Side Effects of desvenlafaxine: A Synthesis of Findings from 29 Studies

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Original Abstract of the Article

Major Findings

Multiple studies examining the efficacy and tolerability of desvenlafaxine have shown that this drug is effective in treating major depressive disorder. 24 , 23 , 18 , 17 , 22 , 3 . In addition, it has been suggested that it may be effective in treating menopausal vasomotor symptoms. 20 . However, 4 states that further research is needed on the effects on the heart in older adults or patients at high risk for cardiovascular disease.

Reasons for side effects

Desvenlafaxine is a drug that inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine. 7 . By increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters, depression symptoms improve, but this also increases the potential for various side effects. The reason for side effects is due to an imbalance in neurotransmitters. In particular, an increase in serotonin levels can lead to side effects such as nausea, indigestion, anxiety, and insomnia. In addition, an increase in norepinephrine levels can lead to side effects such as high blood pressure, tachycardia, and sweating. 7 .

Common side effects

Nausea

Desvenlafaxine has been reported to cause gastrointestinal side effects including nausea. 23 , 21 , 7 , 3 . This is thought to be due to changes in the gastrointestinal system caused by increased serotonin levels. 7 .

Constipation

Desvenlafaxine has been reported to cause constipation. 3 , 7 . This is thought to be due to the slowing of bowel movements caused by increased serotonin levels. 7 .

Diarrhea

Desvenlafaxine has been reported to cause diarrhea. 3 , 7 . This is thought to be due to the speeding up of bowel movements caused by increased serotonin levels. 7 .

Dizziness

Desvenlafaxine has been reported to cause dizziness. 3 , 7 . This is thought to be due to blood pressure fluctuations caused by increased norepinephrine levels. 7 .

Insomnia

Desvenlafaxine has been reported to cause insomnia. 3 , 7 . This is thought to be due to disturbances in sleep rhythms caused by increased serotonin levels. 7 .

Sweating

Desvenlafaxine has been reported to cause sweating. 7 . This is thought to be due to changes in the autonomic nervous system caused by increased norepinephrine levels. 7 .

Weight gain

Desvenlafaxine has been reported to cause weight gain. 7 . This is thought to be due to increased appetite caused by increased serotonin levels. 7 .

Sexual dysfunction

Desvenlafaxine has been reported to cause sexual dysfunction. 21 . This is thought to be due to decreased libido caused by increased serotonin levels. 21 .

High blood pressure

Desvenlafaxine has been reported to cause high blood pressure. 24 , 7 . This is thought to be due to vasoconstriction caused by increased norepinephrine levels. 7 .

Tachycardia

Desvenlafaxine has been reported to cause tachycardia. 7 . This is thought to be due to an increased heart rate caused by increased norepinephrine levels. 7 .

Tremors

Desvenlafaxine has been reported to cause tremors. 7 . This is thought to be due to muscle tension caused by increased norepinephrine levels. 7 .

Anxiety

Desvenlafaxine has been reported to cause anxiety. 7 . This is thought to be due to nerve hypersensitivity caused by increased serotonin levels. 7 .

Side effect management

Nausea

Gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea can be alleviated by sticking to meal times, eating small meals several times a day, and drinking plenty of fluids. 7 .

Constipation

Constipation can be treated by eating a diet high in fiber, drinking plenty of fluids, and exercising. If necessary, you can also consult a doctor and have laxatives prescribed. 7 .

Diarrhea

Diarrhea can be treated by eating easily digestible foods, drinking plenty of fluids, and taking probiotics. Consult your doctor if necessary. 7 .

Dizziness

If you feel dizzy, get up slowly. Also, try to rest by sitting or lying down. If you experience severe dizziness, consult a doctor. 7 .

Insomnia

If you are concerned about insomnia, it is important to maintain a regular sleep routine, avoid caffeine before bed, and find relaxing methods. If necessary, you can consult a doctor and have sleeping pills prescribed. 7 .

Sweating

If you are concerned about sweating, try wearing absorbent clothing and drinking plenty of fluids. If you experience excessive sweating, consult a doctor. 7 .

Weight gain

If you are concerned about weight gain, it is important to follow a diet and exercise program. Consult your doctor for appropriate advice if necessary. 7 .

Sexual dysfunction

If you are concerned about sexual dysfunction, consult your doctor. You may need to change medications or consider other treatment options. 21 .

High blood pressure

If you are concerned about high blood pressure, consult a doctor. You may need to make lifestyle changes or take antihypertensive medication. 7 .

Tachycardia

If you are concerned about tachycardia, consult your doctor. You may need to change medications or consider other treatment options. 7 .

Tremors

If you are concerned about tremors, consult your doctor. You may need to change medications or consider other treatment options. 7 .

Anxiety

If you are concerned about anxiety, consult your doctor. You may need to change medications or consider other treatment options. 7 .

Comparison of Studies

Similarities

Multiple studies have shown that desvenlafaxine is effective in treating major depressive disorder. Also, many studies have reported side effects such as nausea, constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, insomnia, sweating, weight gain, sexual dysfunction, high blood pressure, tachycardia, tremors, and anxiety. 24 , 23 , 18 , 17 , 22 , 21 , 7 , 3 .

Differences

There are differences in the incidence and severity of side effects depending on the study. Some studies suggest that desvenlafaxine may be effective in treating menopausal vasomotor symptoms. 20 . However, 4 states that further research is needed on the effects on the heart in older adults or patients at high risk for cardiovascular disease. 4 .

Things to be careful about in real-life application

Desvenlafaxine is an effective drug for treating depression, but it can cause a variety of side effects. Therefore, it is important to always follow your doctor’s instructions when taking it and to consult your doctor immediately if you experience any side effects. 7 . In particular, older adults and patients at high risk for cardiovascular disease are more likely to experience side effects and should be careful. 4 . Also, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before taking this medication. 7 .

Limitations of current research

Research on desvenlafaxine is still not sufficient. In particular, research on long-term side effects is lacking. There is also a lack of research on older adults and patients at high risk for cardiovascular disease. 4 .

Future research directions

Further research on desvenlafaxine is needed on long-term side effects, safety for older adults and patients at high risk for cardiovascular disease, safety for pregnant or breastfeeding women, and interactions with other drugs. 4 .

Conclusion

Desvenlafaxine is an effective drug for treating depression, but it can cause a variety of side effects. Therefore, it is important to always follow your doctor’s instructions when taking it and to consult your doctor immediately if you experience any side effects. 7 . Further research on desvenlafaxine is expected to lead to the development of safer and more effective treatment methods. 4 .

Literature analysis of 29 papers
Positive Content
24
Neutral Content
2
Negative Content
3
Article Type
4
2
2
11
28
1.

Efficacy and tolerability of desvenlafaxine in the real-world treatment of patients with major depression: a narrative review and an expert opinion paper.

Author: SampognaGaia, CaraciFilippo, CarmassiClaudia, Dell'OssoBernardo, FerrariSilvia, MartinottiGiovanni, SaniGabriele, SerafiniGianluca, SignorelliMaria Salvina, FiorilloAndrea

Antidepressants
MDD treatment
Psychosocial interventions
Psychotherapy
Tailored therapy

Major depressive disorder (MDD) requires a tailored and integrated treatment plan based on individual clinical, personal, and contextual factors.

ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

2.

A comprehensive review and meta-analysis of neurological side effects related to second-generation antidepressants in individuals with major depressive disorder.

Author: ZhouQi, LiXinming, YangDejiang, XiongChongyu, XiongZhenrong

Depression treatment
Neurological side effects

This meta-analysis found that most second-generation antidepressants increase the risk of neurological side effects compared to placebo. Agomelatine, bupropion, and vortioxetine showed a reduced risk of specific neurological side effects.

Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

3.

Gastrointestinal side effects associated with antidepressant treatments in patients with major depressive disorder: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Author: OlivaVincenzo, LippiMatteo, PaciRiccardo, Del FabroLorenzo, DelvecchioGiuseppe, BrambillaPaolo, De RonchiDiana, FanelliGiuseppe, SerrettiAlessandro

Antidepressant efficacy
Gastrointestinal side effects

This meta-analysis evaluated short-term rates of gastrointestinal side effects (SEs) in major depressive disorder (MDD) patients treated with second-generation antidepressants. Escitalopram and sertraline showed the highest rates of SEs, while mirtazapine had fewer gastrointestinal side effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Meta-AnalysisA statistical technique that integrates the results of multiple studies to draw more general conclusions about a particular issue.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

4.

The Cardiovascular Effects of Newer Antidepressants in Older Adults and Those With or At High Risk for Cardiovascular Diseases.

Author: BehlkeLauren M, LenzeEric J, CarneyRobert M

Depression treatment
Cardiovascular side effects

Depression is a common mental health condition that can affect people of all ages, including older adults. While selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are often the first-line treatment for depression, many patients do not respond to these medications. This review summarizes what is known about the cardiovascular side effects of some of the newer antidepressants, including venlafaxine, desvenlafaxine, duloxetine, milnacipran, levomilnacipran, mirtazapine, bupropion, vilazodone, vortioxetine, agomelatine, moclobemide, and ketamine-esketamine. While some of these drugs may be safe and effective alternatives for older adults and patients with cardiovascular disease, more research is needed to fully understand their safety and efficacy in these patient populations.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

5.

