to unblock the upper intestine. The pain was as intense as 3rd stage labor. It took three visits to ER with morphine to reduce to pain and lots of colon cleansing to release the blockage. Pristiq is a hard tablet with a casing that swells up like a sponge about the size of a marshmellow that is supposed to be released through your colon. Mine blocked it entirely. It took magnesium citrate, enemas, a tube intervension and then 64 ounces of Go Lightly to finally release all these casings from my upper intestine. Then I had to go off medication and went through the most severe withdrawal with severe vertigo where I could not even move my eyes from side to side, shakes, sweats, flu like symtoms. It took four to five days to return my system to somewhat normal. I still have some hissing in my head and shakes which I hope will eventually subside. I am, in general, a very healthly person with no colon issues and no health issues. I would never recommend this medication to anyone after the last three weeks of pain and withdrawal I have had to experience. I have taken probably seven different medications over the past 20 years and never have had side effects	F	58	60 days		12/30/2009 Email
1	Depression and OCD	Severe depression, suicidal thoughts and mania	Was on Prozac and switched to 50mg Pristiq. The first week of transition between the 2 drugs was great!!!! However, it only lasted a WEEK! My Dr. continued to raise my dosage in an effort to get me back to how I felt the first week however I never got there. He increased me to 200mg (saying that he had some patients on as much as 300mg). He agreed to reduce me back down after seeing worsening results. Though this was a slow transition, I still had severe withdrawal symptoms such as suicidal thoughts, severe depression, worthlessness, mania, etc. As a last ditch effort to feel normal again I opted to go holistic. I also have ADHD and purchased the book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing”(at GNC) to learn more about how to treat ADHD naturally but later realized that Anxiety, Depression, Manic Depression and even Schizophrenia were listed in the book. The book is user friendly and list out the vitamins that you should and should not take and the reason why. It also lists the essential foods that should be eaten and avoided. Example: It states wheat should be omitted completely because it has been linked to depressive disorders. Luckily, I was told of Psychiatrist who also prescribes vitamins (because it helps the body absorb the meds) to assist me in weaning off Pristiq. He mentioned that Pristiq could cause mania. Not good for me because I already had those tendencies. There is question as to whether or not I have a mild case of bipolar however the	F	35	6 months		12/22/2009
4	depression, anxiety	migraine, occasional nausea, dizziness	Began with 25 and then 50mg to mitigate Lexapro withdrawal. Side effects ended as I adjusted to the medication.	M	26	2 months		12/21/2009
1	Depression and anxiety	Anxiety symptoms worsened and became unbearable... I was paralyzed with anxiety while taking this med. My depression worsened and I became suicidal, had to be hospitalized. Anorgasmia and loss of libido was troublesome as well.	I was taken off Pristiq gradually and began Luvox about a week and a half ago... doing VERY well now with the Luvox, not much anxiety at all anymore and my libido is back/no more anorgasmia, feeling hopeful and getting back into life now.	M	37	2 months		12/21/2009
4	Depression	I had almost every side effect for the first week. After 35 days, the one remaining side effect is blurred vision. It is quite alarming and I am debating whether I should stop the drug. I have had almost every other SSRI, and this one is by far the most effective. And, other SSRI's had side effects that forced me to stop. None however caused blurred vision. I am hoping that this condition improves because I do not have any other options in the drug world.		F	56	35 days		12/18/2009
3	Severe Depression	Weight gain, lethargy, short temper/anxious, if I miss a dose within 4 hours I'm feeling nauseous, dizzy, sick like I'm dying.	Lexapro lost its efficacy so I was switched to Pristiq. I'm severe bi-polar and take Lamical also. Initially Pristiq lifted my mood, allowed me to be happy with what was, positive outlook, the doom and gloom was lifted and I felt so much better than I had in years. Unfortunately, I'm not feeling that way now and feeling the side effects. I'm most concerned about the weight gain!	F	47	9 months		12/16/2009
2	Anxiety, OCD, Depression	Nausea, jittery hands and legs, headache, body aches, weakness, loss of appetite, groggy in the mornings. Increasing anxious thoughts.	I wouldn't recommend this med. I'm taking 50mg and it seems each day the nausea and headache feelings gets stronger. I thought I was getting the flu but come to find out it's the med.	F	28	5 weeks		12/16/2009 Email
1	Depression	I would have chosen 0 for a rating - but it was not available... Chest Pain, Hallucination, Paranoia, High Blood Pressure, Depression, EXTREME Anxiety, Panic, Crying, Laughter - Like coming off a meth or cocaine bender - but worse.	I had the worst manic day2 in 19 years on 3 days with this drug. Choosing between prestiq and suicide would be very easy. I made it through with my support system and a extra doses of xanax. I'm glad this drug works for some - but before embarking - READ THE SIDE EFFECTS. It didn't work for me!!! After the effects of pristiq wore off, I felt peaceful, relieved and ready for some good sleep. Depression seemed like a walk in the park compared to this drug - better suited for use in military torture.	M	53	3 days		12/14/2009 Email
4	Depression, Severe Anxiety	Drowsiness, Problems focusing . . . both lasted about three weeks, then lessened. I do not notice either anymore.	I moved to this after my insurance dropped Cymbalta. Pristiq seems to be working sufficiently [in conjunction with other medications]. However they cannot singularly do with Cymbalta did.	F	22	4 months		12/13/2009
4	Depression	50mg - none; 100mg - only on day two but started feeling slight effects after just a few hours of day one. Feeling tired and a lack of energy. Seems like a lot of people are saying that some of their side effects lifted after a week or two. I hope that's the case for me.	50mg helped alot at first (switching from Paxil 30mg which pooped out) then seemed to gradually not help as much. Hopefully the 100mg will hold longer.	M	32	9 months		12/12/2009
3	depression	dialated pupils, severe anxiety, insomnia,mild sexual disfunction	depression has improved, havent had anymore suicidal thoughts but gained a lot of anxiety, i never had it before taking pristiq. if im late on my dose i get headaches. staying on med, hoping side effects go away. glad suicidal thoughts are gone.	M	25	5 days		12/7/2009 Email
2	Depression	Sleeping all the time , no will to do any-thing , didn't feel like even taking a bath!! Better since I stopped taking it, I only took it for 2 1/2 weeks. Man , what a nightmare.	I think this might work for some-one , but not the general population of depressed ( and I mean depressed , like it's life for us , dawl , type folks )	F	42	18 days		12/2/2009
4	depression & anxiety	slight headache for the first few days and low energy. Things are better now.	I've tried so many antidepressants, but Pristiq has been working wonders for me! I feel happier and more positive and my energy is coming back. The only thing that gets me a little nervous is... what if this medication stops working and I'm back to my old sad self again? I have to stop thinking that way. Thanks Pristiq!!	F	43	3 weeks		12/1/2009
4	depression	Hair loss, trouble sleeping, hot flashes, night sweats, jaw clenching	Been taking for about 6 months. My benefits from the drug have been good but the hair loss and jaw clenching is starting to bother me. I have been on other anti-depressants before which didn't seem to help the depression as well as Pristiq. Will probably talk with my doctor about the side effects and see if there is another drup I can take. I didn't realize that alot of the issues I have been having are probably side effects to Pristiq until I started reading the comments on this site.	F	53	6 months		11/30/2009 Email
1	Depression, insomnia	High blood pressure, palpitation, ringing in my ears (tinnitus), dizzines, extreme pain in my joints, dry mouth, apathy, hot flushes	I took Pristiq for a week in conjunction with Cymbalta to wean myself off Cymbalta. At the time I thought it was working great, because I could finally fall asleep and stay asleep all night. So, I told the Dr. that this might finally work!! Boy was I wrong!! After discontinuing Cymbalta my problems began. See the Side Effects I had. I have been off for a week and my ears are still ringing so BAD I just hate it!! Still have somewhat high blood pressure (never had problems with my blood pressure before). I hope these symptoms will go away. And now unfortunately my insomnia is back. I think they ought to outlaw this medication.	F	62	30 days		11/25/2009
5	DEPRESSION, ANXIETY	The first 2 weeks I noticed sexual side effects, but only a few hours after I took it. Less hungry, more thirsty. Nausea was a problem for about 2 weeks, gone now.	The best thing about this medication is that all the side effects have either disappeared or leveled off for me. My anxiety is greatly curbed and depression is much less severe too. I'm able to concentrate on things better and I have more energy. My family has noticed that my temper rarely flares like it used to. Overall the results are great.	F	47	3 months		11/23/2009
3	anxiety/depression	I was nauseated for the first week-	I dont know-I dont notice anything- I think I get a little more irritated more easily? I know this takes awhile to get into yoursystem, but I am still not noticing any difference in mood or energy or anything. I am still awfully down and depressed and am really just waiting for something to happen. I have tried a thousand other things. I was really hoping for a boost in energy, but havent noticed anything. And it is hard for me to get up in the morning. My body is always tired. I hope it works well for you.	M	32	2 weeks		11/22/2009 Email
2	ocd	severe constipation	It didn't help my symptoms much	F	25	3 months		11/20/2009
2	GAD- General Anxiety Disorder	a little dizzy when getting to standing position, gas, constipation. More major side effects is waking after several hours, and sexual dysfunction(Anorgasmia)		M	65	8 days		11/19/2009 Email
4	Depression / Anxiety	Extreme nausea for the first 3 days, constipation for the first week, vivid dreams, increased libido but inability to reach orgasm, slight decrease in appetite, heavy bleeding and clots during menstruation, withdrawal symptoms (shivering, mood swings, dizziness, nausea) with two missed doses	Pristiq (100 mg) is my first antidepressant. I have been taking it for only a short while but feel that it's been helpful so far. I've noticed that I am more motivated and more impulsive. When I wake up in the morning I don't have to talk myself into getting out of bed and immediately start my daily tasks. But the side effects are hard to ignore. I am most concerned with the increased bleeding during my period, which was once very predictable. I did not attribute the change to Pristiq at first but read online comments from at least three other women after it became a recurring problem. I am going to talk to my doctor about this side effect which I could find very little information about and will hopefully be provided with some helpful answers.	F	21	3 months		11/17/2009
3	Depression	I have tried many anti-deps over the last 12 years , I'm hoping this one will really help turn things around. My complaints so far ( ive been on it about 7 days) VERY blurred vision, stomach ache.		F	42	7 days		11/17/2009 Email
3	anxiety/depression/panic attacks	NAUSEA -I am nauseated 80% of the day-	I have tried Prozac, Effexor, Paxil, Seroquel (out of it all day) Zoloft, Cymbalta (hallucinations) Lexapro (weight gain and extreme paranoia), Geodon (night sweats and vivid dreams), Buspar, Wellbutrtin, Vistaril, Neurontin, Xanax...the only thing that helps with the anxiety the way that I would like it to was the xanax, but my current doctor will not prescribe it- I have had bad enough side effects with all of these (esp Lexapro) that I have started another one- Pristiq seems to be working to a minimum, although I have only been taking it for about a week. The nausea is something I have never had a prob with on any med, so it is highly annoying. I will keep it up though. I have been bulimic for nearly 17 years, and the good thing about this drug is that it doesnt make me hungry so I am no triggered in that sense. I dont know what to think with anything. I have been agitated and suffer extreme social phobia and have been in therapy for a few years. I just want the anxiety to ease up a little bit and nothing seems to work for very long, or the side effects just get the best of me. I have heard nothing but good things about this med, so I have a good feeling that it may benefit me in some way. Like I said, my anxiety has taken over my life, and I feel like I am not me most of the time. I just want some relief.	F	32	1 weeks		11/17/2009 Email
1	Depression	My husband took this for a week and then went into a state of mania; he couldn't stop moving,had muscle tremors, couldn't sleep; had hallucinations; extreme sleep walking and talking all night long in an unconscious state; he then got into my car and took out the headlight		M	38	9 days		11/17/2009
3	depression; menopause	dizziness and nausea, sweats,dry mouth -- not good to combine with alcohol -- weird dreams...did make my depression better...		F	52	3 weeks		11/15/2009
3	Emotional disorders/Depression	Hard to fall and stay asleep; awoke 2-3 times per night as if someone turned a switch on on me. Discontinued it, it got worse than before. Dizziness in its prime form.	Pristiq generally helped me stay in emotional balance; well, somehow. It has/had an effect of a box ring. My evil and bad are in diagonal corners ready to start a fight and Pristique keeps them in their corners. It doesn't eliminate them, it just delays or cancels the fight. Nice. However, I am afraid of becoming dependent on this drug. So, I discontinued taking it while having my period (thinking I am on safe ground for a few days or so). Oh, my God! First day I got so dizzy, that I fell on the floor and had to stay there for a while until the Earth was safe to walk on it again. Completely dizzy, not like a hang-over dizzy, but like you feel the gravitation and need to hold on to something. I was standing up only so I can throw up and then was lying on the floor again. At work, in my office. Today is the 4th day and I am still dizzy. However, I had a cafe latte to center myself somehow and be able to perform my tasks at work (haven't had coffee in 2 years). And I cried a river - all these 3 days; can't stop from crying. The evil jumps from the corner and makes me say mean things to my child (I called her Stupid - for the first time). so, Pristiq? I don't know. It does something terrible to my brain. And I need my brain for another 3 or 4 decades.	F	40	23 days		11/12/2009
1	Depression	Major side effect was my severe mood changes.	Found myself getting angry for no real reason. Screaming at my children scared them and myself. I am talking about total rage. Have taken myself off Pristiq and returned to Effexor. Had no problems with that. My children might learn to trust me again.	F	43	5 weeks		11/12/2009 Email
1	Depression/Anxiety	Headaches, weight gain, nightsweats, swollen face and hands, increased depression, jaw clenching- teeth grinding, extreme moodiness.	I've been on several different antidepressants and still have not found the right one. I plan to discontinue the Pristiq as soon as possible. I am having lots of trouble losing weight, I am very moody and not any less depressed. I cannot wear my wedding ring due to the swollen hands. I have incredible heartburn. I am drenched in night sweats every night and clench my jaw so bad that I have migraines the next day. Not worth it at all to me, time to try something new.	F	31	6 months		11/12/2009 Email
2	Depression	clenched jaw, when asleep and awake. irritability escalating to anger for little or no reason, insomnia.	Coming straight off lexapro (it had little effect on me anymore) I tried pristiq for a month. I had headaches from clenching my jaw all the time, which i constantly had to remind myself not to do. I snapped, when before i never did. I was often angry for no reason whatsoever. The insomnia wasn't bad, where on lexapro i could have slept all day and night, i got more done on pristiq. But coffee would have had the same effect on me. This drug appears to be different for everyone.	F	21	4 weeks		11/9/2009
5	depression/anxiety/mood swings	First 3 days, i experienced , euphoria, sleepless nights, palpitations, upset stomach, blurred vision, after that, everything gradually went away, and besides some muscle soreness every now and then, this drug has pretty much turned things around for me in a very good way!		M	42	14 days		11/4/2009
4	Depression	Ringing ears, loss of appetite, inability to orgasm, sweats	While this medication does knock my depression down, the side effects are a little disconcerting... I have noticed if I miss a few days my sexual function is restored without the head zaps and mood swings of withdrawal, my appetite returned, and the ringing stopped. I lave lost weight while on it, which has improved my mindset, so thats a positive in my book..	M	45	2 months		11/4/2009
1	Depression	Good for my depression but side effects were bad. I started having severe leg cramps, heart pounding and heart rate jumping up to 120 from 70 beats several times a day, hand and facial swelling and dry cough. Fatigue. Up to bathroom 6-7 times a night (usually up 1-2 times a night). I quit taking this med after 5 weeks before I had a heart attack!		F	49	5 weeks		11/1/2009
5	severe depression and anxiety	none	Have been on Pristiq for one year now. First 50 mg, now 100 mg. Best antidepressant ever been on - have been Rx'd most of the common ones over 20 years. On Pristiq I do not get to the bottom of my depression and don't cry all the time. Feel like problems are still present, but am able to deal with them better now. Example: suffer from lonliness but am better able to cope with being with myself alone and more interest in other things. don't dwell on it so much anymore. Love Pristiq!!!	F	64	12 months		10/29/2009
4	Depression & Anxiety	Perpetual Nausea, cloudy head, sudden weight loss, disinterest in food.	While I'm happy with how my mood is stabilized and depression is now at a functioning and treatable level, I'm worried about the weight loss. In less than a month I've lost 7% of my body weight. I think this is primarily due to my nausea while taking this medication and I'm hoping it will eventually go away and my weight will stabilize again. While it's nice to drop a few pounds, this seems extreme to me.	F	27	4 weeks		10/26/2009
1	Depression	Pupils were huge, headache, fevor, severe diaherrea, insomnia	Vision was blurry, sunlight hurt my eyes and head. I was very excited to try this new drug but after spending all weekend in bathroom and blurry vision i decided this drug was not for me. I am supprised there are not more comments about dialated pupils as a side effect. I noticed this the 2nd day of taking this awful drug.	M	38	2 weeks		10/26/2009 Email
3	anxiety	Nausea, dry mouth, gas, insomnia, decreased appetite/weight loss, possible heart palpitations	The first 5 days, I had mild nausea which got better daily. By the 5th day or so, it was gone. I can't sleep for more than 4 hours a night; thinking about taking it in the morning instead of at night. Dry mouth (forcing me to drink more water; not a bad thing). Decreased appetite/weight loss - I'm starving at dinner time, but can only eat about half of my food - not an altogether bad thing. Also wake up with sever hunger pangs. Burping and gas getting better with time. My heart goes into overdrive after I eat dinner, but I was having this problem before the medicine (just seems more pronounced now).	F	33	8 days		10/24/2009
