Duloxetine (Capsule)
Your safety is our first priority. Learn more about key medication details, side effects, and other important information about your treatment.
Important safety information
Duloxetine is a prescription medication approved to treat conditions such as depression, anxiety, nerve pain, and fibromyalgia. It affects chemicals in the brain and nervous system that may be unbalanced in these conditions.
Do not take Duloxetine if you:
- Are allergic to duloxetine or any ingredients in the medication.
- Are taking or have recently taken (within 14 days) a type of medication called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). Combining duloxetine with MAOIs can cause serious or life-threatening side effects.
- Are under 18 years of age unless directed by your healthcare provider.
Duloxetine can cause serious side effects. Stop taking duloxetine and get emergency medical help if you experience:
- Signs of an allergic reaction such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
- Serotonin syndrome, symptoms of which include agitation, hallucinations, fever, sweating, shivering, fast heartbeat, muscle stiffness, loss of coordination, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. This can happen if you take duloxetine with other medicines that increase serotonin.
- Liver problems indicated by yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, severe nausea or vomiting, or pain in the upper right abdomen.
- Severe mood changes such as new or worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, or unusual behavior, especially when starting treatment or changing the dose.
Before you take Duloxetine, tell your healthcare provider if you:
- Have or have had liver or kidney problems.
- Have high blood pressure or heart disease.
- Have a history of seizures or epilepsy.
- Have bipolar disorder or any other mental health conditions.
- Are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
- Use alcohol or recreational drugs. Combining duloxetine with alcohol may increase side effects and risk of liver damage.
Duloxetine may cause side effects such as:
- Nausea, dry mouth, dizziness, fatigue, constipation, loss of appetite, or sweating.
- Changes in mood or behavior, including anxiety, restlessness, or trouble sleeping.
- Sexual side effects including decreased libido or difficulty with ejaculation or orgasm.
Do not stop taking duloxetine suddenly.
Stopping abruptly may cause withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, dizziness, headache, nausea, or tingling sensations. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for tapering the dose.
Tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you take,
including prescription, over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Duloxetine can interact with other drugs and cause serious side effects.
Duloxetine is not approved for use in children under 18 years old.
If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately.