Does Pristiq help with peripheral neuropathy? (+3 findings)

By Ivan Kahwa
Page last updated: 05/02/2024 | Next review date: 05/02/2026
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Author bio

 

Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.

Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:

Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the  Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Professional Experience:

Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.

With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.

Education:

2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.

Publications:

▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7 

▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60 

▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.

https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683 

▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.

  https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004 

▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.

https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2 

▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.

https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600 

Published book Chapter

▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.

 https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4 

Submitted manuscripts Under Review:

▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience

▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine

▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology

Submitted book chapters under review

1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4:  Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6:  Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher:  Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.

2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors:  Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala  , Rachel Mbabazi  , Shabnoor Iqbal  , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press

 

You can view my works on the following professional sites:

 

Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa

 

Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en

ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437

Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159 

 

 

 

 


Ivan Kahwa
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In this article, we will discuss whether or not Pristiq can help with peripheral neuropathy, studies and research on the efficacy of Pristiq for peripheral neuropathy, potential side effects of using Pristiq for peripheral neuropathy, medications that are approved for treating peripheral neuropathy, and complementary therapies for managing peripheral neuropathy.

Does Pristiq help with peripheral neuropathy?

Pristiq can help treat pain associated with peripheral neuropathy. However, Pristiq is not recommended or FDA-approved for the treatment of peripheral neuropathy; rather, it is approved and indicated for the treatment of MDD (Major Depressive Disorder). 

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

Peripheral neuropathy is a condition that causes damage to your peripheral nerves, resulting in pain, tingling, and numbness in your hands and feet.

The rise in serotonin and norepinephrine levels caused by Pristiq can help reduce nerve pain and improve mood in individuals with peripheral neuropathy. (2)

It is important to note that Pristiq may not work for everyone and to discuss the approved treatment options for peripheral neuropathy with your healthcare provider.

What does research suggest?

A research study was conducted to evaluate desvenlafaxine efficacy in treating pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

412 patients were enrolled in the study and were split into two groups: one group was given a placebo, while the other group received desvenlafaxine at varying dosages ranging from 50 to 400 mg. 

The study came to the conclusion that desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) reduced the pain associated with DPN (Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy) at doses of 200-400 mg per day. Additionally, in both the short- and long-term trials, desvenlafaxine was generally well-tolerated. (2)

What are the potential side effects of Pristiq?

There are potential side effects of using Pristiq. Examples include: (3)

Common side effects

  • Nausea.
  • Constipation.
  • Insomnia (inability to sleep).
  • Dizziness and headaches.
  • Xerostomia (dry mouth).
  • Drowsiness.
  • Night sweats.

Serious side effects

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

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 medications are approved for treating peripheral neuropathy?

There are certain medications that are approved for the treatment of peripheral neuropathy. However, it is important to determine the underlying cause of peripheral neuropathy in order to prescribe a suitable medication. For example:

Diabetes can cause peripheral neuropathy. In this condition, treating patients with vitamin B12 and changing their lifestyle like consuming less alcohol, quitting smoking, keeping a healthy weight, and regular exercise will help reduce peripheral neuropathy.

Peripheral neuropathy can also be treated with certain medications such as: (4)

  • Gabapentin (Neurontin) and pregabalin (Lyrica): These anticonvulsants prevent signals from entering the neurological system and they are frequently used to treat neuropathic pain.
  • TCAs (Tri-Cyclic Antidepressants): Examples include amitriptyline (Elavil), nortriptyline (Pamelor), and desipramine (Norpramin). They alter how the body experiences pain and they are occasionally used to treat peripheral neuropathy.
  • Opioids: Hydrocodone (Vicodin) and oxycodone (Oxycontin) are strong pain relievers that may be recommended for severe peripheral neuropathy.

Complementary therapies for peripheral neuropathy

There are some complementary therapies that can be used for managing peripheral neuropathy. Examples include: (4)

  • Vitamin B1 supplements (benfotiamine): This form of vitamin can help relieve peripheral neuropathy in certain individuals along with other peripheral neuropathy medications.
  • Antioxidant supplements (alpha-lipoic acid): This supplement can help relieve pain associated with peripheral neuropathy.
  • Herbal medicine: St. John’s wort and other herbs can help relieve pain associated with peripheral neuropathy.
  • Acupuncture: It can help restore blood flow and stimulate nerve pathways in certain individuals.

Based on my knowledge and research, Pristiq can help treat the pain associated with peripheral neuropathy in certain individuals. However, every person differs in their response to different medications.

Consult your healthcare provider if you have peripheral neuropathy (PN). They will properly assess your situation, determine the underlying cause of PN, and will take the best course of action accordingly.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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References

1.-

HIGHLIGHTS OF PRESCRIBING INFORMATION [Internet]. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/021992s030lbl.pdf

2.-

Allen R, Sharma U, Barlas S. Clinical experience with desvenlafaxine in treatment of pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy. Journal of Pain Research. 2014 Jun;339. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4075949/

3.-

NHS. Side effects of venlafaxine [Internet]. nhs.uk. 2022. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/venlafaxine/side-effects-of-venlafaxine/

4.-

NHS Choices. Treatment – Peripheral neuropathy [Internet]. NHS. 2020. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/peripheral-neuropathy/treatment/

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