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Pristiq
desvenlafaxine succinate · Tablet, Extended Release
Overview
Active ingredients
Source: NDC DirectoryForms, strengths and routes
Source: NDC DirectoryPharmacologic classes are listed in the class section below.
Pharmacologic class
Source: NDC Directory| Class | Type | Browse |
|---|---|---|
| Cytochrome P450 2D6 Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 72 members |
| Norepinephrine Uptake Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 44 members |
| Serotonin Uptake Inhibitors [MoA] | MoA | All 73 members |
| Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor [EPC] | EPC | All 26 members |
Regulatory status
Source: Drugs@FDANDC Directory| Product | Trade name | Form | Strength | Ingredient | Status | TE | Flags |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 021992-001 | PRISTIQ | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | DESVENLAFAXINE SUCCINATE | Prescription | AB | RLD | |
| 021992-002 | PRISTIQ | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | DESVENLAFAXINE SUCCINATE | Prescription | AB | RLD RS | |
| 021992-003 | PRISTIQ | TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE | DESVENLAFAXINE SUCCINATE | Prescription | AB | RLD |
Therapeutic equivalence
Source: Orange BookWhat this rating means: Therapeutically equivalent — bioequivalence demonstrated by in vivo or in vitro testing
Codes beginning with “A” indicate products the FDA considers therapeutically equivalent. Codes beginning with “B” indicate bioequivalence has not been established. See methodology.
Patents and exclusivity
Source: Orange Book| Patent | Expires | Product | Substance | Use code | Submitted |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8269040 | July 5, 2027 | 001 | Yes | — | |
| 8269040 | July 5, 2027 | 002 | Yes | — | |
| 8269040 | July 5, 2027 | 003 | Yes | February 2, 2015 |
Approval history
Source: Drugs@FDA| Type | No. | Action | Status | Date | Review |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Supplement | 51 | Labeling | Approved | August 18, 2023 | Standard |
| Supplement | 47 | Labeling | Approved | November 10, 2021 | Standard |
| Supplement | 48 | Labeling | Approved | September 20, 2021 | 901 Required |
| Supplement | 42 | Efficacy | Approved | February 6, 2018 | Standard |
| Supplement | 46 | Labeling | Approved | December 19, 2017 | 901 Required |
| Supplement | 44 | Labeling | Approved | January 4, 2017 | 901 Required |
| Supplement | 43 | Labeling | Approved | August 26, 2016 | 901 Required |
| Supplement | 41 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | March 16, 2016 | Standard |
| Supplement | 39 | Type 1 - New Molecular Entity | Approved | August 20, 2014 | Standard |
| Supplement | 40 | Labeling | Approved | July 17, 2014 | 901 Required |
| Supplement | 37 | Labeling | Approved | December 23, 2013 | Standard |
| Supplement | 31 | Labeling | Approved | December 10, 2013 | Standard |
| Supplement | 35 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | April 19, 2013 | Standard |
| Supplement | 36 | Labeling | Approved | February 14, 2013 | Standard |
| Supplement | 33 | Efficacy | Approved | February 14, 2013 | Standard |
| Supplement | 34 | Labeling | Approved | December 7, 2012 | Standard |
| Supplement | 30 | Labeling | Approved | March 7, 2012 | Standard |
| Supplement | 22 | Labeling | Approved | April 11, 2011 | Standard |
| Supplement | 21 | Labeling | Approved | March 4, 2011 | Standard |
| Supplement | 20 | Labeling | Approved | January 31, 2011 | Standard |
| Supplement | 19 | Labeling | Approved | December 29, 2010 | Standard |
| Supplement | 13 | Labeling | Approved | October 18, 2010 | Unknown |
| Supplement | 17 | Labeling | Approved | September 8, 2010 | Standard |
| Supplement | 15 | Labeling | Approved | July 9, 2010 | Unknown |
| Supplement | 11 | Labeling | Approved | February 16, 2010 | Unknown |
| Supplement | 9 | Labeling | Approved | November 9, 2009 | Unknown |
| Supplement | 8 | Labeling | Approved | November 9, 2009 | Unknown |
| Supplement | 7 | Labeling | Approved | August 31, 2009 | Standard |
| Supplement | 6 | Labeling | Approved | August 31, 2009 | Standard |
| Supplement | 1 | Labeling | Approved | August 31, 2009 | Standard |
| Supplement | 5 | Manufacturing (CMC) | Approved | April 23, 2009 | N/A |
| Supplement | 4 | Labeling | Approved | January 30, 2009 | Standard |
| Original application | 1 | Type 1 - New Molecular Entity | Approved | February 29, 2008 | Standard |
Review documents
- 0 · Supplement · August 22, 2023
- 0 · Supplement · August 21, 2023
- 0 · Supplement · November 12, 2021
- 0 · Supplement · November 12, 2021
