Pristiq Indications/Uses

PRISTIQ, a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), is indicated for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD). The efficacy of PRISTIQ has been established in four 8-week, placebo-controlled studies of outpatients who met DSM-IV criteria for major depressive disorder.
A major depressive episode (DSM-IV) implies a prominent and relatively persistent (nearly every day for at least 2 weeks) depressed or dysphoric mood that usually interferes with daily functioning, and includes at least 5 of the following 9 symptoms: depressed mood, loss of interest in usual activities, significant change in weight and/or appetite, insomnia or hypersomnia, psychomotor agitation or retardation, increased fatigue, feelings of guilt or worthlessness, slowed thinking or impaired concentration, or a suicide attempt or suicidal ideation.
The efficacy of PRISTIQ in maintaining a response in major depressive disorder for up to 24 weeks following 12 weeks of acute treatment was demonstrated in a placebo-controlled trial. Nevertheless, the physician who elects to use PRISTIQ for extended periods, i.e., beyond 9 months, should continue to periodically re-evaluate the long-term usefulness of the drug for the individual patients.