Desvenlafaxine-associated hyperglycemia: A case report and literature review.

Author: MekonnenAndrea D, MillsAubrey A, WilhiteAndrea L, HoffmanTheresa K

Anxiety treatment
Depression treatment
Hyperglycemia

Desvenlafaxine, an antidepressant, may cause hyperglycemia in some patients with diabetes. This case report describes a patient who experienced increased blood sugar levels after starting desvenlafaxine, highlighting the need to monitor blood sugar levels carefully in patients taking this medication.

Case ReportsIn the medical field, a report that describes in detail a unique case, an unusual medical condition, or the effect of a treatment. Provides new insights and possibilities for treatment through individual patient cases.

Language : English

8.

Signal Detection for Recently Approved Products: Adapting and Evaluating Self-Controlled Case Series Method Using a US Claims and UK Electronic Medical Records Database.

Author: ZhouXiaofeng, DouglasIan J, ShenRongjun, BateAndrew

Signal detection

The study found that SCCS shows promise for signal detection: it may highlight known associations for recent marketed products and has potential for early signal identification.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

9.

What type and dose of antidepressants are cancer and non-cancer inpatients being prescribed: a retrospective case-control study at an Australian tertiary hospital.

Author: SanjidaSaira, MulvogueKelly, ShawJoanne, CouperJeremy, KissaneDavid, PearsonSallie-Anne, PriceMelanie A, JandaMonika

Antidepressant prescription
Side effect assessment
Drug-drug interactions

This study compared the prescription practices of antidepressants to cancer and non-cancer inpatients, finding that antidepressants are frequently prescribed to cancer patients but not always in similar types and doses as for non-cancer patients. The study also assessed side effects and potential drug-drug interactions.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

11.

A pooled analysis of the efficacy of desvenlafaxine for the treatment of major depressive disorder in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women.

Author: KornsteinSusan G, ClaytonAnita H, BaoWeihang, Guico-PabiaChristine J

Depression treatment

Desvenlafaxine, an antidepressant, may be effective in treating major depressive disorder (MDD) in both perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. This study will evaluate desvenlafaxine's efficacy in these two groups of women with MDD.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

13.

Antidepressants for depression in stage 3-5 chronic kidney disease: a systematic review of pharmacokinetics, efficacy and safety with recommendations by European Renal Best Practice (ERBP).

Author: NaglerEvi V, WebsterAngela C, VanholderRaymond, ZoccaliCarmine

Improved quality of life
Increase survival
Reduce hospitalizations

This systematic review examines the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of antidepressant drugs in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). The review highlights the need for dose adjustments in CKD patients and explores the potential benefits and risks of antidepressants in this population.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.
Systematic ReviewA review that systematically collects, evaluates, and integrates relevant research to answer a specific research question.

Language : English

14.

Lack of a pharmacokinetic drug-drug interaction with venlafaxine extended-release/indinavir and desvenlafaxine extended-release/indinavir.

Author: JannMichael W, SpratlinVicky, MomaryKathryn, ZhangHailing, TurnerDavid, PenzakScott R, WrightAlan, VanDenBergChad

Safe treatment

Venlafaxine XR and desvenlafaxine XR did not change the way indinavir worked in the body when given together. Both antidepressants were safe for the participants, with only minor side effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

16.

Managing menopausal symptoms and depression in tamoxifen users: implications of drug and medicinal interactions.

Author: DesmaraisJulie Eve, LooperKarl J

Drug interactions

Tamoxifen, a breast cancer medication, often causes menopausal symptoms. Certain medications and natural supplements used to alleviate these symptoms can interact with tamoxifen.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

17.

Short-term efficacy and safety of desvenlafaxine in a randomized, placebo-controlled study of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women with major depressive disorder.

Author: KornsteinSusan G, JiangQin, ReddySujana, MusgnungJeff J, Guico-PabiaChristine J

MDD treatment
Short-term efficacy

This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of desvenlafaxine in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women with major depressive disorder (MDD). The results show that desvenlafaxine is effective in treating MDD in this population.

Clinical Trial, Phase IIIA Phase III trial is a trial that further rigorously verifies the efficacy and safety of a new drug or treatment, whose efficacy and safety have been confirmed in a Phase II trial, in a large number of patients, and evaluates whether it is superior to existing treatments.
Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

19.

What can be done about hot flushes after treatment for breast cancer?

Author: KontosM, AgbajeO F, RymerJ, FentimanI S

Hot flush relief
Limited effectiveness
Side effects

Desvenlafaxine and stellate ganglion block show promise in treating hot flushes in breast cancer survivors, while other treatments often have minimal benefit or significant side effects.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

20.

