Duloxetine

What Is Duloxetine?

Duloxetine is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) commonly prescribed for major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Beyond mood-related conditions, it is also widely used to relieve chronic pain, including osteoarthritis, musculoskeletal pain, fibromyalgia, and diabetic peripheral neuropathy. By targeting both emotional and physical symptoms, Duloxetine offers broad therapeutic benefits.

How Duloxetine Works

Duloxetine belongs to the SNRI class of antidepressants, which function by restoring balance between key neurotransmitters in the brain—serotonin and norepinephrine.
Many mental health conditions are linked to disruptions in these chemical messengers. By blocking their reuptake, Duloxetine increases their levels in the brain, improving mood, reducing anxiety, and alleviating nerve-related pain.

Storage Guidelines

Keep Duloxetine in a cool, dry place away from light and moisture, and ensure it is stored out of reach of children. Always use the medication before its expiration date.

How to Take Duloxetine

Duloxetine is taken orally, with water, with or without food.
If nausea occurs, taking the dose with a meal may help. Swallow the capsules whole—do not open, crush, or chew them, as this may affect how the medication is absorbed.

Dosage Information

Dosage may vary depending on the condition being treated:

• Depression:

  • 20–30 mg twice daily, or

  • 60 mg once daily

• Anxiety, fibromyalgia, diabetic neuropathy, chronic pain conditions:

  • Typically 60 mg once daily

Many healthcare providers start with 30 mg daily for one week before increasing to 60 mg to help minimize side effects.

Always follow your doctor’s dosing instructions.

Overdose Information

Never exceed the prescribed dosage.
Signs of overdose may include:

• Severe headache

• Persistent vomiting

• Fainting

• Loss of consciousness or coma

Seek emergency medical attention if overdose is suspected.

Missed Dose Advice

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember—unless it’s close to your next scheduled dose.
Do not double-dose to make up for a missed one.

Warnings and Precautions

Use Duloxetine with caution if you have a history of:

• Mental health disorders or suicide attempts

• Bleeding disorders

• Glaucoma

• Kidney or liver disease

• Seizures

• Alcoholism

Avoid alcohol, as it increases the risk of liver complications and side effects.

If Duloxetine causes dizziness or drowsiness, avoid driving or operating machinery.

Drug Interactions

Duloxetine may interact with:

• Blood thinners and antiplatelet drugs

• NSAIDs

• Cimetidine

• Quinolone antibiotics

• Antipsychotics

• Antiarrhythmic medications

• Tricyclic antidepressants

• MAO inhibitors

• Certain recreational substances

Inform your doctor about all medications you take to avoid harmful interactions.

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Headache

• Dry mouth

• Constipation

• Loss of appetite

• Drowsiness or fatigue

• Excessive sweating

Seek medical attention if you experience:

• Unusual bleeding or bruising

• Sexual dysfunction

• Muscle cramps

• Severe abdominal pain

• Dark urine or jaundice

• Seizures

• Rapid heartbeat or hallucinations

Serious symptoms require urgent care.

Using Duloxetine for Depression and Pain Disorders

Duloxetine is considered a highly effective treatment for depression, anxiety, fibromyalgia, and neuropathic pain. In several European countries, it is also approved for stress urinary incontinence.
As with all antidepressants, professional guidance is essential—never begin or change treatment without consulting a healthcare provider.

When Duloxetine Should Not Be Used

Do not take Duloxetine if you:

• Are allergic to any of its components

• Are pregnant or planning to become pregnant (safety is not well established)

• Are a child or adolescent, unless specifically prescribed by a doctor

How Long Should You Take Duloxetine?

Do not stop taking Duloxetine suddenly.
Stopping abruptly can worsen symptoms and trigger withdrawal effects. Always reduce dosage gradually and only under medical supervision.