Duloxetine

Description

Duloxetine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, i.e. increases the

level of serotonin in the nervous system of the body.

Uses

Contraindications

Side effects

Precautions and Warnings

Uses

Depression
Anxiety
Nerve pain or peripheral neuropathy in patients who suffer from diseases such as diabetes, fibromyalgia and arthritis

Contraindications

When should one not use Duloxetine

Allergic reaction to Duloxetine
Antidepressants like Fluvoxamine
Antibiotics like Ciprofloxacin or Enoxacin
Any severe kidney, liver or heart problems like high blood pressure.

Side effects

Common side effects of this drug are:

Nausea
Fatigue
Dry mouth
Sleepiness
Increased sweating
Loss of appetite
Constipation
Dizziness and headache
Liver damage
Serotonin syndrome
Vision problems
Hearing of abnormal sound in the ear (tinnitus)
Painful urination
Erectile problems
If you develop any unusual symptoms, consult a doctor immediately

Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy

Can I take Duloxetine during pregnancy?

It should be used in pregnant women only if necessary as it may affect the baby. Ensure that you consult your doctor if you are planning a pregnancy or are pregnant.

Breast Feeding

Can I take Duloxetine while breastfeeding?

It can be found in traces in breast milk. It has not shown to be harmful in any reports. Still, it is better to avoid this medicine during breastfeeding.

Driving

Can I drive if I have consumed Duloxetine?

You shouldn’t drive any vehicle or operate heavy machinery when under the influence of this medicine as it induces drowsiness and can cause dizziness.

Alcohol

Can I consume alcohol with Duloxetine?

You may continue to drink a small amount of alcohol while you are taking this medicine. However, excessive drinking may increase the symptoms of depression. Hence It is recommended not to drink alcohol.

Other General Warnings

Talk to your doctor if

If you are taking any depressant treatment
If you have any history of fits, eye diseases like glaucoma, bleeding tendencies
If you are taking Diuretics medicine for high blood pressure
It can severely increase the risk of having suicidal thoughts
It can cause drowsiness
It affects hormone (serotonin) levels in your brain causing confusion and agitation
It can increase the feeling of dizziness, especially when you stand up suddenly

Mode of Action

How Does It Work?

Duloxetine helps you by improving your sleep, appetite, mood and energy levels. It will also help lower your nervousness. This medicine does this by restoring balance in the enzyme levels in the brain...

Interactions

Interactions with other medicines

Duloxetine oral capsules may interact with other vitamins, medications or herbs you may be taking. An interaction is when a substance changes the way it works. This may be harmful or stop the medicine...
Read more
Serotonergic medicines like Triptans, Tryptophan, Lithium
Schizophrenia medicine like Thioridazine
Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) like Ibuprofen
Anticoagulants (blood thinners) Clopidogrel, Warfarin

Interactions with food items

There are no reports that show the Duloxetine interaction with food. It can be taken with or without food.

Dosage

Overdose

In case of an overdose of Duloxetine, immediately contact your doctor. In case of overdose, you may experience tiredness, vomiting, increased heart rate, seizures, high blood pressure and dizziness.

Missed a Dose

If you missed any dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose of medicine don’t take double dose, continue with prescribed dosage.

Content Details

WRITTEN BY

Dr. Ravi Kakarla

MBBS, MBA

REVIEWED BY

Dr. Ritu Budania

MBBS, MD (Pharmacology)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How long does it take for the Duloxetine medicine to start working?

A: You will be able to see signs of improvement in energy, appetite and sleep within the first couple of weeks itself. These improvements are a good sign that the medication is working well. It will take about 6 to 8 weeks for depression and lack of interest in things to be cured.

Q: At what time of the day should you take Duloxetine?

A: It is highly recommended that you take medicine at the same time each day. People typically take it in the morning. However, if you feel that you may be drowsy throughout the day because of it, then you can take it in the evening as well. The capsules should be taken with a glass of water and swallowed whole.

Q: Is Duloxetine a painkiller?

A: It selectively inhibits the reuptake of norepinephrine and serotonin. It can be approved only with a prescription for chronic back pain and musculoskeletal pain, which is caused due to osteoarthritis.

Q: Can you take Ibuprofen along with Duloxetine?

A: Using this medicine with Ibuprofen has a high chance of causing bleeding. This interaction is more likely in the case of someone who has liver or kidney disease or if you are old.