2	Depression	Unmotivated, bored, sleepy, weight gain, mentally numb	I have taken 50mg of Pristiq daily for about 4 months to treat my depression. I'm depressed. Furthermore, side effects such as apathy (I just don't feel like doing anything while on Pristiq!), weight gain (23 pounds in approximately 4 months), lack of reaching orgasm, and constant fatigue (after 3-4 hours of ingestion) are unworhty of further taking Pristiq. I've decided to slowly discontinue it.	M	28	4 months		10/21/2009
2	GAD, Generalized Anxiety Disorder	Excessive thirst, aversion to food, no appetite, physical exhaustion/ constant sleeping, lack of motivation to think or move due to exhaustion.	I used to just have anxiety about driving places alone and ect. but now on Pristiq I feel nothing. A total drug induced calm, with no motivation to do anything because I feel like I weigh a thousand pounds and can't lift my body parts.	F	21	7 days		10/21/2009
1	Majjor Depression/BIpolar II, more	Sweats have started (feel like in a sauna), head&stomache upset, irratability, weight gain, difficulty falling asleep, general anxiety not relieved, still feel depressed only lessened. Was at 50mg, now 100 mg each nite.	Not happy with results. Memory has been effected by depression along with other disorders. I began taking Pristiq when first presented for general distribution to abate depression in majority of the population.	F	61	2 years		10/21/2009 Email
1	Depression	I took this medication for depression. I had a terrible time tolerating 50 mg. of Pristiq. My side effects were leg cramps, memory loss, dizziness, increased depression, head zapping every time I moved my head (this was not present every day - I experienced this on a few different occasions, sometimes lasting up to two days), and a feeling of agitation.	I had been on Effexor XR 150 mg. before but experienced some weight gain so my doctor suggested that we switch to Pristiq. Other than the weight gain the Effexor was working well for me. Needless to say I am back on the Effexor as of yesterday. I never write comments but thought it was important to share my negative experience about this drug. My doctor really pushed me to try this and seemed very shocked that I had any side effects. I was relieved to find this site two days ago and to see that I'm not alone. I'm sure this drug will work miracles for some, but it doesn't work for everyone. You just have to keep trying until you find the one that works for you. Good luck!	F	45	25 days		10/21/2009
3	depression	not sure yet??	my second try at Pristiq again. The first time, I saw no difference in my depression so I stopped taking it. Since I have tried so many other meds, my dr. put me back on pristiq to try it again. Not very happy with her but going to try it agian. So I don't know, maybe it will work this time???? We will see.	F	36	5 days		10/17/2009 Email
5	Anxiety/a little depression	Jaw tightening, sweating, decreased appetite, weight loss, slight headache,yawning.	This has been a life saver for me! I've been on Celexa and Zoloft before, and Pristiq has the least side effects for me. I have actually lost weight and have way more energy! I barely ever have to take a Xanax for anxiety anymore! If it makes you tired, the trick is to take it 7 hours before you want to go to sleep. I take it at 3pm- it's perfect, good luck!	F	29	3 months		10/16/2009
2	depression	noticed changes immediately on 50 mg. increased to 100 mg two months ago because depression came back. positive effects are wearing off. extremely depressed. have stopped taking meds.		F	39	7 months		10/15/2009
1	Depression & Anxiety	Massive lethargy. Tired all the time. Loss of enjoyment of life. Loss of sex drive.	I was on Pristiq for 8-months and it ruined that period of my life. It did help the depression but it took away my life. I was tired all the time. Had no energy. Quit enjoying life and my family. Became disinterested in almost everything. Gave up all my hobbies and basically disconnected from life. This was by far the worst 8-months of my life...I missed them and I can't get them back. Pristiq may work well for some but for me it didn't. Please please please...if you are having any of the side effects I experienced talk to your doctor about getting off Pristiq. There are other meds out there and you can be happy again.	M	34	8 months		10/14/2009
4	Severe depression	none	I've been on more antidepressents than I could name here. Pristiq was the first one to work right away. The only reason I would have given it a higher rating if I were on 100mg instead of 50mg, but finance is a problem. I don't cry everyday anymore and my suicidal tendencies have gone way down. Just a tid-bit of info, Pristiq is the same as Effexor except the part (called the Polymer) which causes the majority of the side effects has been removed. It's the same thing for celexa minus the polymer which is called Lexipro.	F	42	2 months		10/13/2009
5	Chronic Major Depression	Decreased Libido	I'm taking Pristiq 50mg, Wellbutrin XL 300mg, & Abilify 15mg. This combination is helping me to feel like normal again. Pristiq is as good or better than Effexor XR with fewer side effects. If you're just starting, give it a chance. It's worth it.	M	49	1 years		10/10/2009
4	depression, anxiety	none, except for significant sexual side effects: difficulty getting / maintaining erection, major loss of sensitivity in penis. Other than that, I tolerated Pristiq very well.	Over the past 15 years, I've tried many, many different meds, e.g. Zoloft, Prozac, Effexor, Wellbutrin, and others in combination with them (anafranil, geodon, buspar). NOTHING has worked as well as my current combo of Wellbutrin XL (300 mg) and Pristiq (100mg) for both my mood and my anxiety. But the sexual side effects are awful. Cialis can counteract the erectile issues but when you're with a woman and you're literally not feeling anything (or very little), it's infuriating and frustrating. I'm dropping the Pristiq for now because I don't think I can maintain a relationship without a sexual connection. But the Pristiq was so effective for me I'd say it's really worth trying, because it does appear that the incidence of sexual side effects does vary. Oh, and BTW, I was on Wellbutrin alone without sexual side effects for quite a while before adding Pristiq to the mix a year ago.	M	41	1 years		10/10/2009 Email
3	Occational Depression/Anxiety	Decreased sex drive, hair changes, irratability, short term memory problems, anxiety still, and ACNE...	Overall ok, but the side effects are very frustrating. I know it sounds strange, but I have naturally curly hair and I have lost over 75% of my hair structure. Sounds minimal to depression, but frustrating every morning. Also, even though I am a mother of a 4 and 3 year old, I have a harder time focasing and remembering things. I feel not like myself anymore. Changing to Celexa to see if these side effects get better.	F	36	10 months		10/8/2009 Email
3	Severe Depression	Inability to orgasm. Lack of appetite.	Took a few days to notice a change, but the dramatic change to my sex life with my fiancée made things even worse if you know what I mean!	M	20	3 months		10/7/2009
5	Depression	No side effects other than immediate relief.	My physician initially prescribed Celexa which provided limited relief. After a "meltdown", he then prescribed Efflexor which was like a prescription to a "black hole". I now believe that hell exists on earth because this is what happened to me while taking Efflexor. After just 1 day of taking Pristiq, I actually began to feel like a human again. I've been taking Pristiq for 3 weeks now and it is truly amazing - I had forgotten what it was like to feel anything close to normal. Thank you Pristiq, for saving me.	F	54	3 weeks		9/30/2009
5	Depression, anxiety, FM, PMDD	In the first 2 weeks, major night sweats, diarrhea, emotional lability, headache	I am now beginning my fourth week on Pristiq 100 mg after switching from Cymbalta 120mg, which I had been on for 4 months. I was nearly out of my mind with anxiety and depression with Cymbalta, and also felt like I had a bad flu for four months with it....not good!! I can honestly say that I feel almost comletely restored to my former vibrant self with Pristiq. It's just amazing how some medications work wonders for some and do nothing for others. Cymbalta was my "drug from hell" and Pristiq is "from heaven". The depth of my gratitude that this drug is avaialble to those who know the excruciating suffering of these terrible illnesses... thank you Pristiq. I will report back if there are any changes! For those of you who haven't found the right med yet, keep trying, and try to persevere through the side effects for at least a month before you give up. My headaches, diarrhea, mood swings ALL GONE. No sexual side effects at all, in fact, my libido is great! I still sweat a lot but I figure that's nothing to put up with in exchange for peace and good quality of life.	M	42	1 months		9/27/2009
1	Mild Depression	no appetite, foggy thinking, edgyness and inability to cope, sweating, insomnia, grinding teeth, depression or no feelings, dry mouth.	I've only been taking this medication for a couple days and I refuse to take another dose. I can't wait for this to get out of me. The symptoms are much worse than what I'm treating.	F	38	2 days		9/25/2009
2	Major Depression, Anxiety, OCD	In the beginning I had urinary discomfort and severe constipation. Then it threw me into an aggressive mania like a demon possessed me or something. This mania made me very angry and impulsive which is the complete opposite of my true nature. Sadly enough, I even became physically aggressive to my husband (he is a true trooper!). Once that subsided, I was just left feeling anxious and on the edge with a positive side of increased assertiveness (something I've been working on for years). I guess the good part is that I'm more empowered to stick up for myself and the depression isn't as severe. I also have bizarre dreams and wake up feeling totally exhausted. My libido has almost been lost completely with difficulty reaching orgasm. One last thing, if I forget to take the Pristiq, I go into a crazy mood swing. Now that I've written that all out I'm left wondering why I'm still on this pill?	Don't know if this is the right medication but too scared to try yet another!! Been on at least 7 psych meds so far. Getting kinda discouraged....sorry if I'm passing it on....	F	24	5 months		9/21/2009
5	Depression/Nerve pain/Mood Lability	None	I have taken almost every antidepressant over the last twenty five years as I suffer from reaccurring bouts of moderate to severe depression. This drug has given me the fewest side effects. I am surprised by the lack of sexual side effects that seem to be the norm for these drugs and am very pleased about that! I did notice quite a big "bump" into a much more happy upswing!! If you are bipolar and not on a mood stabilizer, be careful, as always, if taking an antidepressant,you do not get manic when taking this. I think it is an awesome medication for me. As the summer turns to fall it is a trigger for me to have a downswing, so I am really hoping the Pristiq can help me hang on to the non depressed months I have so enjoyed and keep them going :). Remember you can't tell whether a drug works in a day or two-sometimes when I read these reviews I wonder what is up w/ that? Thanks so much to everyone who shares their thoughts to help others.	F	45	6 months		9/17/2009
3	Major Depression	Ringing in ears,grinding teeth,very groggy in the morning, weight gain	Have been on many antidepressants over the last 20 years. Last was Wellbutrin SR which worked well for a few years, then suddenly my depression returned with a vengence. I tried to "get over it" but my Dr finally decided to switch me to Prestiq (Also the ads on TV seemed to describe me to a T) I agreed. 5 weeks later I frankly don't give a damn about anything, nothing bothers me, which is great. The ringing in my ears is very annoying. I have been on Weight Watchers for years and walk 3-5 miles a day. I journal every morsel & drop that goes in my mouth, yet in the last 3 weeks I have gained 5 lbs. I will give Pristiq a few more weeks, but I have worked too hard to loose 75 lbs, love my skinny self too much to continue with this drug.	F	50	5 weeks		9/13/2009 Email
4	Anxiety / panic attacks	Somewhat sleepy.	I took Zoloft for 16 years and it was no longer working so I switch to Pristiq 50mg. I have been on it for a bout 3 weeks. The first week I felt WONDERFUL. I had a surge of happiness, my sex drive came back with a vengeance (which made my husband happy) and I was floating on air BUT now during this 3rd week I feel sad and get angry with things quickly. However I have not had a nocturnal panic attack and I sleep much better at night since stopping zoloft and taking prestiq. Maybe thats why I dont want to get out of bed in the morning. I am praying for the first week feelings to come back. I will give it another couple weeks and then call my doctor.	F	37	3 weeks		9/10/2009
3	depression anxiety	nausea,night sweats, restless nights, waking several times a night	stop taking had feel woozy for the first 24 hours. hope this clears up. After lipid profile cholesterol up over 230. Need to control that issue but not with another med.	F	45	3 years		9/9/2009
3	Depression, anxiety	Dizziness, increased fatigue, nausea, decreased appetite, suicidal ideation	Original 50mg dosage ineffective, 100mg appears to be improved	F	17	4 months		9/8/2009
4	Migraine, Pain Condition	constipation, mild headache, sweating, dilated pupils	I am very happy with Pristiq. It has taken a month to start working, but it has been worth being patient and waiting for the medicine to kick in. I have not had any major side effects and have not had a migraine in two weeks. I was having them everyday. I also have a history of depression, and my mind is clearer. My fibromyalgia pain is about 50% better, and although I get mild headaches with Pristiq, they are not migraines, and I'd say my migraines are about 50% improved. I plan to continue taking Pristiq, and it has been better than any antidepressant I've ever taken, and the side effects have been much fewer. I hope that this will be a drug other migraine sufferers will benefit from.	F	46	4.5 weeks		9/6/2009
5	Depression, anxiety, PTSD, DID, BPD	Energy levels affected some.	Pristiq has been a huge blesing to me. I've been on most every drug including Effexor. Zoloft was probably the drug that has worked best for me until Pristiq. I have had essentialy zero side effects on Pristiq compared with other drugs. The only possible side effect I am noticing now is a lack of energy. The first two weeks I had an increase in energy. But the past two it has seemed to drop some. I wish I could try taking slightly less than 50 mg. to see if that would help with my energy level but the pills are not supposed to be altered in any way because they are time-released. As far as mood it has helped a great deal. I also feel more balanced and my anger and frustration have significantly lessened. Many of the other drugs have caused weight gain or an increase in appetite and cravings. Pristiq has not done so, in fact I seem to be able to eat pretty much just out of true hunger and not out of emotional needs which is nice. I am very thankful for Pristiq and at least for me there has been a significant difference between Pristiq and Effexor. But one thing I am very aware of - everyone is different. What works for one person can be awful for another. You really have to find what works best for you and that is a process of trial and error. But I would say Pristiq is definitely worth a try.	F	50	5 weeks		9/4/2009
4	Major depression	Within the first week: Fatigue, night sweats, nausea. Constant side effects: Delayed or impaired orgasm. Appetite slightly less.	Overall, Pristiq has improved my depression but not to the point I'd like. Depressing thoughts are suppressed and anger is more easily controlled (things bother me less). DO NOT DRINK with this medication, it will make you very sick, cause vomiting and erratic behavior.	F	23	3 months		8/27/2009
3	Depression	Insomnia, tired dragged-out feeling during the day, sweating at night, short-term memory problems, jittery feeling, occasional nausea/decreased apetite, slight "brain-zaps" when weaning off of it.	I have tried just about every drug out there, from Imipramine to Prozac to Wellbutrin to Abilify, and most recently Pristiq. Prozac worked the best for many years, but just seemed to "fizzle out" at some point. Then began the trial and error of a series of different drugs. I would honestly give each drug a fair shake, hoping that the side effects would diminish and the antidepressant qualities would kick in. No such luck! Some made me fat, some made me sad, mad, manic, sick, sleepless, etc....you get the idea. Anyway, the Pristiq seemed at first to work, but after a few weeks and an increase in dosage I realized it wasn't helping. The strangest thing about this drug for me was trying to figure out what time of day to take it... If I took in the am, I felt zoned and tired all day; if taken at night, I had trouble sleeping. Go figure! Anyway, I gave it a "3" because it did seem to help at first, but after awhile I just started to feel more depressed. I'm off it and back to the Prozac again...for now.	F	45	3 months		8/19/2009 Email
5	Bipolar Depression, GAD	Headache, mild nausea, and mild sexual side effects-All in the first week. Since that first week they have passed and the only side effect I have is complete relief of Depression.	It has been a miracle for me. Tried everything in the book to combat my severe lows of Bipolar II. Finally my psych gave me some samples for this stuff. I was doubtful as I had tried Effexor previously to no avail. After 6 days on Pristiq I woke up feeling like a had some years ago. I am glad to say I am now in remission.	M	19	15 days		8/13/2009
5	depression	Severe diarrhea that won't stop and loss of appetite. First day took it in the evening and couldn't sleep all night. I need to take it in the morning. I have no headaches.	It's really too bad that I'm probably going to have to stop taking it because the diarrhea won't stop. This is the first drug that has made me feel normal, content with my life. I love how I feel but I can't stay out of the bathroom. Even Immodium doesn't work.	F	57	4 weeks		8/12/2009
2	Major depressive disorder	Persistent nausea	I am in Australia and consulted a marvellous institution called the Black Dog Institute who, after taking a complete history and thorough analysis told me Pristiq was the answer for me because I had damaged my liver by taking TCAs for 4 years - they are the only thing that has worked so far, except for Parnate which was a miracle but gave me terminal insomnia. The Pristiq is metabolized through the liver. The Black Dog Institute is govt funded so no reason to push Pristiq but it just didn't work. The only effect it had was constant nausea and tummy ache and perhaps an increase in depression - of a low level, persistent kind, rather than the screaming horrors, if you know what I mean. Might work for others though.They now want me to try Ritalin 5mg and working up - on day 2 and will report.	F	53	3 months		8/8/2009
5	depression, anxiety	Have been on 5 anti-depressants and none have ever worked as well as Pristiq. I feel like I think I'm supposed to feel. have experienced major sweating & headaches, but benefit outweighs that. Have to take every day @ same time, cannot miss a dose. If I miss a dose I get dizzy & nauseous & irritable.		F	31	8 days		8/5/2009
2	Bipolar, chronic depression	Stinging, burning, painful hands and feet. Bloating/gas. Easily aggitated. Aching joints. CONSTANT HEADACHE!	After years of fighting depression and suicide with little help from Effexor I had hoped this may work. It's only been 11 days but the severe stinging and burning in my hands and feet are killing me. I'm used to the aches, pains, headaches that accompany depression and meds, however, I can't stand constantly applying lotion to my hands and feet hoping for some relief from the stinging sensation. Some discomfort may be attributed to the electric shock one experiences with Effexor withdrawal, but it was never this painful.	F	43	11 days		8/4/2009 Email
4	depression	LOUD ringing in one ear, severe gastrointestinal distress	I feel so much better after taking 100 mg for about 8 months now, but am starting to wonder if the ringing in my left ear is a side effect. The Dr says to see an ear nose and throat specialist which i did, can't find a cause for it but it's so loud and always there. Also am experiencing the worst gas and bloating of my life the last few months, i wonder if that is also a side effect as i have not changed anything else in my diet or medications. Please comment if you have experienced any of these two symptoms.	F	41	8 months		8/2/2009
1	Depression	After two days I started to feel sore and week, by day 7 I looked like a Parkinson patient and was having excruciating muscle spasms. Only after one of my friends who is into pharmacology asked me what else I was taking, Elavil. She then told me to look up serotonin syndrome and stop taking the pristiq immediately and to call my doctor the next day. Apparently it can be life threatning to mix the two.		F	21	9 days		7/30/2009 Email
5	Anxiety	Without food: Headache and nautious With food- none	I started on Pristiq after being off and on anti-depressants for my depression and anxiety. I was depressed only due to post-partum, but the anxiety was constant. I always had a tight feeling in my throat and could not make it stop. All day long... Pristiq is the only drug I have found to stop the tightness, but with very little side effects. The nausia is the worst... Have noticed some hair loss (when I brush)and night sweats. Other than that, I feel better than I have in several years. Feel like I'm ME again.... I recommend this.. but really, it's all on how your own personal body accepts the med. You would have to try it to see if it would help... I wouldnt go on all the comments much.. everyone is different.	F	31	4 months		7/24/2009 Email
4	depression	nausea, greatly impared orgasm	Taking 50mg at night. Mood has improved. Orgasm virtually impossible though no problem with erection. I have tried many different anti-depressants over the last 40 years and only Parnate proved effective over a long period, though not recently. I am hopeful about Pristiq.	M	63	3 weeks		7/23/2009
1	depression, anxiety	i have been on pristiq for two weeks. previously was on lexapro. since taking pristiq i feel as though the depression has gotten worse and having some suicidal thoughts. never had that on lexapro. also feeling more anxious, jittery, not sleeping and loss of appetite. all not good things!! i have just called my doctor and am going to talk to him about getting OFF this med as soon as possible. i would definitely not recommend it.		F	60	14 days		7/22/2009
4	anxiety	at 50 mg for 6 weeks low energy. At 100 mg for 5 days serious diarrhea and feely tired enough for a nap at 5pm.	went from lexapro, to cymbalta, then 50 mg of pristiq. The first 4 days felt immediately better,feeling somewhat high and joyous. Then became stable with no side affects. Felt less anxious, but not more relaxed. Started on 100 mg and for the first 5 days have had terrible diarrhea,feeling tired enough to sleep by 5 pm, and anxiety level punched up a notch to where I am becoming less anxious via signs of putting things off that are routine staying busy actions, and acting a little forgetful. I'm not sure of whether anxiety drugs can meet my expectations, but so far I am less anxious and beleiving that, to date, the results are positive enough to continue experimenting.	M	60	9 weeks		7/21/2009
5	Depression	Headache, fatigue, loss of appetite.	The side effects were really bad the first two weeks and then completely gone. I feel 100% better. Energy has returned and headaches are gone.	F	43	10 weeks		7/20/2009
5	Depression	occasionally irritable.	I was very skeptical about trying PRISTIQ because of all the negative comments about it being an "effexor retread". My experience has been that PRISTIQ is superior to effexor, in terms of side effects, and antidepressant effects. Specifically sexual side effects are minimal, and weight gain has been no issue.	M	58	6 months		7/17/2009
2	Depression/Anxiety	Nausea, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, night sweats, impaired concentration, weird dreams, decreased libido, increased appetite	I think I'm going crazy! Been taking this med for 3 months and have been having intermittent episodes of exreme nausea, dizziness, and fatigue. Completely debilitated during episodes. Doc prescribing this med said the symptoms would have presented in the first week and not the 3rd week. Decided to stay with it but symptoms are still occurring intermittently. Have been to other docs to test inner ear because of the dizziness and nausea...they are thinking its the Pristiq. Just started going off and feel awful...can't wait till it's out of my system to see if these problems go away.	F	38	3 months		7/17/2009 Email
4	Depression, Anxiety, PTSD, OCD	Tired throughout the day regardless of sleep hours.	Within the first week I noticed a considerable difference in my level of depression. After 4 months however it seems to have lost some of its effectiveness.	F	39	4 months		7/15/2009 Email
3	DEPRESSION	Was depressed due to problems at work.feel better but have severe insomnia.will see how it goes		M	48	11 days		7/10/2009
3	Depression	Very jittery in the mornings, nervous, foggy feeling.	I've only been on it 2 days so far, but I've been researching and feel like I shouldn't be on it. A lot of people taking it have severe depression, and I went to my doctor just questioning whether or not I was depressed. This medicine makes me feel nervous...maybe I need a 2nd opinion. So far the depression has not changed.	F	24	2 days		7/9/2009
4	Generalized Anxiety and Insomnia	for 1 day at the beginning, I experienced slight nausea. The drug had almost no adaptive side effects. However, although the manufacturer claims the drug is weight neutral, I had a 20# weight gain even though I've maintained diet and exercise.		F	57	8 months		7/8/2009
4	Depression	nausea, frequent yawning, sleep issues, de-sensitized genitals	Had been on Effexor years ago and had very serious withdrawal symptoms so I didn't want to take that again. Pristiq has definitely helped me with the depression (went from 50 to 100mg). The nausea and sexual side effects have gone away, but I am still yawning a lot and am CONSTANTLY fatigued. I can go to sleep without issue but I wake up all night. I can go right back to sleep, but all I'm getting is interrupted sleep-- nevertheless, I don't want to change meds because this has def helped my demeanor. CATCH 22!!!! would recommend, though.	F	36	4 months		7/2/2009