- 0 · Supplement · September 21, 2021
- 0 · Supplement · September 21, 2021
- 0 · Supplement · February 8, 2018
- 0 · Supplement · February 6, 2018
- 0 · Supplement · December 27, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · December 21, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · January 6, 2017
- 0 · Supplement · August 26, 2016
- 0 · Supplement · August 26, 2016
- 0 · Supplement · November 17, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · November 14, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · July 29, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · July 21, 2014
- 0 · Supplement · December 24, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · December 24, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · December 13, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · December 11, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · March 15, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · February 20, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · February 20, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · February 19, 2013
- 0 · Supplement · December 11, 2012
- 0 · Supplement · December 10, 2012
- 0 · Supplement · March 12, 2012
- 0 · Supplement · March 9, 2012
- 0 · Supplement · April 13, 2011
Prescribing information
Source: openFDA Drug LabelingReproduced verbatim from the Structured Product Labeling submitted to the FDA (effective 20260428). This is the manufacturer's labelling text, not a summary and not advice.
Boxed Warning
openFDA Drug LabelingWARNING: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults in short-term studies. These studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior with antidepressant use in patients over age 24; there was a reduction in risk with antidepressant use in patients aged 65 and older [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . In patients of all ages who are started on antidepressant therapy, monitor closely for worsening, and for emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Advise families and caregivers of the need for close observation and communication with the prescriber [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] . PRISTIQ is not approved for use in pediatric patients [see Use in Specific Populations (8.4) ] . WARNING: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS See full prescribing information for complete boxed warning. • Increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents and young adults taking antidepressants ( 5.1 ). • Closely monitor for clinical worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors ( 5.1 ). • PRISTIQ is not approved for use in pediatric patients ( 8.4 ).
Indications and Usage
openFDA Drug Labeling1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE PRISTIQ is indicated for the treatment of adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) [see Clinical Studies (14) ] . PRISTIQ is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) indicated for the treatment of adults with major depressive disorder (MDD) ( 1 ).
Dosage and Administration
openFDA Drug Labeling2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION • Recommended dose: 50 mg once daily with or without food ( 2.1 ). • There was no evidence that doses greater than 50 mg per day confer any additional benefit ( 2.1 ). • The 25 mg per day dose is intended for a gradual reduction in dose when discontinuing treatment or dosing in severe renal and end-stage renal disease patients ( 2.1 ). • Discontinuation: Reduce dose gradually whenever possible ( 2.1 ). • Take tablets whole; do not divide, crush, chew, or dissolve ( 2.1 ). • Moderate renal impairment: Maximum dose 50 mg per day ( 2.2 ). • Severe renal impairment and end-stage renal disease: Maximum dose 25 mg per day or 50 mg every other day ( 2.2 ). • Moderate to severe hepatic impairment: Maximum dose 100 mg per day ( 2.3 ). 2.1 General Instructions for Use The recommended dose for PRISTIQ is 50 mg once daily, with or without food. The 50 mg dose is both a starting dose and the therapeutic dose. PRISTIQ should be taken at approximately the same time each day. Tablets must be swallowed whole with fluid and not divided, crushed, chewed, or dissolved. In clinical studies, doses of 10 mg to 400 mg per day were studied. In clinical studies, doses of 50 mg to 400 mg per day were shown to be effective, although no additional benefit was demonstrated at doses greater than 50 mg per day and adverse reactions and discontinuations were more frequent at higher doses. The 25 mg per day dose is intended for a gradual reduction in dose when discontinuing treatment. When discontinuing therapy, gradual dose reduction is recommended whenever possible to minimize discontinuation symptoms [see Dosage and Administration (2.5) and Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] . 