What is the brand name for Desvenlafaxine?
The brand name for Desvenlafaxine is Pristiq.
PTCB 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).
Study guides that cover Desvenlafaxine
Free, in-depth guides to the patterns behind this drug — no app needed.
Drug suffix cheat sheetthe suffix that gives away this drug's class
How to memorize the Top 200 drugsa method for locking in brand↔generic pairs
LASA (look-alike/sound-alike) drugsthe name pairs most often mixed up
Sig codes cheat sheetthe abbreviations on this drug's labelSee all PTCE study guides or browse the full Top 200 drug list.
Drill Desvenlafaxine the way the PTCE asks it
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Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Written and reviewed by the RxReflex Content Team. 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).