Does Pristiq cause shortness of breath (SOB)? (+3 findings)

In this article, we will discuss whether or not Pristiq causes shortness of breath, clinical trials and reports on SOB (shortness of breath) associated with Pristiq use, potential side effects of Pristiq, the factors that may contribute to SOB while taking Pristiq, what you should do if you experience shortness of breath while taking Pristiq, and Pristiq alternatives if it causes persistent SOB symptoms.

Does Pristiq cause SOB?

Yes, Pristiq can cause shortness of breath (SOB). Even though it’s not a common side effect of Pristiq, it’s crucial to note that this side effect can be serious. (1)

Pristiq is the brand name of the antidepressant medication desvenlafaxine which belongs to the class of drugs known as the SNRIs (Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors). Pristiq functions by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. (2)

The mechanism of action of Pristiq in causing shortness of breath is not fully understood. However, it is thought to be related to its effect on the serotonin and norepinephrine levels. These neurotransmitters play a role in regulating the body’s response to stress and can affect your breathing patterns.

Elevated serotonin and norepinephrine levels may alter the way the brain regulates breathing. Serotonin plays a role in breathing regulation and increased serotonin levels may lead to a decrease in oxygen levels in the blood that may result in shortness of breath. (3)

However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanism of action of Pristiq in causing shortness of breath.

It is crucial to seek medical attention immediately if you experience SOB while taking Pristiq.

What does research suggest?

According to research studies, a 52-year-old man with MDD (Major Depressive Disorder) was given a 50 mg dose of desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) to address his depression symptoms. Then, his dosage was raised to 100 mg of desvenlafaxine.

After increasing his dose, the patient reported that he experienced mild, persistent dyspnea (difficulty breathing) and SOB (Shortness of Breath), along with other lung symptoms such as bronchitis. Despite discontinuing desvenlafaxine, the pneumonia and dyspnea symptoms persisted.

The study concluded that desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) can cause SOB and lung-related side effects such as pneumonia in certain individuals if used for a long period of time. (3)

What are the potential side effects of Pristiq?

There are several side effects that may result from taking Pristiq such as: (4)

Common side effects

• Xerostomia (dry mouth).
• Insomnia (inability to sleep).
• Constipation.
• Unusual dreams.
• Fatigue.
• Night sweats.
• Loss of appetite.
• Drowsiness.
• Nausea.
• Dizziness and headaches.
• Sexual dysfunction.

Serious side effects

• Long-lasting confusion or frequent muscle spasms.
• Tachycardia (fast heart rate) and SOB (Shortness of Breath).
• Blurred vision or any vision changes.
• Bleeding from any of your bodily parts such as blood in urine or feces, changes in the menstrual cycle, coughing up blood, or bleeding gums.
• Unexplained euphoria or excessive happiness and restlessness (inability to sit or stand still).
• Suicidal thoughts.

These side effects are life-threatening and may result from excessive doses of Pristiq. Seek medical attention immediately if you encounter any of these serious side effects.

What factors may contribute to SOB while taking Pristiq?

There are several factors that may contribute to SOB while taking Pristiq such as: (5), (6), (7)

• Medication dose: High dosages of Pristiq may cause Shortness of breath in certain individuals.
• Underlying medical conditions: Certain medical conditions such as asthma, COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease), other lung diseases, and heart diseases may induce SOB while taking Pristiq.
• Concomitant medications: Certain medications such as prednisone and opioids can induce shortness of breath while taking Pristiq.
• Smoking: Nicotine can induce shortness of breath and cause several lung diseases.
• Air pollution: Environmental and air pollution can induce SOB while taking Pristiq.

What should you do if you experience SOB while taking Pristiq?

If Pristiq causes persistent SOB, consult your healthcare provider about reducing your medication dose. Your healthcare provider might gradually reduce your Pristiq dose over a period of 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.

Additionally, your healthcare provider will thoroughly evaluate your situation to determine whether Pristiq is the cause of SOB or whether there is an underlying medical condition such as asthma or COPD that causes shortness of breath and dyspnea symptoms.

If Pristiq is the cause of SOB and is persistent despite reducing your dose, your healthcare provider might switch you to an alternative with fewer adverse events.

What are Pristiq alternatives if it causes persistent SOB?

There are certain Pristiq alternatives with fewer breathing side effects such as:

• Sertraline: It is an antidepressant that is sold under the brand name Zoloft and belongs to the class of drugs known as the SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors). According to certain research studies, sertraline was proven effective in reducing chronic breathlessness. (8)

• Mirtazapine: It is an atypical antidepressant sold under the brand name Remeron. Mirtazapine was reported to be effective in treating patients with depression. Additionally, mirtazapine reduced their breathlessness symptoms. (9)

Based on my knowledge and research, Pristiq can cause shortness of breath in certain individuals. In my opinion, it is not a common side effect of Pristiq and every individual differs in their response to different medications.

Consult your healthcare provider if you experience SOB while taking Pristiq. They might reduce your dose or switch you to an alternative with fewer adverse events.

References