2.2 Dosage Recommendations for Patients with Renal Impairment The maximum recommended dose in patients with moderate renal impairment (24-hr creatinine clearance [Cl Cr ] = 30 to 50 mL/min, Cockcroft-Gault [C-G]) is 50 mg per day. The maximum recommended dose in patients with severe renal impairment (Cl Cr 15 to 29 mL/min, C-G) or end-stage renal disease (ESRD, Cl Cr < 15 mL/min, C-G) is 25 mg every day or 50 mg every other day. Supplemental doses should not be given to patients after dialysis [see Use in Specific Populations (8.6) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . 2.3 Dosage Recommendations for Patients with Hepatic Impairment The recommended dose in patients with moderate to severe hepatic impairment (Child-Pugh score 7 to 15) is 50 mg per day. Dose escalation above 100 mg per day is not recommended [see Use in Specific Populations (8.7) and Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . 2.4 Maintenance/Continuation/Extended Treatment It is generally agreed that acute episodes of major depressive disorder require several months or longer of sustained pharmacologic therapy. Longer-term efficacy of PRISTIQ (50–400 mg) was established in two maintenance trials [see Clinical Studies (14) ] . Patients should be periodically reassessed to determine the need for continued treatment. 2.5 Discontinuing PRISTIQ Adverse reactions may occur upon discontinuation of PRISTIQ [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ]. Gradually reduce the dosage rather than stopping PRISTIQ abruptly when discontinuing therapy with PRISTIQ. In some patients, discontinuation may need to occur over a period of several months. 2.6 Switching Patients From Other Antidepressants to PRISTIQ Discontinuation symptoms have been reported when switching patients from other antidepressants, including venlafaxine, to PRISTIQ. Tapering of the initial antidepressant may be necessary to minimize discontinuation symptoms. 2.7 Switching Patients to or from a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI) Intended to Treat Psychiatric Disorders At least 14 days should elapse between discontinuation of an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders and initiation of therapy with PRISTIQ. Conversely, at least 7 days should be allowed after stopping PRISTIQ before starting an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders [see Contraindicat …
Dosage Forms and Strengths
openFDA Drug Labeling3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS • 25 mg Tablet: tan, square pyramid tablet debossed with "W" over "25" on the flat side • 50 mg Tablet: light pink, square pyramid tablet debossed with "W" over "50" on the flat side • 100 mg Tablet: reddish-orange, square pyramid tablet debossed with "W" over "100" on the flat side • PRISTIQ extended-release tablets: 25 mg, 50 mg and 100 mg ( 3 ). • Each tablet contains 38 mg, 76 mg or 152 mg of desvenlafaxine succinate equivalent to 25 mg, 50 mg or 100 mg of desvenlafaxine, respectively ( 3 ).
Contraindications
openFDA Drug Labeling4 CONTRAINDICATIONS • Hypersensitivity to desvenlafaxine succinate, venlafaxine hydrochloride or to any excipients in the PRISTIQ formulation. Angioedema has been reported in patients treated with PRISTIQ [see Adverse Reactions (6.1) ] . • The use of MAOIs intended to treat psychiatric disorders with PRISTIQ or within 7 days of stopping treatment with PRISTIQ is contraindicated because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome. The use of PRISTIQ within 14 days of stopping an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders is also contraindicated [see Dosage and Administration (2.7) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. • Starting PRISTIQ in a patient who is being treated with MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue is also contraindicated because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome [see Dosage and Administration (2.8) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. • Hypersensitivity to desvenlafaxine succinate, venlafaxine hydrochloride or any excipients in the PRISTIQ formulation ( 4 ). • Serotonin Syndrome and MAOIs : Do not use MAOIs intended to treat psychiatric disorders with PRISTIQ or within 7 days of stopping treatment with PRISTIQ. Do not use PRISTIQ within 14 days of stopping an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders. In addition, do not start PRISTIQ in a patient who is being treated with linezolid or intravenous methylene blue ( 4 ).
Warnings and Cautions
openFDA Drug Labeling5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS • Serotonin Syndrome: Increased risk when co-administered with other serotonergic agents, but also when taken alone. If it occurs, discontinue PRISTIQ and serotonergic agents and initiate supportive treatment ( 5.2 ). • Elevated Blood Pressure: Control hypertension before initiating treatment. Monitor blood pressure regularly during treatment ( 5.3 ). • Increased Risk of Bleeding: Concomitant use of aspirin, NSAIDs, other antiplatelet drugs, warfarin, and other anticoagulants may increase this risk ( 5.4 ). • Angle Closure Glaucoma: Avoid use of antidepressants, including PRISTIQ, in patients with untreated anatomically narrow angles treated ( 5.5 ). • Activation of Mania/Hypomania: Use cautiously in patients with Bipolar Disorder. Caution patients about risk of activation of mania/hypomania ( 5.6 ). • Discontinuation Syndrome: Taper dose when possible and monitor for discontinuation symptoms ( 5.7 ). • Seizure: Can occur. Use cautiously in patients with seizure disorder ( 5.8 ). • Hyponatremia: Can occur in association with SIADH ( 5.9 ). • Interstitial Lung Disease and Eosinophilic Pneumonia: Can occur ( 5.10 ). • Sexual Dysfunction: PRISTIQ may cause symptoms of sexual dysfunction ( 5.11 ). 5.1 Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Pediatric and Young Adult Patients Patients with MDD, both adult and pediatric, may experience worsening of their depression and/or the emergence of suicidal ideation and behavior (suicidality) or unusual changes in behavior, whether or not they are taking antidepressant medications, and this risk may persist until significant remission occurs. Suicide is a known risk of depression and certain other psychiatric disorders, and these disorders themselves are the strongest predictors of suicide. There has been a long-standing concern, however, that antidepressants may have a role in inducing worsening of depression and the emergence of suicidality in certain patients during the early phases of treatment. Pooled analyses of short-term placebo-controlled studies of antidepressant drugs (SSRIs and others) showed that these drugs increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior (suicidality) in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 18 to 24) with major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders. Short-term studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidality with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults beyond age 24; there was a reduction with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults aged 65 and older. The pooled analyses of placebo-controlled studies in children and adolescents with MDD, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), or other psychiatric disorders included a total of 24 short-term studies of 9 antidepressant drugs in over 4,400 patients. The pooled analyses of placebo-controlled studies in adults with MDD or other psychiatric disorders included a total of 295 short-term studies (median duration of 2 months) of 11 antidepressant drugs in over 77,000 patients. There was considerable variation in risk of suicidality among drugs, but a tendency toward an increase in the younger patients for almost all drugs studied. There were differences in absolute risk of suicidality across the different indications, with the highest incidence in MDD. The risk differences (drug vs. placebo), however, were relatively stable within age strata and across indications. These risk differences (drug-placebo difference in the number of cases of suicidality per 1,000 patients treated) are provided in Table 1. Table 1 Age Range Drug-Placebo Difference in Number of Cases of Suicidality per 1,000 Patients Treated Increases Compared to Placebo <18 14 additional cases 18 to 24 5 additional cases Decreases Compared to Placebo 25 to 64 1 fewer case ≥65 6 fewer cases No suicides occurred in any of the pediatric studies. There were suicides in the adult studies, but the number was not sufficient to reach any conclusion about drug effect on suicide. It is unknown w …
Adverse Reactions
openFDA Drug Labeling6 ADVERSE REACTIONS The following adverse reactions are discussed in greater detail in other sections of the label. • Hypersensitivity [see Contraindications (4) ] • Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Pediatric and Young Adult Patients [see Warnings and Precautions (5.1) ] • Serotonin Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ] • Elevated Blood Pressure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.3) ] • Increased Risk of Bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] • Angle Closure Glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions (5.5) ] • Activation of Mania/Hypomania [see Warnings and Precautions (5.6) ] • Discontinuation Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions (5.7) ] • Seizure [see Warnings and Precautions (5.8) ] • Hyponatremia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.9) ] • Interstitial Lung Disease and Eosinophilic Pneumonia [see Warnings and Precautions (5.10) ] • Sexual Dysfunction [see Warnings and Precautions (5.11) ] Most common adverse reactions (incidence ≥5% and twice the rate of placebo in the 50 or 100 mg dose groups) were: nausea, dizziness, insomnia, hyperhidrosis, constipation, somnolence, decreased appetite, anxiety, and specific male sexual function disorders ( 6.1 ). To report SUSPECTED ADVERSE REACTIONS, contact Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc., at 1-800-438-1985 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or www.fda.gov/medwatch . 6.1 Clinical Studies Experience Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical studies of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in clinical practice. Patient Exposure PRISTIQ was evaluated for safety in 8,394 patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder who participated in multiple-dose pre-marketing studies, representing 2,784 patient-years of exposure. Of the total 8,394 patients exposed to at least one dose of PRISTIQ; 2,116 were exposed to PRISTIQ for 6 months, representing 1,658 patient-years of exposure, and 421 were exposed for one year, representing 416 patient-years of exposure. Adverse Reactions Reported as Reasons for Discontinuation of Treatment In the pre-marketing pooled 8-week placebo-controlled studies in patients with MDD, 1,834 patients were exposed to PRISTIQ (50 to 400 mg). Of the 1,834 patients, 12% discontinued treatment due to an adverse reaction, compared with 3% of the 1,116 placebo-treated patients. At the recommended dose of 50 mg, the discontinuation rate due to an adverse reaction for PRISTIQ (4.1%) was similar to the rate for placebo (3.8%). For the 100 mg dose of PRISTIQ the discontinuation rate due to an adverse reaction was 8.7%. The most common adverse reactions leading to discontinuation in at least 2% and at a rate greater than placebo of the PRISTIQ treated patients in the short-term studies, up to 8 weeks, were: nausea (4%); dizziness, headache and vomiting (2% each). In a longer-term study, up to 9 months, the most common was vomiting (2%). Common Adverse Reactions in Placebo-Controlled MDD Studies The most commonly observed adverse reactions in PRISTIQ treated MDD patients in pre-marketing pooled 8-week, placebo-controlled, fixed-dose studies (incidence ≥ 5% and at least twice the rate of placebo in the 50 or 100 mg dose groups) were: nausea, dizziness, insomnia, hyperhidrosis, constipation, somnolence, decreased appetite, anxiety, and specific male sexual function disorders. Table 2 shows the incidence of common adverse reactions that occurred in ≥ 2% of PRISTIQ treated MDD patients and twice the rate of placebo at any dose in the pre-marketing pooled 8-week, placebo-controlled, fixed dose clinical studies. Table 2: Common Adverse Reactions (≥ 2% in any Fixed-Dose Group and Twice the Rate of Placebo) in Pre-marketing Pooled MDD 8-Week Placebo-Controlled Studies Percentage of Patients Reporting Reaction PRISTIQ System Organ Class Preferred Term Placebo (n=636) 50 mg (n=317) 100 mg (n=424) 200 mg (n=30 …
Drug Interactions
openFDA Drug Labeling7 DRUG INTERACTIONS 7.1 Drugs Having Clinically Important Interactions with PRISTIQ Table 8: Clinically Important Drug Interactions with PRISTIQ Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOI) Clinical Impact The concomitant use of SSRIs and SNRIs including PRISTIQ with MAOIs increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. Intervention Concomitant use of PRISTIQ is contraindicated: • With an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders or within 7 days of stopping treatment with PRISTIQ. • Within 14 days of stopping an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders. • In a patient who is being treated with linezolid or intravenous methylene blue. [see Dosage and Administration (2.7) , Contraindications (4) and Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Examples selegiline, tranylcypromine, isocarboxazid, phenelzine, linezolid, methylene blue Other Serotonergic Drugs Clinical Impact Concomitant use of PRISTIQ with other serotonergic drugs increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. Intervention Monitor for symptoms of serotonin syndrome when PRISTIQ is used concomitantly with other drugs that may affect the serotonergic neurotransmitter systems. If serotonin syndrome occurs, consider discontinuation of PRISTIQ and/or concomitant serotonergic drugs [see Warnings and Precautions (5.2) ]. Examples other SNRIs, SSRIs, triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, opioids, lithium, buspirone, amphetamines, tryptophan, and St. John's Wort Drugs that Interfere with Hemostasis Clinical Impact Concomitant use of PRISTIQ with an antiplatelet or anticoagulant drug may potentiate the risk of bleeding. This may be due to the effect of PRISTIQ on the release of serotonin by platelets. Intervention Closely monitor for bleeding for patients receiving an antiplatelet or anticoagulant drug when PRISTIQ is initiated or discontinued [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . Examples NSAIDs, aspirin, and warfarin Drugs that are Primarily Metabolized by CYP2D6 Clinical Impact Concomitant use of PRISTIQ increases C max and AUC of a drug primarily metabolized by CYP2D6 which may increase the risk of toxicity of the CYP2D6 substrate drug [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ] . Intervention Original dose should be taken when co-administered with PRISTIQ 100 mg or lower. Reduce the dose of these drugs by up to one-half if co-administered with 400 mg of PRISTIQ. Examples desipramine, atomoxetine, dextromethorphan, metoprolol, nebivolol, perphenazine, tolterodine 7.2 Drugs Having No Clinically Important Interactions with PRISTIQ Based on pharmacokinetic studies, no dosage adjustment is required for drugs that are mainly metabolized by CYP3A4 (e.g., midazolam), or for drugs that are metabolized by both CYP2D6 and CYP3A4 (e.g., tamoxifen, aripiprazole), when administered concomitantly with PRISTIQ [see Clinical Pharmacology (12.3) ]. 