Duloxetine

Information About Duloxetine

Uses of Duloxetine

Duloxetine is commonly used to treat anxiety disorder, depression and diabetic nerve pain.

How Duloxetine Works

Duloxetine is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake Inhibitor. It has a lesser affinity towards dopamine. Thus it increases extracellular levels of serotonin and noradrenaline in various brain areas

Side Effects of Duloxetine

Headache, Nausea, Dizziness, Fatigue Dry mouth, Somnolence, Decreased appetite, Insomnia, Decreased sex drive, Tremor, Abnormal sensation, Blurred vision, Palpitations, Constipation, Diarrhea, Vomiting, Dyspepsia, Increased sweating, Rash, Musculoskeletal pain, Painful urination, Ejaculation dysfunction, Loss of weight

Authorship

Written By

Dr Sri Viknarajan

MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Duloxetine Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

Duloxetine is to be used with caution when consumed with other centrally- acting substances including alcohol due to its sedative action.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Duloxetine may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, however, there are limited human studies. The benefits from use in pregnant women may outweigh the risk. Please consult your doctor before using it.

Lactation Limited Data

Small amount of Duloxetine is excreted into breast milk but its effect on feeding baby has not been investigated. Therefore its use with breastfeeding mother is not recommended. Please consult your doctor before using it.

Driving Not advisable

Duloxetine may cause sedative side effects, dizziness and blurred vision, all of which could affect your ability to concentrate and drive.

Kidney Use With Care

Duloxetine should be used with caution in patients with mild and moderate kidney disease. Dose adjustment of Duloxetine may be needed. Please consult your doctor before using it. Use of Duloxetine is not recommended in patients with severe kidney disease.

Liver Limited Data

Duloxetine should be used with caution in patients with liver disease. Dose adjustment of Duloxetine may be needed. Please consult your doctor before using it.