Duloxetine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) which treats a range of conditions. It is similar to other SNRIs in beneficial and adverse effects, and, like all SNRIs, it may be habit-forming.

The medication is more commonly known by its brand names Cymbalta, Ariclaim, Xeristar, Yentreve, Duzela and Dulane.

Getting the Most from Duloxetine

The medication is effective in managing symptoms of several conditions, most commonly:

• Major depressive disorder
• Generalized anxiety disorder
• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic musculoskeletal pain
• Stress urinary incontinence

Capsules should be swallowed whole, not mixed with food or dissolved in a beverage. Taking on a full stomach is optional. Taking doses at the same time each day will maximize the drug's presence in the body.

Dosage and administration will vary somewhat according to the condition being treated. In otherwise healthy adults, a general guideline is as follows:

• Major depressive disorder - 30 to 60 mg each day, depending on severity of the condition. Doses may be taken all at once or split into two smaller doses.
• Generalized anxiety disorder - 60 mg once daily.
• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy - 60 mg once daily.
• Fibromyalgia - 60 mg once daily.
• Chronic musculoskeletal pain - 60 mg once daily.
• Stress urinary incontinence - 80 mg per day, split into two 40 mg doses.

Treatment usually begins with a smaller, half-dose for one week, to allow the body to adjust to the medication and ensure no severe adverse reactions develop. Similarly, if treatment is ended, doses should be gradually tapered off; abrupt cessation may cause physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms.

Effects are typically felt within 1 or 2 weeks of treatment, but it may take up to a month for full effects to be realized. Treatment is typically long-term, lasting months or years.

Before you Buy Duloxetine

Patients with certain preexisting conditions should not buy duloxetine without first discussing risks with a doctor:

• Liver or kidney disease
• Epilepsy
• Glaucoma
• High Blood Pressure
• Bleeding or blood clotting disorders

Additionally, use should be avoided if taking MOAIs, other SNRIs, and powerful stimulants such as cocaine, amphetamine or methamphetamine. Alcohol use will likely worsen side effects. There is a chance it will interact with other prescription or non-prescription drugs as well; check with a pharmacist if unsure of safety.

In otherwise healthy patients, side effects are typically mild:

• Nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness or mild disorientation
• Drowsiness
• Physical or mental restlessness
• Difficulty falling asleep
• Loss of libido
• Impotence
• Dry mouth
• Sweating, especially at night
• Vivid dreams or nightmares
• Constipation

All side effects should reverse completely within a week or two of stopping treatment. Taking capsules with food may ease nausea. If side effects are severe or persistent, a doctor should be consulted; dosage may need to be adjusted, or there may be solutions to reduce the severity of individual side effects.

A more rare side effect, particularly in patients under 24 years of age, is an increase in depression, which may lead to suicidal thoughts. Be alert for symptoms of increasing depression for the duration of treatment.

Duloxetine should not be used while breast-feeding; it is known to pass through breast milk. Its safety in pregnancy is disputed; parents should discuss risks versus benefits with a trusted doctor or pharmacist before use.

A Pharmacy at your Fingertips

Kiwi Drug does not require patients to have a prescription to buy duloxetine; you'll simply need to answer a few questions for our online doctor during the checkout procedure. However, note that the drug may not be approved for all the above uses in all areas; likewise many areas require a prescription to buy duloxetine for any reason. Clients who buy duloxetine from Kiwi Drug take sole responsibility for complying with local regulations.