7.3 Alcohol A clinical study has shown that PRISTIQ does not increase the impairment of mental and motor skills caused by ethanol. However, as with all CNS-active drugs, patients should be advised to avoid alcohol consumption while taking PRISTIQ. 7.4 Drug-Laboratory Test Interactions False-positive urine immunoassay screening tests for phencyclidine (PCP) and amphetamine have been reported in patients taking desvenlafaxine. This is due to lack of specificity of the screening tests. False positive test results may be expected for several days following discontinuation of desvenlafaxine therapy. Confirmatory tests, such as gas chromatography/mass spectrometry, will distinguish desvenlafaxine from PCP and amphetamine.
Use in Specific Populations
openFDA Drug Labeling8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS • Pregnancy: Third trimester use may result in neonatal discontinuation syndrome ( 8.1 ). • Geriatric Use : There is an increased incidence of orthostatic hypotension in desvenlafaxine treated patients ≥ 65 years ( 6.1 and 8.5 ). 8.1 Pregnancy Pregnancy Exposure Registry There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to antidepressants during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by calling the National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants at 1-866-961-2388 or visiting online at https://womensmentalhealth.org/clinical-and-research-programs/pregnancyregistry/antidepressants . Risk Summary Based on data from published observational studies, exposure to SNRIs, particularly in the month before delivery, has been associated with a less than 2-fold increase in the risk of postpartum hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) and Clinical Considerations ] . There are no published studies on PRISTIQ in pregnant women; however published epidemiologic studies of pregnant women exposed to venlafaxine, the parent compound, have not reported a clear association with adverse developmental outcomes (see Data ) . There are risks associated with untreated depression in pregnancy and with exposure to SNRIs and SSRIs, including PRISTIQ, during pregnancy ( see Clinical Considerations ). In reproductive developmental studies in rats and rabbits treated with desvenlafaxine succinate, there was no evidence of teratogenicity at a plasma exposure (AUC) that is up to 19-times (rats) and 0.5-times (rabbits) the exposure at an adult human dose of 100 mg per day. However, fetotoxicity and pup deaths were observed in rats at 4.5-times the AUC exposure observed with an adult human dose of 100 mg per day. The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2–4% and 15–20%, respectively. Clinical Considerations Disease-Associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk A prospective longitudinal study of 201 women with a history of major depression who were euthymic at the beginning of pregnancy, showed that women who discontinued antidepressant medication during pregnancy were more likely to experience a relapse of major depression than women who continued antidepressant medication. Maternal Adverse Reactions Exposure to PRISTIQ in mid to late pregnancy may increase the risk for preeclampsia, and exposure to PRISTIQ in the month before delivery may be associated with an increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions (5.4) ] . Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reactions Exposure to SNRIs or SSRIs in late pregnancy may lead to an increased risk for neonatal complications requiring prolonged hospitalization, respiratory support, and tube feeding. Monitor neonates who were exposed to PRISTIQ in the third trimester of pregnancy for drug discontinuation syndrome (see Data ). Data Human Data Published epidemiological studies of pregnant women exposed to the parent compound venlafaxine have not reported a clear association with major birth defects or miscarriage. Methodological limitations of these observational studies include possible exposure and outcome misclassification, lack of adequate controls, adjustment for confounders, and confirmatory studies; therefore, these studies cannot establish or exclude any drug-associated risk during pregnancy. Retrospective cohort studies based on claims data have shown an association between venlafaxine use and preeclampsia, compared to depressed women who did not take an antidepressant during pregnancy. One study that assessed venlafaxine exposure in the second trimester or first half of the third trimester and preeclampsia showed …
Mechanism of Action
openFDA Drug Labeling12.1 Mechanism of Action The exact mechanism of the antidepressant action of desvenlafaxine is unknown, but 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.
