Medicine Information

DLS

Capsule30 mgAntidepressant, Anxiolytic, Neuropathic pain agentATC: N06AX21

Generic Name

Duloxetine (as Hydrochloride)

Manufacturer

Various manufacturers

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
dls 30 mg capsule	৳ 9.00	৳ 90.00

Description

Overview of the medicine

Duloxetine is an antidepressant and nerve pain medication. It is used for major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain, fibromyalgia, and chronic musculoskeletal pain.

Uses & Indications

Major Depressive Disorder (MDD)

Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)

Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain (DPNP)

Fibromyalgia

Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain (e.g., chronic low back pain, chronic osteoarthritis pain)

Dosage

Adults

Typically 30-60 mg once daily, depending on indication. Max 120 mg/day.

Elderly

Start with a lower dose, e.g., 30 mg once daily.

Renal_impairment

Avoid in severe renal impairment (CrCl < 30 mL/min).

How to Take

Oral, with or without food. Swallow whole, do not chew or crush.

Mechanism of Action

Duloxetine is a potent inhibitor of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake in the central nervous system. It weakly inhibits dopamine reuptake.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Antidepressant effects typically begin in 2-4 weeks; pain relief may be earlier.

Excretion

Primarily via urine (70%) and feces (20%).

Half life

Approximately 12 hours.

Absorption

Well absorbed orally, Cmax reached in 6-10 hours.

Metabolism

Extensively metabolized in the liver by CYP1A2 and CYP2D6.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to duloxetine
Concomitant use with MAOIs
Uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma
Severe renal impairment (CrCl < 30 mL/min)
Severe hepatic impairment

Drug Interactions

MAOIs

Risk of serotonin syndrome.

Anticoagulants/Antiplatelets

Increased risk of bleeding.

CYP2D6 Inhibitors (e.g., paroxetine, fluoxetine)

Increased duloxetine levels.

CYP1A2 Inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine, ciprofloxacin)

Increased duloxetine levels.

Other serotonergic drugs (e.g., SSRIs, triptans, tramadol)

Increased risk of serotonin syndrome.

Storage

Store below 30°C, protect from light and moisture.

Overdose

Symptoms include somnolence, coma, seizures, serotonin syndrome, vomiting. Treatment is supportive.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Consult doctor. Pregnancy Category C. Excreted in breast milk, caution advised.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

10 capsules per strip30 capsules per box

Shelf Life

24-36 months

Availability

Pharmacies, hospitals

Approval Status

FDA/DGDA approved

Patent Status

Generic available

Clinical Trials

Extensive clinical trials conducted for MDD, GAD, DPNP, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain conditions.

Lab Monitoring

Liver function tests (periodically, especially in patients with pre-existing liver disease)
Blood pressure monitoring

Doctor Notes

Counsel patients on the importance of slow tapering to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Monitor liver function tests and blood pressure regularly during treatment.