What is the brand name for Desvenlafaxine?
The brand name for Desvenlafaxine is Pristiq.
PTCE Top 200 · #189
Desvenlafaxine
Pristiq
Desvenlafaxine is the generic name for the brand-name drug Pristiq. It is a snri antidepressant used to treat depression. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Desvenlafaxine ranks #189 and is one of the most frequently tested cns/psych medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Desvenlafaxine |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Pristiq |
| Drug class | SNRI antidepressant |
| Class group | CNS/Psych |
| Common use | depression |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Desvenlafaxine used for?
Treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD).
What drug class is Desvenlafaxine?
Desvenlafaxine is a SNRI antidepressant in the CNS/Psych group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Desvenlafaxine
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightDry mouth
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightInsomnia
- arrow_rightSweating
- arrow_rightConstipation
- arrow_rightDecreased appetite
- arrow_rightIncreased blood pressure
Major interactions
- arrow_rightMAO inhibitors (contraindicated; serotonin syndrome risk)
- arrow_rightOther serotonergic drugs (SSRIs/SNRIs, triptans, linezolid) increase serotonin syndrome risk
- arrow_rightNSAIDs/aspirin/anticoagulants increase bleeding risk
- arrow_rightAlcohol and CNS depressants can worsen impairment
- arrow_rightOther drugs that raise blood pressure (monitor)
Is Desvenlafaxine a controlled substance?
No. Desvenlafaxine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
warning Boxed warning
Suicidal thoughts and behaviors: antidepressants increase risk in children, adolescents, and young adults; monitor closely.
How to remember Desvenlafaxine (PTCE mnemonic)
PRIS-tiq PRIES open mood — DES-venlafaxine is the active metabolite of Effexor (no CYP2D6 conversion needed). ↑BP, brutal withdrawal (taper slowly), suicidality (boxed).
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Another 'refined parent' drug: DESvenlafaxine is venlafaxine's active metabolite — recognize the des- prefix, and keep the SNRI taper-don't-stop counseling.
Desvenlafaxine FAQ
What is Desvenlafaxine used for?
Desvenlafaxine is used to treat depression. Treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD).
What drug class is Desvenlafaxine?
Desvenlafaxine is a SNRI antidepressant (CNS/Psych group).
Is Desvenlafaxine a controlled substance?
No. Desvenlafaxine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Drill Desvenlafaxine the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).