3	Depression	Only been taking for 9 days and the sweating started immediately...day and night sweats! Its horrible! I do feel a little weird but nothing major...the crying has cut down some. I had been on Lexapro which I loved but apparently it wasnt getting the job done. Since Ive been taking pristiq I do find myself jittery...leg shaking always feel the need to move or do something. Ive been getting extremely irritated! And Im not getting any sleep what-so-ever. I know I should wait the drug out to give it a chance to regulate in my body but without any sleep I have terrible headaches during the day and that may be whats causing me to be so irritated...help!		F	36	9 days		7/2/2009
3	Depression	Headache, nausea, dizziness, confusion.	The nausea is terrible. Iam trying to give it a chance to level out but am wondering if that is going to happen. There are also times of confusion-- like once I went to pay cash and could not figure our how many bills and how much change to give. It was a huge mental block and very embarassing. I do have decreased appetite but have not lost weight (which would actually be nice). The nausea actually reminds me of the sick feeling I had when I was pregnant. Yuck! It has helped my depression greatly, so I have felt obligated to stick with it as long as I can tolerate it. Also, I recieved a card when I got the Rx,that when submitted to the pharmacy-- the company pays half the co-pay. That's a nice perk since these types of meds are expensive. I've also had headaches a lot, but I do have a history of migraines. I usually sleep off the headaches. Only time will tell if the all this is worth the side effects...	F		2 months		6/30/2009 Email
2	Depression & Anxiety	Cognitive impairment--memory problems; word & name recall was embarrassing; lack of motivation/focus; Irritability; less social; Withdrawal symptoms on day 3 (ringing in ears, profuse sweating).	Unfortunately I've had to take antidepressants for 20 years now. Pristiq was the 3rd SNRI I tried. I've tried most of the SSRIs & I always return to Paxil. It's many benefits outweigh the 2 side effects I had (lack of orgasm and constipation) Please be sure to research the difference between SSRI drugs and SNRI drugs--very important distinction--and the research states they should not be taken together! Lots of progress with antidepressants in recent years, so hang in there!	F	57	9 months		6/27/2009
1	depression	i only took it for 3 weeks and a month and a half later i still have diarhea from it.		F	40	3 weeks		6/25/2009
4	depression, anxiety	Nausea during the first week or so. Restless legs, vivid dreams, decreased libido, delayed orgasm. If I miss even one dose, I feel it right away. My head feels strange, like it's swirling and I feel sort of nauseous. I also have nightmares if I miss a dose.	This is the first antidepressant I've taken and it seems to be helping. I am more outgoing now and more sure of myself. I have more motivation to do things. However, I do still have suicidal thoughts and sometimes severe anxiety. Despite that, Pristiq does seem to have positive effects.	F	18	5 months		6/24/2009
5	Anxiety/depression	I had all of the side effects in the beginning, loss of appetite, tiredness, waking up alert at 3am, constipation, excessive night sweats, blurred vision. All of the side effects (except night sweats) dissappeared after one month, so stick with it!	I was on Zoloft for one year and I never felt that great and I gained weight, it was not until I got on Pristiq did I feel normal and less anxious again. I recommend it to anyone who suffers from bad anxiety.	F	35	9 months		6/23/2009
4	depression	The first day i experienced nausea and heartburn but that disappeard when I took it with a full meal. I have been on it for 6 weeks now and hands down it is the best experience I have had with anti-depressants.Naturally, I still have many other issues but I am not lying in bed crying and can now enjoy life.I have always had very bad sleeping issues and it hasnt done much to correct that. There are no side effects that interfere with daily functioing and I am very appreciative that my doctor gave me this. Originally he wanted to try me on cymbalta but felt it was over my head financally.		F	47	7 weeks		6/21/2009 Email
1	depression	weight gain (40 pounds in 6 months) constipation; vivid dreaming; incomplete sleep; exhaustion; increased heart rate; lossof mood; affect changes; no sex drive; no desire for personal relationship; isolation; despair; crying and saddness	abrupt withdrawl d/t loss of healthcare benefits; hallucinatory dreams; unsettling feeling; insomnia; leg cramps; terrible gastrointestinal disturbances; terrible nausea; irritability. I a m off 4 days now. Does anyone know how long this will last>? I thought I would take myself to the ER last night for the hallucinations and nightmares. I was on 150 mgs daily times several months, before that, effexor, before that, lexapro..........I hate all of them	F	47			6/19/2009
4	anxiety	nausea in the beginning, now only side effect is sweating ALOT when i sleep	i've been on almost every antidepressant out there and so far this one has worked the best for me. other than the terrible sweating at night there aren't any side effects for me. i am able to enjoy myself without constant fear of....well everything. the only problem is when i forget to take a pill i'm in BAD shape! withdraw happens the day of your first missed dose so i make sure to keep them with me all the time.	F	25	1 years		6/11/2009
2	MDD, PMDD	Extreme sedation when taking it in the morning, insomnia when taking it at night. Felt zonked out most of the time. Near complete loss of libido. Blurred vision. Mild nausea and fluctuations in appetite. Heart palpitations. Constantly felt overheated, like I had a fever.	I'm extremely sensitive to side effects from most of these medications. I did notice an improvement in my mood, but the side effects did not go away with time on this drug. I was encouraged by the fact that I was able to take a full dose for almost three weeks, though--I'm usually not able to stay on a quarter dose of anything more than a day or two! Also, it really did reduce the symptoms of PMDD significantly. Too bad the side effects didn't go away.	F	46	18 days		6/7/2009 Email
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Key to ratings: 5-Very Satisfied: this medicine cured me or helped me a great deal. 4-Satisfied: this medicine helped. 3-Somewhat Satisfied: this medicine helped somewhat. 2-Not Satisfied: this medicine did not work to my satisfaction. 1-Dissatisfied: I would not recommend taking this medicine.

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