Yashoda Hospitals > Medicine FAQS > Duloxetine

Duloxetine: Frequently Asked Questions Answered

What is Duloxetine?

Duloxetine is an antidepressant medication, classified as a Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It is used to treat various types of anxieties and depression like major depressive disorders (MDD), generalized anxiety disorders (GAD), and pains of neuropathic origin like fibromyalgia, chronic pains, neuropathic pains associated with cancer during chemotherapy, diabetic and peripheral neuropathy.

It works by preventing the reabsorption of both neurotransmitters so that the brain contains more levels of these neurotransmitters, hence preventing depression and anxiety.

What are the uses of Duloxetine?

Duloxetine is a mood-altering drug used for different conditions associated with mental health, such as–

  • Generalized anxiety disorders.
  • Major depressive disorders.
  • Chronic neuropathic pains.
  • Nervousness and anxiousness.
  • Diabetic neuropathy.
  • Chronic muscular pains.
  • Fibromyalgia (a condition with generalized pains and muscle stiffness).
  • Stress-related urinary incontinence.

Dosages:

For anxiety and depression: 20-30 mg twice daily or a single dose of 60 mg.

For chronic and neuropathic pain: 60-120mg.

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    What are the side effects of Duloxetine?

    • Excessive sleepiness.
    • Dry mouth and mouth ulcers.
    • Dizziness.
    • Decreased vision.
    • Headache.
    • Emotional instability.
    • Rash or hives like symptoms.
    • Yellowing of eyes and jaundice.
    • Gastrointestinal issues like belching, loose motions, nausea, indigestion, etc.
    • Sexual dysfunction.
    • Suicidal tendency and mood instability.
    • Steven johnson syndrome (a severe allergic reaction causing decomposition of upper layers of skin).

    Precautions must be taken for patients with liver and kidney-related issues, pregnant and lactating mothers, adolescents with suicidal tendencies.

    What is Duloxetine

    Uses of Duloxetine

    Side effects of Duloxetine

    References

    1. https://www.rxlist.com/consumer_Duloxetine/drugs-condition.htm
    2. https://www.medicinenet.com/Duloxetine/article.htm#what_is_cymbalta_Duloxetine_and_what_is_it_used_for
    3. https://www.cochrane.org/CD007115/NEUROMUSC_Duloxetine-treating-painful-neuropathy-chronic-pain-or-fibromyalgia
    4. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-91490-2114/Duloxetine-oral/Duloxetine-sprinkle-capsule-oral/details

    Disclaimer: The information provided herein is accurate, updated and complete as per the best practices of the Company. Please note that this information should not be treated as a replacement for physical medical consultation or advice. We do not guarantee the accuracy and the completeness of the information so provided. The absence of any information and/or warning to any drug shall not be considered and assumed as an implied assurance of the Company. We do not take any responsibility for the consequences arising out of the aforementioned information and strongly recommend you for a physical consultation in case of any queries or doubts.

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    Frequently Asked Questions about Duloxetine

    Some studies show that during the initial stages of Duloxetine treatment, hunger reduces, and one may experience weight loss, but gradually over time, it may increase your weight a little, which has not been considered significant. Thus long-term use of this medication can cause weight gain.

    No, Duloxetine is not a controlled drug per se like narcotic drugs, which cause severe dependency and have restricted usage. Duloxetine isn't abused and has less dependency as compared to narcotic drugs. However, it is available only via expert prescription. Some withdrawal symptoms are associated with this medication if you suddenly stop taking it.

    SSRIs are selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors that prevent the reuptake of only serotonin and make it available for the brain to elevate mood. Duloxetine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that prevents the uptake of both serotonin and norepinephrine for treating anxiety and depression.

    No, Duloxetine is not a narcotic drug. Narcotic drugs are opioids, a derivative of opium that act on the brain and spinal receptors to block severe pain, e.g., Morphine, heroin, etc. Duloxetine is a different class of drug, which works on other receptors to reduce depression and, in turn, decrease the sensation of pain.

    Duloxetine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) that helps treat anxiety and depression-like disorders by blocking the body’s reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine. Thus, leaving more free serotonin for the nerve cells, which elevates mood and reduces anxiety.

    No, you should not overdose on Duloxetine as overdosage is associated with serious side effects like increased sleepiness (somnolence), seizures, increased sweating, the yellowing and peeling of skin. In severe cases, it can induce a coma. This medication is only available on prescription and should be used under proper medical guidance.

    Yes, the most common side effect of Duloxetine is that it makes you sleepy. Antidepressant drugs slow the activity of the brain to relax it. As a result, one tends to sleep a lot while on this medication. Take precautions while driving and operating machinery while taking Duloxetine.

    Yes, Duloxetine is a generic name of the brand Cymbalta. It is a generic compound that has the same chemical composition as that of the original patented drug. Generic drugs have the same efficacy and effectiveness as branded drugs. The only difference lies in the manufacturing procedure, color, or taste.

    Duloxetine is a potent analgesic used for treating depression and chronic pains associated with nerve damage due to conditions like diabetic neuropathy, peripheral neuropathy, etc. However, the usual dosage used for anxiety and depression is inadequate for pain relief. Studies have shown that the effect of pain reduction occurs at the dosage of 60-120 mg after a week or two.

    Yes, Duloxetine is a strong antidepressant categorized as SNRI. It blocks the nerve cells' reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, thus leaving more serotonin for brain cells. The increased level of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain elevates mood and reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety.
    S.no Product Name Dosage Form
    1. Symbal Duloxetine 20mg/30mg Tablet
    2. Dulane Duloxetine 20mg/30mg Capsule
    3. Duvanta Duloxetine 20mg/30mg Tablet
    4. Dulot Duloxetine 20mg/30mg Capsule
    5. Duzela Duloxetine 60mg Capsule