How should duloxetine be taken?

An antidepressant medication that acts on the brain is called duloxetine. Major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), fibromyalgia, diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP), and chronic musculoskeletal pain are among the conditions for which it is approved.

The following are signs of depression:

• Depressed mood: having a teary, gloomy, or empty feeling

• Having a helpless, guilty, hopeless, and worthless feeling

• A decrease in enthusiasm or enjoyment for your routine pursuits

• Eating and sleeping more or less than normal (usually less)

• Diminished vitality, difficulty focusing, or suicidal thoughts

• Psychomotor agitation, also known as "nervous energy"

• Psychomotor retardation refers to the sensation of thinking and moving slowly.

• Suicidal ideation or actions

When a person has excessive worry or anxiety for at least six months, it's known as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Additional signs and symptoms consist of the following:

• A restless feeling

• Fatigue, characterized by low energy and constant fatigue

• Trouble focusing

• Anger and agitation

• Tension in the muscles  

• Sleep disruption (difficulty falling asleep or waking up during the night)

How does duloxetine work?

Duloxetine 60 mg functions by preventing serotonin and norepinephrine from being reabsorbed. These neurotransmitters are important for mood regulation and pain perception. Duloxetine reduces the amount of these neurotransmitters in the brain, which helps with the symptoms of anxiety, depression, and chronic pain.

Before taking duloxetine, what should you discuss with your healthcare provider?

• The symptoms of your illness that cause you the most discomfort

• If you have suicidal or self-harming thoughts

• If you have previously taken medications for your condition, what effects did they have or did not cause?

• Discuss any negative reactions to medications you may be having with your healthcare provider. Some side effects may go away on their own, but others may require changing how you take your medication.

• Any additional mental health issues or physical health conditions you may have, such as a history of bipolar disorder, kidney disease, or liver disease 

• Any other medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter goods, herbal and dietary supplements, and any allergies you may have to medications 

• If you are nursing a child, intend to become pregnant, or are currently pregnant

• If you take drugs or drink alcohol

How to take duloxetine

• Duloxetine 60 mg is usually taken once or twice a day, with or without food.

• Patients typically start with a low dose of medication and gradually increase it over several weeks.

• The dosage typically ranges from 20 to 120 mg. Only your healthcare provider can determine the appropriate dosage for you.

• The capsules should be swallowed whole. It shouldn't be chewed, crushed, or broken.

• Consider using a calendar, pillbox, alarm clock, or cell phone alert to remind you to take your medication. You can ask a family member or friend to remind you or check in with you to ensure you take your medication.

Taking duloxetine as prescribed by your doctor can help you manage symptoms of depression, anxiety, and chronic pain.