Description
openFDA Drug Labeling11 DESCRIPTION PRISTIQ is an extended-release tablet for oral administration that contains desvenlafaxine succinate, a structurally novel SNRI for the treatment of MDD. Desvenlafaxine (O-desmethylvenlafaxine) is the major active metabolite of the antidepressant venlafaxine, a medication used to treat major depressive disorder. Desvenlafaxine is designated RS -4-[2-dimethylamino-1-(1-hydroxycyclohexyl)ethyl]phenol and has the empirical formula of C 16 H 25 NO 2 (free base) and C 16 H 25 NO 2 ∙C 4 H 6 O 4 ∙H 2 O (succinate monohydrate). Desvenlafaxine succinate monohydrate has a molecular weight of 399.48. The structural formula is shown below. Desvenlafaxine succinate is a white to off-white powder that is soluble in water. The solubility of desvenlafaxine succinate is pH dependent. Its octanol:aqueous system (at pH 7.0) partition coefficient is 0.21. PRISTIQ is formulated as an extended-release tablet for once-a-day oral administration. Each tablet contains 38 mg, 76 mg or 152 mg of desvenlafaxine succinate equivalent to 25 mg, 50 mg or 100 mg of desvenlafaxine, respectively. Inactive ingredients for the 25 mg tablet consist of hypromellose, microcrystalline cellulose, talc, magnesium stearate, a film coating which consists of polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene glycol, talc, titanium dioxide, and iron oxides. Inactive ingredients for the 50 mg tablet consist of hypromellose, microcrystalline cellulose, talc, magnesium stearate and film coating, which consists of polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene glycol, talc, titanium dioxide, and iron oxides. Inactive ingredients for the 100 mg tablet consist of hypromellose, microcrystalline cellulose, talc, magnesium stearate and film coating, which consists of polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene glycol, talc, titanium dioxide, iron oxide and FD&C yellow #6. Chemical Structure
Overdosage
openFDA Drug Labeling10 OVERDOSAGE 10.1 Human Experience with Overdosage There is limited clinical trial experience with desvenlafaxine succinate overdosage in humans. However, desvenlafaxine (PRISTIQ) is the major active metabolite of venlafaxine. Overdose experience reported with venlafaxine (the parent drug of PRISTIQ) is presented below; the identical information can be found in the Overdosage section of the venlafaxine package insert. In postmarketing experience, overdose with venlafaxine (the parent drug of PRISTIQ) has occurred predominantly in combination with alcohol and/or other drugs. The most commonly reported events in overdosage include tachycardia, changes in level of consciousness (ranging from somnolence to coma), mydriasis, seizures, and vomiting. Electrocardiogram changes (e.g., prolongation of QT interval, bundle branch block, QRS prolongation), sinus and ventricular tachycardia, bradycardia, hypotension, rhabdomyolysis, vertigo, liver necrosis, serotonin syndrome, and death have been reported. Published retrospective studies report that venlafaxine overdosage may be associated with an increased risk of fatal outcomes compared to that observed with SSRI antidepressant products, but lower than that for tricyclic antidepressants. Epidemiological studies have shown that venlafaxine-treated patients have a higher pre-existing burden of suicide risk factors than SSRI-treated patients. The extent to which the finding of an increased risk of fatal outcomes can be attributed to the toxicity of venlafaxine in overdosage, as opposed to some characteristic(s) of venlafaxine-treated patients, is not clear. 10.2 Management of Overdosage No specific antidotes for PRISTIQ are known. In managing over dosage, consider the possibility of multiple drug involvement. In case of overdose, call Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for latest recommendations.
How Supplied / Storage and Handling
openFDA Drug Labeling16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING PRISTIQ ® (desvenlafaxine) extended-release tablets are available as follows: 25 mg, tan, square pyramid tablet debossed with "W" (over) "25" on the flat side NDC 0008-1210-30, bottle of 30 tablets in unit-of-use package 50 mg, light pink, square pyramid tablet debossed with "W" (over) "50" on the flat side NDC 0008-1211-14, bottle of 14 tablets in unit-of-use package NDC 0008-1211-30, bottle of 30 tablets in unit-of-use package NDC 0008-1211-01, bottle of 90 tablets in unit-of-use package NDC 0008-1211-50, 10 blisters of 10 (HUD) 100 mg, reddish-orange, square pyramid tablet debossed with "W" (over) "100" on the flat side NDC 0008-1222-14, bottle of 14 tablets in unit-of-use package NDC 0008-1222-30, bottle of 30 tablets in unit-of-use package NDC 0008-1222-01, bottle of 90 tablets in unit-of-use package NDC 0008-1222-50, 10 blisters of 10 (HUD) Store at 20° to 25°C (68° to 77°F); excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature] . Each tablet contains 38 mg, 76 mg or 152 mg of desvenlafaxine succinate equivalent to 25 mg, 50 mg or 100 mg of desvenlafaxine, respectively.
Adverse event reports
Source: openFDA FAERSAttributed to this product's most-reported active ingredient: DESVENLAFAXINE SUCCINATE. Combination products with more than six active ingredients are not attributed, because a report count summed across a long ingredient list measures the list, not the medicine.
Recalls
Source: FDA Enforcement| Classification | Reported | Firm | Reason | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class II | July 2, 2014 | Pfizer Us Pharmaceutical Group | Presence of Foreign Tablets/Capsules: Pfizer is recalling 50 mg Pristiq (desvenlafaxine) extended release tablets because a single Pristiq 100 mg tablet was found in a bottle of 50 mg Pristiq. | Terminated |
Packaging and NDCs
Source: NDC Directory| Package NDC | Product NDC | Labeler | Description | Marketing start |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0008-1210-30 | 0008-1210 | Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc. | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (0008-1210-30) | April 1, 2015 |
| 0008-1211-01 | 0008-1211 | Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc. | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (0008-1211-01) | May 1, 2008 |
| 0008-1211-14 | 0008-1211 | Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc. | 14 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (0008-1211-14) | May 1, 2008 |
| 0008-1211-30 | 0008-1211 | Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc. | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (0008-1211-30) | May 1, 2008 |
| 0008-1211-50 | 0008-1211 | Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc. | 100 BLISTER PACK in 1 CARTON (0008-1211-50) / 1 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK | May 1, 2008 |
| 0008-1222-01 | 0008-1222 | Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc. | 90 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (0008-1222-01) | May 1, 2008 |
| 0008-1222-14 | 0008-1222 | Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc. | 14 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (0008-1222-14) | May 1, 2008 |
| 0008-1222-30 | 0008-1222 | Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc. | 30 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BOTTLE, PLASTIC (0008-1222-30) | May 1, 2008 |
| 0008-1222-50 | 0008-1222 | Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc. | 100 BLISTER PACK in 1 CARTON (0008-1222-50) / 1 TABLET, EXTENDED RELEASE in 1 BLISTER PACK | May 1, 2008 |
| 0008-1210 | 0008-1210 | Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc. | — | April 1, 2015 |
| 0008-1211 | 0008-1211 | Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc. | — | May 1, 2008 |
| 0008-1222 | 0008-1222 | Wyeth Pharmaceuticals LLC, a subsidiary of Pfizer Inc. | — | May 1, 2008 |
Sources for this page
| Dataset | Agency | Used for |
|---|---|---|
| NDC Directory | FDA | Identity, ingredients, strengths, forms, routes, labelers, packages |
| Drugs@FDA | FDA | Application, sponsor, submissions, review documents, marketing status |
| Orange Book | FDA | Therapeutic equivalence codes, reference drug flags, patents, exclusivity |
| Drug Labeling | FDA / NLM | Prescribing information reproduced above |
| FAERS | FDA | Adverse event report counts |
| Enforcement | FDA | Recall records |
Generated September 25, 2026 · 13 sections on this page.