Desvenlafaxine Viatris (Desvenlafaxine)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Desvenlafaxine Viatris Used For?
Desvenlafaxine Viatris is a medication that helps manage depression by balancing certain chemicals in the brain.
Primary Uses
It is primarily used to treat and prevent the relapse of depression.
How It Works
Desvenlafaxine increases the levels of serotonin and noradrenaline, which are chemical messengers in the brain, helping to improve mood and emotional well-being.
Good to know: Desvenlafaxine is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Desvenlafaxine Viatris
Follow your doctor's instructions on how to take this medication for optimal results.
Dosage Instructions
The usual dose is 50 mg taken once daily, with or without food. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose and it's less than 12 hours until your next dose, skip the missed dose. If it's more than 12 hours, take it as soon as you remember but do not double the dose.
Important: Never double dose to make up for a missed dose.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Constipation
- Difficulty passing urine
- Anxiety
- Irritability
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Excessive sweating
- Weight changes
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Neuroleptic malignant syndrome
- Serotonin syndrome
- Thoughts of suicide
- Severe mood changes
- Seizures
- Severe allergic reactions
Impulse Control Issues
Monitor for any unusual changes in behavior, including increased impulsivity or agitation.
Important Warnings
There are important considerations to keep in mind before taking Desvenlafaxine Viatris.
Who Should Not Take Desvenlafaxine Viatris
Do not take this medication if you are allergic to desvenlafaxine, venlafaxine, or any of its ingredients. Avoid if you have taken monoamine oxidase inhibitors in the last 14 days.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have a history of seizures, bipolar disorder, blood pressure issues, glaucoma, bleeding tendencies, high cholesterol, kidney or liver problems, heart issues, or low sodium levels.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Desvenlafaxine is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to potential risks to the baby.
Elderly Patients With Dementia: Use caution if prescribing to elderly patients with dementia.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Desvenlafaxine Viatris, affecting its effectiveness.
Grapefruit interaction: Grapefruit may affect how this medication works.
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
- Other antidepressants
- Medications for bipolar disorder
- Drugs affecting serotonin levels
- Weight loss medications
- Triptans
- Aspirin or NSAIDs
- Warfarin
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating machinery while taking this medication.
Alcohol
Avoid drinking alcohol while on Desvenlafaxine as it may increase side effects.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Desvenlafaxine affects you, as it may cause drowsiness.
Temperature Regulation
Monitor for any issues with body temperature regulation.
Storage
Store Desvenlafaxine Viatris in its blister pack in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from moisture and heat.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Contact the Poisons Information Centre at 13 11 26 or go to the nearest hospital.
Frequently Asked Questions
You may start to feel better after two weeks, but it can take several weeks to feel the full effects.
Yes, you can take it with or without food.
No, it is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking this medication abruptly without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to withdrawal symptoms.
It is advised to avoid alcohol while taking this medication.
Weight changes can occur, including weight gain or loss.
Elderly patients should use caution, especially those with dementia.
If you miss a dose, skip it if it's less than 12 hours until your next dose; otherwise, take it as soon as you remember.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.