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Compare Nefazodone vs. Pristiq

Head-to-head comparisons of medication uses, side effects, warnings, and more.

Key takeaways

Nefazodone (generic, formerly sold as Serzone) and Desvenlafaxine succinate ER (brand name Pristiq) are both used to treat depression, but they have some key differences. Nefazodone is an atypical antidepressant that increases serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain, while Desvenlafaxine is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). Nefazodone is taken twice daily and is only available as a generic, whereas Desvenlafaxine is taken once daily and is available as both a brand name and a generic. Nefazodone carries a serious risk of liver damage, making it a less preferred option, especially for those with liver issues. On the other hand, Desvenlafaxine can raise blood pressure and is not recommended for people with uncontrolled high blood pressure or heart problems. Both medications can take several weeks to show their full effects and have potential side effects, including the risk of worsening depression and suicidal thoughts, particularly in younger individuals.

  • Nefazodone
    Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)
  • Nefazodone
    Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)

  • Summary of Nefazodone vs. Pristiq

    Summary for Atypical antidepressant
    Prescription only

    Nefazodone is used to treat depression, but it’s usually not a first-choice option because it can cause serious liver damage. Some side effects include headache, dry mouth, nausea, and drowsiness. But, it's not likely to cause weight gain or weight loss. Withdrawal symptoms aren't typically with this medication, but it still can't be ruled out. Nefazodone is only available as a generic medication since the brand name Serzone has been discontinued.

    Summary for SNRI
    Prescription only

    Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) is a medication used to treat depression in adults. It's only available as a tablet that's typically taken once a day. This medication can raise your blood pressure, so it might not be the best choice if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure or heart problems.

  • Indications of Nefazodone vs. Pristiq

    Indications for
    •Depression
    Indications for
    •Depression

  • Pros and Cons of Nefazodone vs. Pristiq

    Pros and Const for Atypical antidepressant
    Pros
    •Comes in different strengths, so your provider can adjust your dose if needed
    •Okay to use in people with kidney problems
    •Not associated with weight changes (weight gain or weight loss)
    •Available as a lower-cost generic
    Cons
    •Risk of life-threatening liver failure
    •Have to take it twice daily
    •Can take many weeks for the full effects to kick in
    •Interacts with many medications, such as carbamazepine (Tegretol) and alprazolam (Xanax)
    Pros and Const for SNRI
    Pros
    •A first-choice medication for treating depression in adults
    •Can take with or without food
    •Once-daily dosing makes it easier to remember to take
    •Lower-cost generic available
    •Less serious side effects compared to some other antidepressants
    Cons
    •Can take up to 8 weeks for effects to fully kick in
    •Can raise your blood pressure
    •Must lower dose slowly to stop the medication to avoid withdrawal symptoms
    •Not approved for use in children

  • Common Side Effects of Nefazodone vs. Pristiq

    Common Side Effects for
    •Headache (36%)
    •Sleepiness (25%)
    •Dry mouth (25%)
    •Nausea (22%)
    •Dizziness (17%)
    •Constipation (14%)
    •Trouble sleeping (11%)
    •Weakness (11%)
    •Lightheadedness (10%)
    •Blurred vision (9%)
    •Indigestion (9%)
    Common Side Effects for
    •Nausea (22%)
    •Dizziness (13%)
    •Dry mouth (11%)
    •Excessive sweating (10%)
    •Constipation (9%)
    •Trouble sleeping (9%)
    •Feeling tired (7%)
    •Loss of appetite (5%)
    •Sleepiness (4%)
    •Low sex drive (4%)

  • Warnings of Nefazodone vs. Pristiq

    Common Side Effects for
    •Worsening depression and suicidal thoughts and behavior
    •Liver problems
    •Bipolar disorder
    •Eye problems
    •Drop in blood pressure upon standing
    •Seizures
    •Heart conditions
    Common Side Effects for
    •Suicidal thoughts and behaviors
    •Serotonin syndrome
    •High blood pressure
    •Higher bleeding risk
    •Worsening of glaucoma
    •Emergence of mania
    •Withdrawal symptoms
    •Seizures
    •Low sodium levels in the blood
    •Lung problems and pneumonia

  • Prices with our coupons for Nefazodone vs. Pristiq

    Learn more about Nefazodone
    Learn more about Desvenlafaxine

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