There is no evidence that desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) is more effective, safer or better tolerated than its parent drug, venlafaxine, or other antidepressants, NPS advises in the latest edition of NPS RADAR.

Desvenlafaxine was recently listed on the PBS for major depressive disorder. It is the active metabolite of venlafaxine but there is no evidence that it has any particular advantage over venlafaxine.

The review notes that the lowest effective dose of desvenlafaxine is not known, and that doses above 50 mg/day are unlikely to provide further clinical benefit and are associated with a higher incidence of adverse effects. Common adverse effects include nausea, headache, dizziness, dry mouth and diarrhoea.

NPS RADAR recommends dose deceases should occur slowly to avoid discontinuation symptoms.

Desvenlafaxine should not be used in children and adolescents.

NPS RADAR has previously reviewed a number of drugs for depressive disorders and depression. To view the full review or register for free email alerts go to npsradar.au.

NPS RADAR provides independent information about new medicines and changes to PBS listings important to GPs, pharmacists and other health professionals involved in primary care management of patients.

The National Prescribing Service Limited (NPS) is an independent, non-profit organisation for Quality Use of Medicines funded by the Australian Government Department of Health and Ageing.

Source
The National Prescribing Service Limited