About duloxetine
Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI)
Used for
- Depression
- Generalized anxiety disorder
- Nerve pain from diabetes
- Fibromyalgia and chronic musculoskeletal pain
Usual adult dose
Usually 30–60 mg once daily for depression or anxiety; 60 mg once daily for nerve pain or fibromyalgia. Doses vary by condition.
Usual dose in children
Not routinely used in children; specialist-directed dosing may be used for some conditions.
Common side effects
- Nausea, dry mouth, constipation, or reduced appetite
- Dizziness, sleepiness, or trouble sleeping
- Increased sweating
- Sexual problems
Important warnings
- Can increase suicidal thoughts in young people, especially early in treatment.
- Do not stop suddenly; withdrawal symptoms can occur.
- May raise blood pressure or increase bleeding risk.
- Avoid with severe liver disease, heavy alcohol use, or uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma.
Pregnancy
Use during pregnancy requires clinical review; late-pregnancy use may cause newborn adaptation problems.
Breastfeeding
Duloxetine passes into breast milk in small amounts; discuss benefits and risks with a clinician.
Interactions
- MAO inhibitors; allow at least 14 days between treatments.
- Other serotonin-raising medicines, including tramadol, triptans, and St John’s wort.
- Blood thinners and NSAIDs may increase bleeding risk.
- Ciprofloxacin and fluvoxamine can increase duloxetine levels.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.