Neuro Wellness Spa
Anxiety & Depression Medication Content Writer
Neuro Wellness Spa, California, Missouri, United States, 65018
If you struggle with anxiety , you know that it’s often a daily challenge to be present, find a sense of assuredness, and simply maintain self-confidence. While you might intellectually understand sayings like “overthinking only makes you suffer twice” and “worry often gives small things a big shadow,” it can be challenging to resonate with these sentiments when you’re in the midst of an anxiety surge . You may be considering medication to find relief, and there are several FDA-approved options for anxiety.
However, if you’ve already tried several types of FDA-approved anxiety medications without response, you may start to wonder what other options are available. Your psychiatrist may recommend desvenlafaxine — better known by its brand name Pristiq — which is considered an “off-label” treatment for anxiety disorders , meaning while it’s FDA-approved for depression , it currently lacks indication for anxiety. Despite this designation, prescribing Pristiq for anxiety is not uncommon, unsafe, or ineffective, particularly if you have co-occurring depression.
Here’s an explanation of Pristiq and its effectiveness for anxiety, potential side effects, and key considerations to help inform your treatment decision.
Out of all the psychiatric medications , Pristiq is one of the lesser-known ones, making understanding how this medication works, its side effects, and its benefits particularly important.
What is Pristiq and how does it work?
Pristiq medication is a type of antidepressant known as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and very similar to its parent medication, venlafaxine (Effexor), an FDA-approved drug for anxiety. It works by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin — a brain chemical associated with mood and emotional regulation, sleep, and appetite — and norepinephrine, which is involved in alertness, energy, and the stress response . Through this lens, it’s easy to see how unbalanced levels of both can increase anxiety. Why SNRIs are sometimes used for anxiety
For some, a medication that balances just serotonin levels is enough to provide relief from anxiety , making selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) a favored option. For others, addressing both serotonin and norepinephrine dysregulation with SNRIs is necessary to provide proper symptom relief. With Pristiq being so similar to Effexor, you may wonder why it would be prescribed over the FDA-approved go-to. One reason is that Pristiq isn’t metabolized by the liver, meaning it has fewer drug interactions and has more predictable effects. Another is that Pristiq only needs to be taken once daily, improving medication adherence. Or maybe you have already tried Effexor, and you didn’t tolerate it well, it didn’t provide adequate relief, or insurance coverage for Pristiq is simply more affordable. Another scenario is that it can often be difficult to identify if depression or anxiety are responsible for your impaired quality of life, or perhaps you are diagnosed with both conditions . This is relatively common, as some studies show that 60% of people diagnosed with an anxiety disorder also show symptoms of depression . 1 A medication that targets both can help you find relief from both depression and anxiety symptoms. Pristiq for Anxiety: The Research and Reality of This Off-Label Anxiety Treatment
Just because a medication isn’t FDA-approved doesn’t mean it’s uncommon for it to be prescribed, as it’s estimated that 21% to 32% of medications are prescribed off-label. 2 Why is Pristiq considered an off-label anxiety treatment?
