Duloxetine

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Brand name(s): Cymbaltaź

How should this medicine be used?

Duloxetine comes as a delayed release (long-acting) capsule to take by mouth. When duloxetine is used to treat depression, it is usually taken once or twice a day with or without food. When duloxetine is used to treat the pain of diabetic neuropathy, it is usually taken once a day with or without food. To help you remember to take duloxetine, take it around the same time every day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take duloxetine exactly as directed. Do not take more or less of it, take it more often, or take it for a longer time than prescribed by your doctor.

Swallow the capsules whole; do not split, chew, or crush them. Do not open the capsules and mix the contents with liquids or sprinkle the contents on food.

If you are taking duloxetine to treat the pain of diabetic neuropathy, your doctor may start you on a low dose of medication and gradually increase your dose.

Duloxetine controls depression and relieves the pain of diabetic neuropathy, but does not cure these conditions. It may take 1-4 weeks or longer before you feel the full benefit of duloxetine. Continue to take duloxetine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking duloxetine without talking to your doctor. Your doctor will probably decrease your dose gradually. If you suddenly stop taking duloxetine, you may experience withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, upset stomach, vomiting, headache, pain, burning or tingling in hands or feet, irritability, and nightmares. Tell your doctor if you experience any of these symptoms when your dose of duloxetine is decreased.

Your doctor or pharmacist will give you the manufacturer's patient information sheet when you begin treatment with duloxetine. Read the information carefully and ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

Last Revised: 01/01/2005

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