Episode #40: duloxetine (Cymbalta) | Podcast Show Notes
duloxetine (doo LOX e teen)
Below will be links for the full Podcast and the Drug Card for duloxetine along with a brief summary of various points on duloxetine.Â
QUESTIONS:
- True or False. The max dose of duloxetine is 60 mg per day but benefits have been seen at 120 mg per day.Â
- True or False. Duloxetine’s full therapeutic benefits are commonly seen within the first 7 days.Â
- Which of the following are true for duloxetine. Select all that apply.Â
- A). The brand name is Drizalma
- B). The therapeutic category is a SSRI
- C). Contents of capsules can be opened and given in applesauce
- D). General dosing range is between 30-60 mg PO qid.
- E). All of the above.
SUMMARY:
Duloxetine is used in a wide variety of indications. It can be used in treating fibromyalgia, chronic musculoskeletal pain, and neuropathic pain due to diabetes mellitus. It is also used in treating mood disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder and major unipolar depressive disorder. The general dosing range for duloxetine is 30-60 mg PO qd. Although the max dose is 120 mg per day, therapeutic benefits do not appear evident past 60 mg per day. Duloxetine works through strong inhibition of neuronal serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake along with weak inhibition of dopamine reuptake. There is reduced bioavailability in patients who smoke cigarettes with a 33% reduction of bioavailability. When discontinuing therapy duloxetine should be titrated down over 2-4 weeks. There is a black box warning for suicidality and risks vs benefits should be weighted when being used in children and adolescents. When taking duloxetine capsules should be taken whole and should not be opened.
ANSWERS:Â Â
- False. Although the max dose is 120 mg per day, therapeutic benefits have not been seen at doses greater than 60 mg per day.
- False. It may take up to 4 weeks before symptoms improve.Â
- Only A is correct. Duloxetine is a SNRI. Capsules must be taken whole. General dosing range is 30-60 mg PO qd (not qid).
PDF of Drug Card: duloxetine
