Side Effects of Desvenlafaxine

In clinical studies that documented the possible side effects of desvenlafaxine, nausea, dizziness, and dry mouth were the most commonly reported problems. Other less common side effects (occurring in less than 2 percent of people) included yawning, hot flashes, and nosebleeds. While most desvenlafaxine side effects are minor, some may require immediate medical attention, including high fever, hallucinations, and high blood pressure.

 

Side Effects of Desvenlafaxine: An Introduction

As with any medicine, side effects are possible with desvenlafaxine (Pristiq™); however, not everyone who takes the drug will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider.
 
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with desvenlafaxine. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of desvenlafaxine side effects with you.)
 

Side Effects of Desvenlafaxine to Report

Some side effects with desvenlafaxine, while occurring infrequently, are potentially serious and should be reported immediately to your healthcare provider. These include but are not limited to:
 
  • Suicidal thoughts or behavior (see Depression and Suicide)
  • Anxiety, agitation, or panic attacks
  • Hostility or aggressiveness
  • Engaging in unusual or dangerous activities
  • Restlessness or inability to sit still
  • Extreme elation or feeling of happiness that may switch back and forth with a depressed or sad mood
  • Other unusual changes in behavior
  • Hallucinations
  • Fast heart rate
  • Feelings of a rapidly or forcefully beating heart (known as heart palpitations)
  • Seizures
  • A high fever
  • High blood pressure (hypertension)
  • Easy bruising or bleeding
  • Low sodium levels in the blood (hyponatremia)
  • Signs of an allergic reaction, including:
 
    • Unexplained rash
    • Hives
    • Itching
    • Unexplained swelling
    • Wheezing
    • Difficulty breathing or swallowing.
 
(Side Effects of Desvenlafaxine Continued: Page 2)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;