MedDataToolDuloxetine is a medication used to treat conditions like major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, diabetic nerve pain, fibromyalgia, and chronic musculoskeletal pain. It works by helping to balance certain chemicals in the brain that affect mood and pain. You take it as a delayed-release capsule, starting with a dose of 40 mg to 60 mg per day, and the maximum dose is 120 mg per day. It's important to know that you should not take duloxetine if you are currently on certain antidepressants called MAOIs, as this can lead to serious side effects. Additionally, if you have severe liver or kidney problems, you should avoid using this medication.
✦
Uses
- Major depressive disorder in adults.
- Generalized anxiety disorder in adults and pediatric patients 7 years and older.
- Diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain in adults.
- Fibromyalgia in adults.
- Chronic musculoskeletal pain in adults.
◷
Dosage
Adults with major depressive disorder: 40–60 mg daily.
Adults with generalized anxiety disorder: 60 mg once daily.
Adults with diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain: 60 mg once daily.
Adults with fibromyalgia: 60 mg once daily.
Adults with chronic musculoskeletal pain: 60 mg once daily.
Pediatric patients 7 to 17 years: start at 30 mg once daily for 2 weeks, then increase to 60 mg once daily.
Always follow your doctor's specific instructions for your dose.
⚠
Side effects
Common
nauseadry mouthsomnolenceconstipationdecreased appetitedizziness
Serious
suicidal thoughtsliver damageserotonin syndromesevere skin reactionsseizures
🛑
Warnings
⚠ Important warnings
- Increased risk of suicidal thoughts in children, adolescents, and young adults.
- Avoid use in patients with chronic liver disease or severe renal impairment.
- Monitor for worsening symptoms or suicidal thoughts.
- Do not use with MAOIs or certain serotonergic drugs.
⇄
Drug interactions
- Fluvoxamineincreases duloxetine levels significantlyMonitor
- Paroxetineincreases duloxetine levels moderatelyMonitor
- NSAIDsincreased risk of bleedingMonitor
- Warfarinmonitor for altered anticoagulant effectsMonitor
Ask about this drug
Answers pulled from the FDA label only.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is provided for informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Data Source: Publicly available drug labeling information from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).