Is Pristiq like Xanax? (+3 differences)

In this article, we will discuss whether Pristiq is similar to Xanax or not. We will dig deep into some common differences between Pristiq and Xanax. We will further discover the best ways to choose between Pristiq and Xanax. 

Is Pristiq like Xanax?

No, Pristiq is not like Xanax. These are two medications with different mechanisms of action and therapeutic effects belonging to different classes of drugs. Pristiq and Xanax may have a few similarities as they both affect brain chemistry. 

Pristiq is an SNRI medication that increases the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain by inhibiting their reuptake, thus increasing the amount and activity of these neurotransmitters (1). 

Whereas, Xanax is a benzodiazepine that exerts its effects by lowering the excitability of the brain. Xanax is approved for the treatment of generalized anxiety and panic disorders (2). 

Pristiq and Xanax are prescription medications used for various psychiatric illnesses. However, different patients may experience and respond to these medications varyingly based on their metabolism, age, race, and health condition. 

What are the basic differences between Pristiq and Xanax?

Some basic differences between Pristiq and Xanax are discussed below: 

Mechanism of action

Pristiq (Desvenlafaxine) belongs to the SNRI antidepressants class that inhibits the reuptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine. Thus, this inhibition increases the amounts of these neurotransmitters in the brain that help in maintaining mental balance (1,3). 

Xanax (Alprazolam) is a benzodiazepine medication that exerts its action by binding to the GABA-A receptors. Xanax enhances the effects of GABA by increasing its affinity at GABA-A receptors (2). 

Due to this increased affinity to GABA-A receptors, the brain experiences the inhibitory effects of GABA, which is an inhibitory neurotransmitter. Through this mechanism, Xanax exerts calming and inhibitory effects on the nervous system (2).  

Clinical efficacy

Pristiq is approved by the FDA for the treatment of major depressive disorder in patients. It is also used off-label to treat hot flashes in women during menopause (1,3). 

Xanax is one of the most commonly prescribed psychotropic medications. The FDA-approved therapeutic uses of Xanax include (2):

• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Panic disorders

Xanax is also used off-label for the treatment of (4):

• Insomnia
• Premenstrual syndrome 
• Depression

Side effects

Pristiq is associated with a broad range of side effects. Some common side effects of Pristiq are (1,3):

• Constipation
• Loss of appetite
• Dry mouth
• Nightmares
• Sleepiness
• Dizziness
• Night sweats
• Difficulty in urination
• Sexual problems in men and women

Suicidal thoughts, Increased heart rate, rashes, seizures, swelling, fever, and coma are some serious adverse effects of Pristiq. You may seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms appear (1,3).  

Xanax is also associated with some side effects which are as follows (2):

• Drowsiness and dizziness
• Insomnia
• Extreme tiredness
• Slurred speech
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• Irritability
• Nausea and vomiting
• Dry mouth
• Decreased mental alertness
• Swelling of hands or feet
• Headache
• Weight changes

However, these side effects vary from person to person. Every patient taking Pristiq or Xanax may experience a different set of side effects. Careful monitoring should be done to avoid adverse events.

Potential for addiction and abuse

Pristiq and Xanax are both prescription medications and possess the potential for addiction and misuse. 

Pristiq does not have a high potential for abuse. However, it should be taken under a doctor’s guidance and supervision. Strictly follow your doctor’s guidelines to avoid any withdrawal symptoms linked with Pristiq. 

Xanax has a higher potential for addiction, dependence, and abuse in patients. Long-term use of Xanax may cause tolerance and dependence therefore, doctors prefer short-term use of Xanax to avoid dependency and addiction. 

Xanax also affects the dopaminergic system in the striatum which is similar to stimulants which contributes to an increased potential of Xanax misuse. An increase in extracellular dopamine concentrations due to Xanax induces stimulatory effects causing addiction and abuse (4). 

Withdrawal symptoms

Pristiq is associated with causing withdrawal symptoms in patients who stop taking the medication abruptly. By taking Pristiq for a long time, the body gets accustomed to it, and suddenly stopping it leads to withdrawal symptoms. 

Abruptly stopping Pristiq may cause irritability, nausea, headache, sleep disturbances, weight and appetite changes, and hallucinations in patients (1). 

Xanax, on the other, is also associated with withdrawal symptoms. Long-term treatment with Xanax and abrupt discontinuation may cause acute withdrawal. Patients may experience delirium, psychosis, seizures, confusion, and disorientation with Xanax withdrawal (2).  

How to choose between Pristiq and Xanax?

The most appropriate way to choose a drug is to follow your doctor’s prescription. Talk to your healthcare provider and discuss all your signs and symptoms with them to get an effective and safe treatment. 

Your doctor may assess your health condition and based on the symptoms that you possess, they can prescribe you the right drug that may benefit in your treatment.

Pristiq and Xanax possess different therapeutic effects and based on your health, allergies, medical history, concomitant medication, or underlying condition, your doctor may choose between Pristiq or Xanax that suits you best to alleviate your psychiatric symptoms and bring you therapeutic relief. 

In conclusion, I would emphasize that consult and talk to your doctor about your signs and symptoms with honesty, so that they might not prescribe the wrong medication for you and choose the one that suits you best without causing harmful adverse effects.

Even if the medication does not suit you and is not helping you alleviate your psychiatric symptoms, consult your doctor for a dose reduction or medication change. However, do not take things in your hand and stop the medication abruptly which can lead to serious withdrawal symptoms. 

References