Duloxetine

Definition

An orally bioavailable fluoxetine derivative belonging to the class of selective serotonin (5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE) reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), with central pain inhibitory, anxiolytic and antidepressant activities. Upon oral administration, duloxetine selectively prevents the reuptake of 5-HT and NE via transporter complexes on the pre-synaptic membrane, thereby increasing the level of these neurotransmitters within the synaptic cleft. This potentiates serotonergic and noradrenergic activities in the central nervous system (CNS), and alleviates anxiety, depression, and neuropathy sensations, such as neuropathic pain.

Also known as DULOXETINE — per NCIT

Also identified as

• ATC N06AX21 per RXNORM
• NCIT NCIT:C65495 per NCIT
• SCTID 407032004 per RXNORM
• SCTID 407033009 per RXNORM
• UNII O5TNM5N07U per RXNORM

Indications