Duloxetine
Duloxetine, sold as Cymbalta, is an antidepressant used for depression and nerve pain. One product sits on this shelf, in four strengths from 20 mg to 60 mg capsules.
Key points
- Duloxetine is a serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), acting on two brain chemicals at once.
- It is listed for Major Depressive Disorder, diabetic nerve pain, and fibromyalgia.
- Do not combine duloxetine with St John’s wort or MAOI antidepressants such as moclobemide; the interaction can trigger serotonin syndrome, marked by fast heartbeat, shaking, and confusion.
How does Duloxetine work?
Duloxetine blocks the reabsorption of serotonin and noradrenaline into nerve cells, raising the levels of both in the brain. More serotonin can ease low mood and anxiety; more noradrenaline can quiet the pain signals that damaged nerves send to the brain. This dual action is why duloxetine sits in the Antidepressants category yet is also used for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain.