Duloxetine (Cymbalta)
Duloxetine (Cymbalta) explained
Duloxetine (Cymbalta) is an SNRI for depression, anxiety, and certain pain conditions. It increases serotonin and norepinephrine to help mood and reduce neuropathic and musculoskeletal pain.
FDA ApprovedDuloxetine (Cymbalta) helps treat
• Major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic musculoskeletal pain (e.g., chronic low back pain)
• Osteoarthritis pain
additional medications
• Other SNRIs (venlafaxine, desvenlafaxine)
• SSRIs (sertraline, escitalopram)
• Gabapentin/pregabalin (for neuropathic pain)
• Tricyclic antidepressants (e.g., amitriptyline)
medication risks
• Black box warning: suicidality risk in young people
• Serotonin syndrome risk
• Increased blood pressure/heart rate
• Hepatotoxicity (rare; avoid heavy alcohol use)
• Bleeding risk with NSAIDs/anticoagulants
• Urinary retention (rare)
side effects
• Nausea, dry mouth
• Dizziness, fatigue
• Constipation
• Sweating
• Insomnia or somnolence
• Decreased appetite
FAQs
Q: What is duloxetine used for?A: MDD, GAD, diabetic neuropathy pain, fibromyalgia, and chronic musculoskeletal pain.
Q: Can it raise blood pressure?
A: Yes, small increases can occur; monitoring is recommended.
Q: Does duloxetine help nerve pain?
A: Yes—approved for diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain.
Q: Any liver concerns?
A: Avoid heavy alcohol use; rare liver injury has occurred.
Q: How soon does it work for pain?
A: Some patients notice benefit within 1–2 weeks; full effect may take longer.