For a medication to receive FDA approval, the pharmaceutical company must submit it through a lengthy and expensive approval process. In the case of Pristiq, Pfizer chose only to seek FDA approval for depression and never pursued it for anxiety. While this regulatory distinction is vital to understand, off-label prescribing is both legal and common in psychiatric practice. Pristiq can still offer hope for treating anxiety, especially when other medications have not provided adequate relief. “Off-label medication for anxiety is common due to the lack of choices that focus on the disorder other than SSRIs,” according to Rica Beck , psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) for Neuro Wellness Spa in Brea . “SNRIs are like a stepchild to SSRIs, and I always focus on SSRIs as a first-line treatment. Pristiq is often a ‘last-go’ treatment that I have noticed in my experience.” Research supporting Pristiq as an anxiety treatment
Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Pristiq for anxiety when used after first-line SSRI treatments. For example, recent research from 2023 found that Pristiq was superior to escitalopram (Lexapro) — a first-line, FDA-approved anxiety medication — at treating specific physical anxiety symptoms such as difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, and muscle tension. This same study also showed that medication adherence was more consistent with Pristiq than with Lexapro, which is important as this indicates it’s well-tolerated, and consistency is fundamental for successful symptom management. 3 However, SSRIs like Lexapro remain the recommended first-line treatment for most anxiety disorders. An earlier study demonstrated the effectiveness of Pristiq for comorbid anxiety and depression when compared to Lexapro . In a randomized controlled trial, 71% of patients experienced at least a 50% reduction in anxiety symptoms, and effectiveness was comparable to Lexapro. 4 Additionally, an analysis of nearly 3,000 patients with depression taking Pristiq showed that they experienced significant improvement in anxiety symptoms compared to placebo. 5 Who might benefit from Pristiq for anxiety?
Your psychiatrist will carefully consider whether Pristiq is right for you based on several factors: Co-occurring depression and anxiety:
When you experience both conditions together, Pristiq’s dual action on serotonin and norepinephrine can address both depression symptoms and anxiety simultaneously. Since it’s FDA-approved for depression, it may effectively treat your anxiety symptoms as well. Prominent physical symptoms:
If your anxiety manifests with significant physical symptoms — such as low energy, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, or panic attacks — Pristiq’s norepinephrine activity may be particularly beneficial. Common side effects that may impact anxiety
When beginning a psychiatric medication, experiencing some side effects during the adjustment period is common. However, if side effects persist beyond the first few weeks or become severe, contact a mental health professional immediately to discuss your options. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of a serious reaction. Common side effects of Pristiq include: Initial increase in anxiety or jitteriness:
During the first few weeks of treatment, increased norepinephrine levels can cause temporary spikes in anxiety and jitteriness, including episodes of acute anxiety. This typically subsides within one to two weeks as your brain adjusts to the medication, with anxiety often improving beyond your original baseline. Sleep disturbances:
Increased norepinephrine can make you feel more alert or activated, which consequently may disrupt your sleep . This can include difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep , or occasionally sleeping more than usual. Nausea and digestive issues:
As your body adjusts to Pristiq, you may experience nausea or diarrhea. If this occurs, try taking the medication at a different time of day or with food. This side effect usually resolves within the first one to two weeks. Dizziness:
As your brain adjusts to increased serotonin and norepinephrine levels, you may experience dizziness, particularly since Pristiq can raise blood pressure slightly. Sexual dysfunction :
Like other SNRIs and SSRIs, Pristiq can cause sexual side effects including decreased libido, difficulty achieving orgasm, or erectile dysfunction. These side effects may persist throughout treatment, so discuss this with your healthcare provider if it becomes problematic. While these side effects can make managing anxiety more challenging initially — especially if anxiety temporarily increases — they typically subside within two to four weeks as the positive effects of the medication emerge. If your side effects remain severe or don’t improve after a few weeks, contact your healthcare provider to discuss adjusting your dose or trying a different medication. Serious safety considerations and black box warnings
Beyond the side effects that can be fairly common, Pristiq also comes with less common but more dangerous side effects, as well as black box warnings — FDA’s most serious considerations that indicate dangerous or life-threatening side effects. Pristiq has one black box warning: it may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents , and young adults ages 18 to 24 during the initial months of treatment, particularly when doses are adjusted. If you are having thoughts about harming yourself or others,
contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline . Beyond the black box warning, other serious side effects are possible, including: Serotonin syndrome
which is a life-threatening condition that occurs when there is too much serotonin in your brain. This risk increases when Pristiq is combined with other medications that increase serotonin levels. Increased blood pressure
that requires regular monitoring. Severe withdrawal symptoms
from discontinuing abruptly — always taper under medical supervision. Bleeding risk , especially when combined with drugs like ibuprofen, aspirin, or blood thinners. Hyponatremia , which is when there are dangerously low sodium levels in your blood, particularly in elderly patients. Mania or hypomania
which can be triggered if you have undiagnosed bipolar disorder . Angle-closure glaucoma , especially in susceptible individuals or those with undiagnosed narrow-angle glaucoma. Seizures
in susceptible individuals. Mydriasis , which is pupil dilation. Worsened liver or kidney function
in susceptible individuals. Additionally, Pristiq is not recommended to be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and you must wait 14 days after discontinuing an MAOI before starting Pristiq, and seven days after stopping Pristiq before starting an MAOI. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. While these serious side effects may seem concerning, they are rare, and most people tolerate Pristiq well. When Pristiq might not be appropriate for anxiety
Pristiq may not be suited for you if you have: Uncontrolled high blood pressure. A history of severe allergic reaction to desvenlafaxine or any of Pristiq’s components. Current use of MAOIs. Moderate to severe kidney disease or liver impairment. A history of seizures. Low sodium levels (hyponatremia). Undiagnosed bipolar disorder. It’s important to be screened for types of bipolar disorder before starting Pristiq, as this medication can trigger manic episodes in individuals with undiagnosed bipolar disorder. Always discuss your complete medical history with your healthcare provider to determine if Pristiq is safe for you. What To Expect: The Treatment and Medication Management Journey
Understanding what the Pristiq treatment journey looks like can help you make an informed decision on whether this medication is right for you. Starting Pristiq for anxiety
Before starting Pristiq, you’ll undergo a psychiatric evaluation to determine if it’s appropriate for your situation. If Pristiq is right for you, most patients begin with a standard starting dose of 50 mg once daily. Your provider may adjust your Pristiq dosage based on your response and tolerability during follow-up appointments. Taking this medication consistently at the same time each day is essential. Most patients begin to notice subtle improvements within one to two weeks, with more meaningful symptom relief typically occurring around four to six weeks. However, if side effects feel overwhelming or don’t improve after the first few weeks, contact your healthcare provider. They can adjust your dose or discuss alternative medications — though you should never stop taking Pristiq abruptly due to the risk of withdrawal symptoms. Ongoing medication management
Regular medication management follow-ups with your prescribing physician are essential for monitoring your response to treatment, managing any side effects, and making dosage adjustments if needed. Keep in mind that while Pristiq can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms, it may not eliminate them. Additionally, research shows that combining medication with psychotherapy provides the best outcomes for treatment , as anxiety therapy helps you develop coping strategies that complement the medication’s effects. 6 Alternatives and Comprehensive Treatment Approaches
Pristiq is not the only option when figuring out which medication works for your anxiety . If this treatment doesn’t work — or you want to try other FDA-approved options first — additional options are available through therapy and other off-label approaches, like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy . FDA-approved anxiety medications
If Pristiq is not the right fit for you, there are numerous FDA-approved alternatives for treating anxiety disorders. The most common first-line options include SSRIs and SNRIs. However, it’s important to note that FDA approval varies by specific anxiety disorder — a medication approved for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) may not be approved for panic disorder, and vice versa. FDA-approved SSRIs for anxiety disorders
SSRIs FDA-approved for various anxiety disorders include: Paroxetine (Paxil):
GAD, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder. Sertraline (Zoloft ):
Social anxiety disorder, panic disorder. FDA-approved SNRIs for anxiety disorders
SSRIs FDA-approved for various anxiety disorders include: Venlafaxine XR (Effexor XR):
GAD, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder. Other FDA-approved medications for anxiety disorders
While SSRIs and SNRIs are typically considered first-line treatments, other FDA-approved medications for anxiety include buspirone (BuSpar) — an azapirone for GAD — and hydroxyzine (Vistaril) — an antihistamine also approved for GAD. Additionally, benzodiazepines such as Xanax , Ativan, and Klonopin are approved for certain anxiety disorders but are generally reserved for short-term use due to their potential for addiction . Anxiety therapy can be as effective as medication for treating anxiety, and research shows that combining medication with therapy produces the best long-term outcomes. 7 Common evidence-based therapy approaches include: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT ):
Considered the gold standard for anxiety treatment, CBT is the most researched form of psychotherapy and has shown consistent effectiveness across anxiety disorders. It helps you identify and challenge anxious thought patterns while gradually guiding you to face feared situations instead of avoiding them. Through cognitive restructuring, you learn to recognize when your thoughts are exaggerating danger and develop more balanced perspectives. Behavioral techniques that are often incorporated into CBT like exposure therapy teach your brain that feared outcomes are unlikely or manageable, breaking the avoidance cycle that maintains anxiety. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT):
While CBT focuses on challenging anxious thoughts, ACT teaches you to accept anxiety as a normal part of life while taking action toward what matters to you. ACT is based on the understanding that trying to eliminate anxiety often makes it worse. Through techniques like cognitive defusion — creating distance from your thoughts — and values-based action, ACT helps you develop psychological flexibility — the ability to carry discomfort while still living meaningfully. Exposure and response prevention (ERP):
Considered the gold standard obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) treatment and highly effective for phobias and panic disorder, ERP gradually exposes you to anxiety triggers while preventing the compulsions or safety behaviors you typically use for relief. By staying with the anxiety without performing these behaviors, you learn that feared outcomes don’t actually occur and that anxiety naturally decreases on its own without intervention. TMS therapy for anxiety disorders
Another off-label treatment option is TMS therapy , which is FDA-approved for depression and OCD , but is not yet approved for anxiety disorders. However, research shows promise for its use in anxiety treatment — particularly when anxiety co-occurs with depression, a condition for which TMS already has strong evidence for treating effectively. 8 TMS works by using magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood and anxiety regulation. Some clinics — like Neuro Wellness Spa — offer TMS for anxiety as an off-label treatment, though more research is needed to establish standardized protocols and confirm its effectiveness for anxiety disorders solely. Making the Decision: Key Questions To Discuss With Your Doctor
As you consider whether Pristiq is right for you, there are essential questions you should discuss with your doctor , including: Why are you recommending Pristiq over FDA-approved anxiety medications? How will we monitor for side effects? Which of my anxiety symptoms are most likely to improve with this medication? What will be our next step if Pristiq doesn’t work for me? Are there any interactions with my current medications? What lifestyle modifications can enhance my treatment results? How long should I expect to wait before noticing improvement? What does successful treatment look like — should I expect complete symptom relief? How Neuro Wellness Spa Can Help You Find the Best Medication for Anxiety
We take a comprehensive approach to anxiety treatment, combining medication options with therapeutic support to provide you with the best possible outcome. Contact us today so we can be with you every step of the way on your path to managing anxiety. FAQ: Pristiq for Anxiety
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about Pristiq for anxiety. Although weight gain is possible with Pristiq, it’s uncommon. Research shows that Pristiq is generally weight-neutral, and weight loss (typically less than 2 pounds) is actually more common than weight gain during short-term treatment. In clinical trials, less than 1% of patients experienced clinically significant weight gain. 9 Which antidepressant is best for anxiety?
Choosing which antidepressant is best for you and your mental health needs will depend on which anxiety disorder you’re struggling with, your treatment history, and other individual factors — what works for someone else may not work for you. However, the SSRIs and SNRIs that are most commonly prescribed for anxiety include Zoloft, Lexapro, Paxil, Prozac, Effexor XR, and Cymbalta.
What is the number one drug for anxiety?
The “best” anxiety medication varies by individual, and determining the right one requires a comprehensive evaluation of your specific anxiety disorder, treatment history, and personal factors. However, Zoloft is consistently the most commonly prescribed medication for anxiety disorders in the U.S., with over 38 million prescriptions in 2020. 10
Is Pristiq suitable for overthinking?
While overthinking isn’t an official diagnosis or disorder, it is a common symptom of depression and anxiety, and Pristiq can help make this more manageable. Additionally, one study showed that SNRIs can be effective at reducing rumination, racing thoughts, and other related symptoms. 11
For more information about our services, or to find out if your treatment is covered by your health insurance, contact our expert clinical team today by completing this form.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Pristiq medication is a type of antidepressant known as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) and very similar to its parent medication, venlafaxine (Effexor), an FDA-approved drug for anxiety. It works by blocking the reabsorption of serotonin — a brain chemical associated with mood and emotional regulation, sleep, and appetite — and norepinephrine, which is involved in alertness, energy, and the stress response . Through this lens, it’s easy to see how unbalanced levels of both can increase anxiety. Why SNRIs are sometimes used for anxiety
For some, a medication that balances just serotonin levels is enough to provide relief from anxiety , making selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) a favored option. For others, addressing both serotonin and norepinephrine dysregulation with SNRIs is necessary to provide proper symptom relief. With Pristiq being so similar to Effexor, you may wonder why it would be prescribed over the FDA-approved go-to. One reason is that Pristiq isn’t metabolized by the liver, meaning it has fewer drug interactions and has more predictable effects. Another is that Pristiq only needs to be taken once daily, improving medication adherence. Or maybe you have already tried Effexor, and you didn’t tolerate it well, it didn’t provide adequate relief, or insurance coverage for Pristiq is simply more affordable. Another scenario is that it can often be difficult to identify if depression or anxiety are responsible for your impaired quality of life, or perhaps you are diagnosed with both conditions . This is relatively common, as some studies show that 60% of people diagnosed with an anxiety disorder also show symptoms of depression . 1 A medication that targets both can help you find relief from both depression and anxiety symptoms. Pristiq for Anxiety: The Research and Reality of This Off-Label Anxiety Treatment
Just because a medication isn’t FDA-approved doesn’t mean it’s uncommon for it to be prescribed, as it’s estimated that 21% to 32% of medications are prescribed off-label. 2 Why is Pristiq considered an off-label anxiety treatment?
For a medication to receive FDA approval, the pharmaceutical company must submit it through a lengthy and expensive approval process. In the case of Pristiq, Pfizer chose only to seek FDA approval for depression and never pursued it for anxiety. While this regulatory distinction is vital to understand, off-label prescribing is both legal and common in psychiatric practice. Pristiq can still offer hope for treating anxiety, especially when other medications have not provided adequate relief. “Off-label medication for anxiety is common due to the lack of choices that focus on the disorder other than SSRIs,” according to Rica Beck , psychiatric mental health nurse practitioner (PMHNP) for Neuro Wellness Spa in Brea . “SNRIs are like a stepchild to SSRIs, and I always focus on SSRIs as a first-line treatment. Pristiq is often a ‘last-go’ treatment that I have noticed in my experience.” Research supporting Pristiq as an anxiety treatment
Several studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of Pristiq for anxiety when used after first-line SSRI treatments. For example, recent research from 2023 found that Pristiq was superior to escitalopram (Lexapro) — a first-line, FDA-approved anxiety medication — at treating specific physical anxiety symptoms such as difficulty breathing, rapid heart rate, and muscle tension. This same study also showed that medication adherence was more consistent with Pristiq than with Lexapro, which is important as this indicates it’s well-tolerated, and consistency is fundamental for successful symptom management. 3 However, SSRIs like Lexapro remain the recommended first-line treatment for most anxiety disorders. An earlier study demonstrated the effectiveness of Pristiq for comorbid anxiety and depression when compared to Lexapro . In a randomized controlled trial, 71% of patients experienced at least a 50% reduction in anxiety symptoms, and effectiveness was comparable to Lexapro. 4 Additionally, an analysis of nearly 3,000 patients with depression taking Pristiq showed that they experienced significant improvement in anxiety symptoms compared to placebo. 5 Who might benefit from Pristiq for anxiety?
Your psychiatrist will carefully consider whether Pristiq is right for you based on several factors: Co-occurring depression and anxiety:
When you experience both conditions together, Pristiq’s dual action on serotonin and norepinephrine can address both depression symptoms and anxiety simultaneously. Since it’s FDA-approved for depression, it may effectively treat your anxiety symptoms as well. Prominent physical symptoms:
If your anxiety manifests with significant physical symptoms — such as low energy, difficulty concentrating, muscle tension, or panic attacks — Pristiq’s norepinephrine activity may be particularly beneficial. Common side effects that may impact anxiety
When beginning a psychiatric medication, experiencing some side effects during the adjustment period is common. However, if side effects persist beyond the first few weeks or become severe, contact a mental health professional immediately to discuss your options. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience signs of a serious reaction. Common side effects of Pristiq include: Initial increase in anxiety or jitteriness:
During the first few weeks of treatment, increased norepinephrine levels can cause temporary spikes in anxiety and jitteriness, including episodes of acute anxiety. This typically subsides within one to two weeks as your brain adjusts to the medication, with anxiety often improving beyond your original baseline. Sleep disturbances:
Increased norepinephrine can make you feel more alert or activated, which consequently may disrupt your sleep . This can include difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep , or occasionally sleeping more than usual. Nausea and digestive issues:
As your body adjusts to Pristiq, you may experience nausea or diarrhea. If this occurs, try taking the medication at a different time of day or with food. This side effect usually resolves within the first one to two weeks. Dizziness:
As your brain adjusts to increased serotonin and norepinephrine levels, you may experience dizziness, particularly since Pristiq can raise blood pressure slightly. Sexual dysfunction :
Like other SNRIs and SSRIs, Pristiq can cause sexual side effects including decreased libido, difficulty achieving orgasm, or erectile dysfunction. These side effects may persist throughout treatment, so discuss this with your healthcare provider if it becomes problematic. While these side effects can make managing anxiety more challenging initially — especially if anxiety temporarily increases — they typically subside within two to four weeks as the positive effects of the medication emerge. If your side effects remain severe or don’t improve after a few weeks, contact your healthcare provider to discuss adjusting your dose or trying a different medication. Serious safety considerations and black box warnings
Beyond the side effects that can be fairly common, Pristiq also comes with less common but more dangerous side effects, as well as black box warnings — FDA’s most serious considerations that indicate dangerous or life-threatening side effects. Pristiq has one black box warning: it may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents , and young adults ages 18 to 24 during the initial months of treatment, particularly when doses are adjusted. If you are having thoughts about harming yourself or others,
contact the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline . Beyond the black box warning, other serious side effects are possible, including: Serotonin syndrome
which is a life-threatening condition that occurs when there is too much serotonin in your brain. This risk increases when Pristiq is combined with other medications that increase serotonin levels. Increased blood pressure
that requires regular monitoring. Severe withdrawal symptoms
from discontinuing abruptly — always taper under medical supervision. Bleeding risk , especially when combined with drugs like ibuprofen, aspirin, or blood thinners. Hyponatremia , which is when there are dangerously low sodium levels in your blood, particularly in elderly patients. Mania or hypomania
which can be triggered if you have undiagnosed bipolar disorder . Angle-closure glaucoma , especially in susceptible individuals or those with undiagnosed narrow-angle glaucoma. Seizures
in susceptible individuals. Mydriasis , which is pupil dilation. Worsened liver or kidney function
in susceptible individuals. Additionally, Pristiq is not recommended to be taken with monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), and you must wait 14 days after discontinuing an MAOI before starting Pristiq, and seven days after stopping Pristiq before starting an MAOI. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits with your healthcare provider. While these serious side effects may seem concerning, they are rare, and most people tolerate Pristiq well. When Pristiq might not be appropriate for anxiety
