Duloxetine
Duloxetine
Duloxetine (pronounced duh-LOX-uh-teen) is a type of antidepressant medication that is commonly used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, and certain types of chronic pain.
Etymology
The term "Duloxetine" is derived from the Latin words "dulcis" meaning sweet and "oxus" meaning sharp. This is in reference to the drug's ability to balance the "sweet" and "sharp" elements of mood and pain perception in the brain.
Usage
Duloxetine is classified as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, two naturally occurring substances in the brain that help maintain mental balance and stop the movement of pain signals in the brain.
Related Terms
- Antidepressant: A medication used to treat depression.
- Serotonin: A neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, appetite, and sleep.
- Norepinephrine: A neurotransmitter that plays an important role in attention and the body's response to stress.
- Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI): A type of antidepressant that works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain.
Side Effects
Like all medications, Duloxetine can cause side effects. These may include nausea, dry mouth, drowsiness, constipation, and sweating. More serious side effects can include liver damage, serotonin syndrome, and increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially in young adults.
Precautions
Before starting Duloxetine, patients should inform their healthcare provider about any other medications they are taking, as well as any history of liver disease, kidney disease, glaucoma, or bipolar disorder.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Duloxetine
- Wikipedia's article - Duloxetine
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