Duloxetine

There are quite a few different uses of Duloxetine.

Duloxetine for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain (DPNP)

Sometimes this particular health concern in people with diabetes can cause the nerves to be damaged Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain (DPNP). As a result the person will have tingling and pain in the arms, legs, fingers, and toes. It is classified as an SNRI and it helps to increase both Norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain.

This increase in the chemicals of the brain is actually a way to trick the messages that go from the brain to the body. Instead of the them telling each other that there is pain in various areas those messages either won’t be sent or the won’t be as strong as before. As a result someone taking Duloxetine for nerve damages due to diabetes can sleep better, have more control, and stop having ongoing pain.

The dose will depend on how severe the pain is and the level of diabetes that the patient has. Typically though a doctor will try to use the lowest possible dose that gets results. Over the course of a month the progress with Duloxetine will be closely monitored. The dose can be increased at small intervals during that time. This medication needs to be taken daily, and at the same time each day for it to be the most effective. It can take up to a month to find out if it offers relief for those with diabetes.

Duloxetine and Depression

Duloxetine is also an antidepressant of the SSNRI (selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor) and can be prescribed to treat a variety of anxiety disorders and depression.

Duloxetine Precautions

Duloxetine isn’t recommended for women who are pregnant or who are nursing. It also isn’t recommended for anyone that consumes alcohol on a regular basis. Those that have problems with the heart, liver, or kidneys aren’t a good candidate. Sometimes other forms of medications a person is taking could be deemed as too harsh to take along with Duloxetine.

Duloxetine Side Effects

There are a few side effects that may occur with the use of Duloxetine. For most people that do have side effects they are mild. They are better than the pain that is associated with diabetes. Such side effects include sweating, no appetite, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, dry mouth, headache, and fatigue.

Any problems with the ability to breathe, swelling of the body, a change in heart rate, or blurred vision aren’t normal. Those side effects need to be taken seriously and medical help sought for them.