Pristiq may not be suited for you if you have: Uncontrolled high blood pressure. A history of severe allergic reaction to desvenlafaxine or any of Pristiq’s components. Current use of MAOIs. Moderate to severe kidney disease or liver impairment. A history of seizures. Low sodium levels (hyponatremia). Undiagnosed bipolar disorder. It’s important to be screened for types of bipolar disorder before starting Pristiq, as this medication can trigger manic episodes in individuals with undiagnosed bipolar disorder. Always discuss your complete medical history with your healthcare provider to determine if Pristiq is safe for you. What To Expect: The Treatment and Medication Management Journey
Understanding what the Pristiq treatment journey looks like can help you make an informed decision on whether this medication is right for you. Starting Pristiq for anxiety
Before starting Pristiq, you’ll undergo a psychiatric evaluation to determine if it’s appropriate for your situation. If Pristiq is right for you, most patients begin with a standard starting dose of 50 mg once daily. Your provider may adjust your Pristiq dosage based on your response and tolerability during follow-up appointments. Taking this medication consistently at the same time each day is essential. Most patients begin to notice subtle improvements within one to two weeks, with more meaningful symptom relief typically occurring around four to six weeks. However, if side effects feel overwhelming or don’t improve after the first few weeks, contact your healthcare provider. They can adjust your dose or discuss alternative medications — though you should never stop taking Pristiq abruptly due to the risk of withdrawal symptoms. Ongoing medication management
Regular medication management follow-ups with your prescribing physician are essential for monitoring your response to treatment, managing any side effects, and making dosage adjustments if needed. Keep in mind that while Pristiq can significantly reduce anxiety symptoms, it may not eliminate them. Additionally, research shows that combining medication with psychotherapy provides the best outcomes for treatment , as anxiety therapy helps you develop coping strategies that complement the medication’s effects. 6 Alternatives and Comprehensive Treatment Approaches
Pristiq is not the only option when figuring out which medication works for your anxiety . If this treatment doesn’t work — or you want to try other FDA-approved options first — additional options are available through therapy and other off-label approaches, like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) therapy . FDA-approved anxiety medications
If Pristiq is not the right fit for you, there are numerous FDA-approved alternatives for treating anxiety disorders. The most common first-line options include SSRIs and SNRIs. However, it’s important to note that FDA approval varies by specific anxiety disorder — a medication approved for generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) may not be approved for panic disorder, and vice versa. FDA-approved SSRIs for anxiety disorders
SSRIs FDA-approved for various anxiety disorders include: Paroxetine (Paxil):
GAD, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder. Sertraline (Zoloft ):
Social anxiety disorder, panic disorder. FDA-approved SNRIs for anxiety disorders
SSRIs FDA-approved for various anxiety disorders include: Venlafaxine XR (Effexor XR):
GAD, social anxiety disorder, panic disorder. Other FDA-approved medications for anxiety disorders
While SSRIs and SNRIs are typically considered first-line treatments, other FDA-approved medications for anxiety include buspirone (BuSpar) — an azapirone for GAD — and hydroxyzine (Vistaril) — an antihistamine also approved for GAD. Additionally, benzodiazepines such as Xanax , Ativan, and Klonopin are approved for certain anxiety disorders but are generally reserved for short-term use due to their potential for addiction . Anxiety therapy can be as effective as medication for treating anxiety, and research shows that combining medication with therapy produces the best long-term outcomes. 7 Common evidence-based therapy approaches include: Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT ):
Considered the gold standard for anxiety treatment, CBT is the most researched form of psychotherapy and has shown consistent effectiveness across anxiety disorders. It helps you identify and challenge anxious thought patterns while gradually guiding you to face feared situations instead of avoiding them. Through cognitive restructuring, you learn to recognize when your thoughts are exaggerating danger and develop more balanced perspectives. Behavioral techniques that are often incorporated into CBT like exposure therapy teach your brain that feared outcomes are unlikely or manageable, breaking the avoidance cycle that maintains anxiety. Acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT):
