Last reviewed 2026-04-20 · How we verify

Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine Succinate)

Potentiates serotonin and norepinephrine in CNS through reuptake inhibition.

PRISTIQ (desvenlafaxine succinate) is an SNRI indicated for treatment of major depressive disorder in adults, working through potentiation of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibition. The drug demonstrates linear pharmacokinetics with 80% oral bioavailability, steady-state achievement in 4-5 days, and primarily renal excretion with 45% unchanged drug. Major contraindications include concurrent or recent MAOI use and hypersensitivity reactions, with significant risk of serotonin syndrome when combined with other serotonergic agents. Clinical monitoring is essential for drug interactions affecting hemostasis and CYP2D6 metabolism.

At a glance

Mechanism of action

The exact mechanism of the antidepressant action of desvenlafaxine is thought to be related to the potentiation of serotonin and norepinephrine in the central nervous system, through inhibition of their reuptake. Non-clinical studies have shown that desvenlafaxine is a potent and selective SNRI. The drug does not involve the CYP2D6 metabolic pathway and demonstrates similar pharmacokinetics in subjects with different CYP2D6 metabolizer phenotypes.

Approved indications

• Major depressive disorder

Common side effects

• Headache
• Nausea
• Somnolence
• Insomnia
• Diarrhoea
• Nasopharyngitis
• Fatigue
• Pyrexia
• Dizziness
• Dry mouth
• Restlessness
• Akathisia

Drug interactions

• Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)
• Other Serotonergic Drugs
• Drugs that Interfere with Hemostasis
• Drugs Primarily Metabolized by CYP2D6

Patents

Primary sources

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