Uses of Duloxetine

Duloxetine is used to treat depression, anxiety and diabetic neuropathic pain.

Therapeutic Category

Duloxetine: Antidepressants

How Duloxetine works

Duloxetine works by regulating the release and uptake of certain brain chemicals (serotonin, norepinephrine) that induces nerve sensitivity and regulates mood, emotions and behaviour. As a result, it reduces nerve pain and sensitivity, elevates your mood and controls nervousness.

Common side effects of Duloxetine

• dizziness, drowsiness, headache
• tremor
• tingling or numbness, sedation
• difficulty in sleeping, tiredness
• blurred vision
• ringing in the ears
• dry mouth, constipation, diarrhea, vomiting, flatulence, diarrhoea, nausea, lack of appetite
• increased sweating
• muscle cramps,
• difficulties with erection, inability to reach orgasm, nightmares, decreased sexual drive, delayed ejaculation
• flushing, fast heart rate, increased blood pressure
• painful urination, frequent urination
• weight loss (especially in children)

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience severe allergic reaction, suicidal thoughts and behaviour, severe skin reactions, feeling restless, urge to move, increased irritation
• If you experience signs of serotonin syndrome (feeling agitated, hallucinations, confusion, loss of consciousness, fast heartbeat, feeling dizzy, increased sweating, flushing, tremors, stiff muscles, or muscle twitching, loss of coordination, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or seizures)

Health Tips for Duloxetine

• Follow the prescribed dosage and schedule provided by your doctor. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment without medical supervision
• Duloxetine can be taken with or without food.
• It is generally advised to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking Duloxetine. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects such as drowsiness, dizziness, and impaired coordination
• Duloxetine can cause excessive drowsiness. Therefore, do not drive or operate any heavy tools or machines if you feel dizzy or sleepy
• Do not take Duloxetine without consulting your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Do not stop taking Duloxetine without consulting your doctor as it could lead to withdrawal symptoms. If you need to discontinue duloxetine, it is important to gradually reduce the dosage under the guidance of your healthcare provider