While CBT focuses on challenging anxious thoughts, ACT teaches you to accept anxiety as a normal part of life while taking action toward what matters to you. ACT is based on the understanding that trying to eliminate anxiety often makes it worse. Through techniques like cognitive defusion — creating distance from your thoughts — and values-based action, ACT helps you develop psychological flexibility — the ability to carry discomfort while still living meaningfully. Exposure and response prevention (ERP):
Considered the gold standard obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) treatment and highly effective for phobias and panic disorder, ERP gradually exposes you to anxiety triggers while preventing the compulsions or safety behaviors you typically use for relief. By staying with the anxiety without performing these behaviors, you learn that feared outcomes don’t actually occur and that anxiety naturally decreases on its own without intervention. TMS therapy for anxiety disorders
Another off-label treatment option is TMS therapy , which is FDA-approved for depression and OCD , but is not yet approved for anxiety disorders. However, research shows promise for its use in anxiety treatment — particularly when anxiety co-occurs with depression, a condition for which TMS already has strong evidence for treating effectively. 8 TMS works by using magnetic pulses to stimulate specific areas of the brain involved in mood and anxiety regulation. Some clinics — like Neuro Wellness Spa — offer TMS for anxiety as an off-label treatment, though more research is needed to establish standardized protocols and confirm its effectiveness for anxiety disorders solely. Making the Decision: Key Questions To Discuss With Your Doctor
As you consider whether Pristiq is right for you, there are essential questions you should discuss with your doctor , including: Why are you recommending Pristiq over FDA-approved anxiety medications? How will we monitor for side effects? Which of my anxiety symptoms are most likely to improve with this medication? What will be our next step if Pristiq doesn’t work for me? Are there any interactions with my current medications? What lifestyle modifications can enhance my treatment results? How long should I expect to wait before noticing improvement? What does successful treatment look like — should I expect complete symptom relief? How Neuro Wellness Spa Can Help You Find the Best Medication for Anxiety
We take a comprehensive approach to anxiety treatment, combining medication options with therapeutic support to provide you with the best possible outcome. Contact us today so we can be with you every step of the way on your path to managing anxiety. FAQ: Pristiq for Anxiety
Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about Pristiq for anxiety. Although weight gain is possible with Pristiq, it’s uncommon. Research shows that Pristiq is generally weight-neutral, and weight loss (typically less than 2 pounds) is actually more common than weight gain during short-term treatment. In clinical trials, less than 1% of patients experienced clinically significant weight gain. 9 Which antidepressant is best for anxiety?
Choosing which antidepressant is best for you and your mental health needs will depend on which anxiety disorder you’re struggling with, your treatment history, and other individual factors — what works for someone else may not work for you. However, the SSRIs and SNRIs that are most commonly prescribed for anxiety include Zoloft, Lexapro, Paxil, Prozac, Effexor XR, and Cymbalta.
What is the number one drug for anxiety?
The “best” anxiety medication varies by individual, and determining the right one requires a comprehensive evaluation of your specific anxiety disorder, treatment history, and personal factors. However, Zoloft is consistently the most commonly prescribed medication for anxiety disorders in the U.S., with over 38 million prescriptions in 2020. 10
Is Pristiq suitable for overthinking?
While overthinking isn’t an official diagnosis or disorder, it is a common symptom of depression and anxiety, and Pristiq can help make this more manageable. Additionally, one study showed that SNRIs can be effective at reducing rumination, racing thoughts, and other related symptoms. 11
For more information about our services, or to find out if your treatment is covered by your health insurance, contact our expert clinical team today by completing this form.
#J-18808-Ljbffr