Does Pristiq Cause Diabetes? (+3 Risk Factors)

In this article, we will discuss whether Pristiq causes diabetes. We will also discuss the link between Pristiq and diabetes and share evidence from research and other relevant information. 

Does Pristiq cause diabetes?

No, Pristiq does not cause diabetes and it is not an officially documented side effect of Pristiq. However, Pristiq may increase the risk of diabetes in some individuals due to its ability to increase blood sugar. Not everyone taking Pristiq experiences this side effect. 

Pristiq is the brand for desvenlafaxine which is an antidepressant and a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). While Pristiq does not cause diabetes directly, it can increase the risk of diabetes in some people as it may cause hyperglycemia and weight gain. 

What is the link between Pristiq and diabetes?

Pristiq is not directly associated with diabetes but it can increase the risk factors for diabetes due to its effects on different metabolic processes. Pristiq increases serotonin concentration in the body which plays different roles in the peripheral tissues (1). 

In the periphery, serotonin modulates the balance, intake, and expenditure of energy. Serotonin also influences appetite, digestion, and the production of insulin in the body. It also promotes intestinal motility and enhances nutrition absorption and storage (1). 

Studies have shown that drugs that increase serotonin concentration can be linked with obesity and type 2 diabetes. Studies also suggest that limiting serotonin in the body’s tissues can be a therapeutic approach to combat obesity and type 2 diabetes (1). 

Evidence suggests that the consumption of a high-fat diet results in elevated levels of serotonin in the body. Increased serotonin is observed in obese individuals. High serotonin activity is found in individuals with high fasting blood glucose and HbA1C (1). 

As increased serotonin is positively associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes, Pristiq may increase the risk of diabetes in some individuals because it elevates serotonin concentration in the body. 

What does research suggest?

Antidepressants like Pristiq have been associated with an increased risk of diabetes. In one study, 35,552 participants were treated with different antidepressants including desvenlafaxine, the generic of Pristiq (2). 

In this study, 6.6% (2943) of patients developed type 2 diabetes. The study concluded that antidepressant use can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes in some individuals (2). 

Another study was conducted on women with depression who were in their post-menopausal phase. The women were observed for over 7.6 years. Results revealed that long-term use of antidepressants like SNRIs can increase the risk of diabetes (3). 

Studies have been conducted to understand the efficacy and tolerability of Pristiq. A 10-month evaluation of this drug revealed that it can cause clinically significant weight gain and elevation of blood glucose in some individuals thus increasing the risk of diabetes (4). 

One case was reported in which a 59-year-old diabetic female was being treated with Pristiq for depression. After starting the medication, an increased glucose level was observed in the patient. Pristiq was associated with glucose dysregulation and hyperglycemia in this case study (5). 

What factors increase the risk of diabetes while taking Pristiq?

Certain factors contribute to the development of diabetes in an individual. The risk of diabetes is further exacerbated if these individuals are taking Pristiq. These factors are as follows: 

Age: 

Age is a non-modifiable risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Older adults are more susceptible to diabetes because of the increased insulin resistance and changes in metabolism and muscle mass. Older adults taking Pristiq are at a higher risk of developing diabetes. 

Increased weight:

Individuals who have a BMI equal to or more than 25 are considered overweight and are at risk of diabetes. Excessive fat accumulation in the body creates insulin resistance and results in hyperglycemia. Overweight individuals taking Pristiq are more susceptible to diabetes. 

Lifestyle: 

Individuals who are physically inactive and have poor dietary habits are more susceptible to developing diabetes. A diet high in processed foods and unhealthy fats can cause weight gain, insulin resistance, and ultimately diabetes. 

What to do if Pristiq affects your blood sugar levels?

You may experience hyperglycemia while taking Pristiq. If you are diabetic, your healthcare provider will regularly monitor your blood sugar levels to avoid complications. You can identify hyperglycemia by the following symptoms (6):

• increased thirst
• increased urination
• tiredness
• altered mental status
• blood vision

If you experience the above-mentioned symptoms while taking Pristiq, immediately contact your healthcare provider. Do not stop the medication abruptly as you can experience withdrawal symptoms. Do not cut the tablet in half for dose reduction. 

Your healthcare provider may consider dose reduction as Pristiq causes heightened side effects at higher doses. If hyperglycemia is clinically significant, the healthcare provider may switch to alternative treatment. 

While taking Pristiq, you must focus on your dietary habits and physical activity levels. Your diet must comprise fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, and legumes. You should avoid highly processed foods and high-fat meals to maintain your weight and sugar levels. 

Exercising 150 minutes per week is recommended to maintain good health. Physical activity helps you to have a healthy weight and improves insulin sensitivity. Thus you should modify your lifestyle to mitigate the risks of diabetes while taking Pristiq. 

In my perspective, Pristiq does not cause diabetes and it is not a documented side effect. However, Pristiq can contribute to the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It happens because it raises serotonin levels in the body, which is positively associated with weight gain, hyperglycemia, and risk of diabetes. Older adults, overweight individuals, and people with a poor lifestyle are more susceptible to diabetes while taking Pristiq. If you experience the symptoms of high blood sugar while taking this medication, you must contact your healthcare provider. 

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