Connect
Pain and stiff neck with Pristiq
I have been taking 25mg of Desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) for just under 5 weeks. I've had quite a few side effects including, inability to sleep at night - sometimes I can sleep early in the morning or catnap throughout the day, anxiety, nervousness, blurry vision, sweating, slightly increased heart rate, and a stronger beat with one incident of extremely fast beating that only lasted about 8 beats. Some of these have abated a bit, the heart rate is disconcerting. However, about a week ago I woke with a very stiff neck and pain in the back of my neck radiating up into my head. Today this was worse and I am unable to turn my head without a lot of pain. There is a feeling of tightness in the upper back of my neck and head. Has anyone else experienced this? I've left messages with the nurse that prescribed it but I have not heard back. I'm ready to ween myself off if this has not gotten better by tomorrow. Thanks in advance for any feedback.
Like
Helpful
HugInterested in more discussions like this? Go to the Depression & Anxiety Support Group.
Connect
I have not taken this medication. This may have to do with more anxiety and possibly clenching your teeth. Only a thought. I am sorry no one has returned your call. some medications can cause unusual symptoms.
I am hoping someone here may have some helpful input about the medication.
@steve1960 I wonder too if this may be a result of one or more of your side effects you described above, meaning that lack of sleep, anxiousness, stress has caused tightness in your back and resulted in a stiff neck/neck pain?
One simple thing I do when I feel my back/neck tightening up is to use a rice sock/bag. You can also use a heating pad if you have one. If you don't have one, you can make a rice sock. You simply fill a clean, long sock with rice and tie a knot at the top. From there, you can microwave it to heat it to a desired temperature and apply to your neck.
Have you tried any relaxation techniques to relieve tension in your back and neck as a starting point while you wait to hear back from the nurse/doctor?
-
Like -
Helpful -
Hug
2 Reactions