[Non-hormonal treatment for vasomotor symptoms during menopause: role of desvenlafaxine].

Author: LilueMariella, PalaciosSantiago

Efficacy for VMS
Nausea risk

Desvenlafaxine, a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, has shown efficacy for vasomotor symptoms (VMS). However, it also increased the incidence of minor side effects, especially nausea, at the beginning of treatment.

English AbstractA summary of a research paper/publication written in English for a wider audience.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : Spanish

21.

Sexual side-effects of contemporary antidepressants: review.

Author: SchweitzerIsaac, MaguireKay, NgChee

Depression treatment
Sexual dysfunction

This study reviewed the sexual side effects of contemporary antidepressants in Australia, comparing SSRIs with venlafaxine, reboxetine, mirtazepine, duloxetine, bupropion, desvenlafaxine, and agomelatine. Bupropion and duloxetine caused significantly less sexual dysfunction than SSRIs, while reboxetine showed similar results in both short- and long-term studies.

Comparative StudyResearch that compares multiple groups/interventions to determine differences/similarities in outcomes/characteristics.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

23.

Desvenlafaxine succinate for major depressive disorder: a critical review of the evidence.

Author: KamathJayesh, HandrattaVenkatesh

Treat MDD
Discontinuation symptoms

Desvenlafaxine succinate (DVS) is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) approved for treating major depressive disorder (MDD). DVS has demonstrated efficacy in clinical trials, but its effectiveness is moderate compared to other antidepressants.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

24.

Efficacy, safety, and tolerability of desvenlafaxine 50 mg/day and 100 mg/day in outpatients with major depressive disorder.

Author: LiebowitzMichael R, ManleyAmy L, PadmanabhanSudharshan K, GangulyRita, TummalaRaj, TourianKaren A

Desvenlafaxine 100mg efficacy
Desvenlafaxine 50mg efficacy
Constipation
Decreased appetite
Dizziness
Dry mouth
Hyperhidrosis
Insomnia

Desvenlafaxine 50 mg/day was associated with significantly greater improvement in Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression scores compared with placebo. Desvenlafaxine 100 mg/day was well-tolerated and demonstrated significant improvement on secondary efficacy measures.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Multicenter StudyResearch conducted in collaboration with multiple research institutions. It aims to collect a wide range of data and obtain more generalizable results.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

26.

New products and regimens (since 2003).

Author: PanayN

Menopause symptom relief
Osteoporosis treatment
Profitability decisions
Side effects

The use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) has stabilized after initial declines following the Women's Health Initiative and Million Women studies. New HRT products with lower doses and improved safety profiles are being developed. Non-hormonal options for vasomotor symptoms and a new female androgen patch are also under development.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
ReviewAn article that critically examines existing research on a particular topic and summarizes the current state of knowledge in the field.

Language : English

27.

CYP2D6 polymorphism and clinical effect of the antidepressant venlafaxine.

Author: ShamsM E E, ArnethB, HiemkeC, DragicevicA, MüllerM J, KaiserR, LacknerK, HärtterS

Depressive disorder treatment

Venlafaxine, a mixed serotonin and noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor, is metabolized by the cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzyme CYP2D6 to yield an active metabolite, O-desmethylvenlafaxine.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.

Language : English

28.

CYP2D6 genotype and venlafaxine-XR concentrations in depressed elderly.

Author: WhyteEllen M, RomkesMarjorie, MulsantBenoit H, KirshneMargaret A, BegleyAmy E, ReynoldsCharles F, PollockBruce G

Cardiovascular adverse events

The CYP2D6 polymorphism was investigated for its role in venlafaxine and o-desmethylvenlafaxine plasma concentrations in elderly patients receiving venlafaxine-XR.

Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Research Support, N.I.H., ExtramuralResearch funding provided by the NIH to external research institutions and researchers.

Language : English

29.

Efficacy and tolerability of venlafaxine in geriatric outpatients with major depression: a double-blind, randomised 6-month comparative trial with citalopram.

Author: AllardPer, GramLars, TimdahlKristina, BehnkeKirsten, HansonMartin, SøgaardJesper

Depression treatment
Nausea
Tremor
Vomiting

Venlafaxine extended release (ER) and citalopram are equally effective in treating major depression in elderly patients. Both drugs are well-tolerated and induce similar beneficial effects.

Clinical TrialA clinical trial is a planned study conducted on humans to evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and treatment methods. It aims to explore the possibilities of new treatments and improve the health of patients.
Journal ArticleAn article published in an academic or professional journal that reports original research or scholarly analysis.
Randomized Controlled TrialA clinical trial that randomly assigns participants to treatment and control groups to evaluate the effects of an intervention.
Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov'tResearch funding provided by government agencies outside the United States.

Language : English

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