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Desvenlafaxine in the treatment of major depression: an updated overview.

Author(s)
Norman, Trevor R
Olver, James S
Publication Date
2021-06
Abstract
Introduction: Major depressive disorder (MDD) remains one of the most prevalent mental health conditions. It is a chronic, relapsing condition and despite multiple treatment options, many patients fail to achieve remission of symptoms. Inadequacy of treatment has stimulated the search for agents with significant therapeutic advantages.Areas covered: This review examines literature concerning the use of desvenlafaxine in the treatment of MDD published since a previous analysis in this journal in 2014. Published papers were identified via a PubMed and Web of Science search and excluded congress presentations. Results from clinical trials in MDD, systematic reviews and post hoc analyses in patient subgroups, are reviewed.Expert opinion: Desvenlafaxine was an effective antidepressant with favourable safety and tolerability in adults. Efficacy was demonstrated in the subgroup of peri- and post-menopausal women with MDD but not in children and adolescents. There is a relatively low potential for drug-drug interactions due to its metabolic profile. Hepatic impairment does not significantly alter dose requirements, whereas severe renal disease requires some adjustments of dose. Desvenlafaxine maybe suitable in patients with comorbid physical illnesses. Desvenlafaxine can be a first line consideration for the treatment of cases of MDD uncomplicated by medical comorbidities.
Citation
Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy 2021; 22(9): 1087-1097
Jornal Title
Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy
Link
Subject
adolescents
adverse drug events
children
desvenlafaxine
drug-drug interaction
major depressive disorder
mechanism
pharmacokinetics
treatment efficacy
Title
Desvenlafaxine in the treatment of major depression: an updated overview.
Type of document
Journal Article

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