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December 2021
Duloxetine can be used to treat different types of chronic pain. Duloxetine belongs to the group of medicines called Serotonin Noradrenergic
Reuptake Inhibitors (SNRI) that are also used to treat depression. Duloxetine works by increasing the amount of specific nerve transmitters in the nervous system, this then reduces the pain messages arriving in the brain.
Duloxetine is used to reduce pain in fibromyalgia and neuropathic (nerve) pain. This means it is especially good at reducing sensations such as hot, burning, throbbing, shooting, stabbing, sharp, cramping, aching, tingling, numbness, pins and needles pain and for pain that keeps you awake at night.
You may feel a slight effect after a week but it may take up to two months to feel the full effect. The dose may need to be increased to gain maximum effect; your doctor will advise you regarding this. Duloxetine does not always work for everyone, however if you do not feel any benefit from this medication, do not stop it suddenly, speak to your doctor first.
The capsules should be swallowed whole with water on an empty stomach.
It is recommended duloxetine is taken once a day (usually in the morning with food is best), at about the same time each day. Taking it at the same time each day will have the best effect and help you remember to take it.
Duloxetine comes in different strength capsules. A typical starting dose is 30 to 60 mg taken once a day.
Duloxetine can interact with other medicines, e.g. warfarin, tramadol and herbal products. Always tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist which other medicines you are taking or buying, so they can make sure there are no interactions between your medicines.
Treatment with duloxetine is continued indefinitely as long as it is effective and as long as no serious side effects occur.
If you stop duloxetine treatment for more than a few weeks there is a risk that your condition may get worse. Continue with your treatment unless advised by your doctor or unless side effects develop.
You might experience side effects with your treatment. Tell your doctor if you are concerned about possible side effects.
A reduction in dose may minimise side effects so that you can continue to take the treatment. Your doctor will advise on any dose changes that are necessary.
Most common possible side effects
The most common side effects for this medicine are;
Duloxetine can also cause trouble sleeping (insomnia) in some people but in other people it can cause drowsiness. It is recommended that you take duloxetine in the morning with food when you first start taking it. If you find that it makes you sleepy during the day you can move it to night with food.
If you experience any other side effects (anything unusual for you within a few days of starting the medicine) you should stop taking duloxetine and inform your doctor.
Less common or rare possible side effects
Contact your doctor if you experience one of these
More information about possible side effects
Information that comes with your duloxetine medicine describes in detail potential serious side effects that may occur with duloxetine.
Blood tests
Patients who take duloxetine should get occasional blood tests as requested by their doctor. It is important make sure duloxetine isn’t affecting the liver.
Use with alcohol
Drinking alcohol while taking duloxetine is not recommended because they can both effect the liver. Patients are advised to avoid alcohol completely, or at the very least, substantially limit the amount of alcohol that they drink.