Does Pristiq cause bloating? (+3 tips)

In this article, we will discuss whether or not Pristiq causes bloating, research studies on the link between Pristiq and bloating, the factors that might contribute to bloating while taking Pristiq, what you should do if Pristiq causes bloating, alternatives to Pristiq if it causes persistent bloating, and tips and recommendations for managing bloating while taking Pristiq.

Does Pristiq cause bloating?

Yes, Pristiq can cause bloating. Bloating is a possible side effect of Pristiq. However, bloating is not a common side effect of Pristiq and most individuals don’t experience bloating while taking Pristiq.

Pristiq is the brand name of the antidepressant medication desvenlafaxine. It belongs to the class of drugs known as SNRIs (Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors). Pristiq functions by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. (1)

Although the precise mechanism by which Pristiq causes bloating is not entirely understood, it is believed to be connected to the medication’s effects on the serotonin and norepinephrine receptors in the brain.

Serotonin and norepinephrine are involved in the regulation of gut motility. Elevated levels of these neurotransmitters may result in the relaxation of the gut muscles and slowing down the digestion process. This in turn may result in bloating and constipation. (2)

What does research suggest?

There is limited research on whether Pristiq causes bloating. However, a certain research study has assessed the inhibitory effects of desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) on gastric slow waves, antral contractions, and gastric accommodation mediated via the sympathetic mechanism.

According to this research study, these inhibitory effects are associated with an increased sympathetic modulation in the GI (Gastro-Intestinal) system, which slows down the digestion process and can lead to bloating, constipation, and other GI problems.

The study concluded that caution should be exercised when desvenlafaxine is used to treat patients with depression and GI disorders. (3)

What factors might contribute to Pristiq-induced bloating?

There are several factors that might contribute to Pristiq-induced bloating, some of which include: (4)

• Medication dose: High Pristiq doses can increase bloating and flatulence. High doses may slow down the digestion process, which may result in flatulence as well as other GI symptoms.

• Underlying medical conditions: Certain medical conditions such as IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), GERD (Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease), constipation, and helicobacter pylori infection can induce bloating while taking Pristiq.

• Concurrent medications: Medications like iron pills, opioids, aspirin, and bulking agents can induce bloating and constipation while taking Pristiq.

• Lifestyle factors: Physical inactivity, obesity, a diet rich in fats and carbohydrates, overeating, lack of sleep, smoking, and alcohol. These factors can contribute to indigestion which leads to bloating and gases.

• Stress: Overstressing can increase the release of cortisol hormone, leading to water retention and bloating.

What should you do if Pristiq causes bloating?

If Pristiq causes bloating, consult your healthcare provider about reducing your medication dose. Your healthcare provider might gradually reduce your Pristiq dose over weeks or months.

According to your situation, your healthcare provider might reduce your dose by 10-20% per week. You should take the reduced dose for at least one week before reducing the dose again.

However, Pristiq generally takes 4 to 6 weeks to start working for depression and related symptoms. The GI side effects including bloating might fade away as your body adjusts to the medication.

Additionally, your healthcare provider will thoroughly evaluate your situation to determine whether Pristiq is the cause of bloating or whether there are underlying medical conditions, medication, or other factors that can cause bloating.

After careful examination and evaluation, if Pristiq is the cause of bloating and if this side effect is persistent despite reducing the dose, your healthcare provider might switch you to an alternative with fewer adverse events.

Important tips and recommendations for managing bloating while taking Pristiq

There are several important tips for managing bloating while taking Pristiq, some of which include: (5)

• Stay hydrated through drinking water and herbal teas like peppermint and chamomile. They can help relieve bloating and indigestion.

• Practice gentle exercises like yoga or walking. These exercises can aid in digestion and can help relieve bloating.

• Avoid foods that are known to cause bloating such as processed foods like frozen meals, canned soups, chips, crackers, cured meats, and refined grains.

• Avoid eating rapidly, chewing gums, and drinking carbonated beverages, all of which can induce bloating while taking Pristiq.

• Avoid swallowing too much air and try to slow your food slowly to aid the digestion process and prevent bloating.

• Eat smaller and more frequent meals throughout the day, rather than eating larger meals. Smaller meals put less pressure on the digestive system, which means it can work more efficiently and cause less bloating.

What are Pristiq alternatives if it causes persistent bloating?

There are certain Pristiq alternatives if it causes persistent bloating such as:

• Mirtazapine: It is an antidepressant medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as TeCA (Tetra-Cyclic Antidepressants). Mirtazapine was proven to cause fewer adverse events on the GIT (Gastro-Intestinal Tract). (6)

• Fluoxetine: It is an antidepressant that belongs to the class of drugs known as SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) and is sold under the brand name Prozac. Prozac was proven to have the lowest probability of causing GI side effects including bloating and constipation. (7)

• Escitalopram: It is an antidepressant that belongs to the class of drugs known as SSRIs and is sold under the brand name Lexapro. Escitalopram was shown to be well-tolerated in certain individuals than other SSRIs and was shown to cause fewer GI-related adverse effects. (7)

Based on my knowledge and research, Pristiq can cause bloating in certain individuals. In my opinion, every person differs in their response to different medications, and not everyone will experience bloating while taking Pristiq.

To get the best results, I recommend that you follow your healthcare provider’s guidelines and practice the tips and recommendations for managing bloating that have been discussed.

However, if you experience bloating while taking Pristiq, consult your healthcare provider about reducing your medication dose or switching to an alternative with fewer adverse events.

References