Duloxetine

Duloxetine is a psychiatric medication that is often prescribed to chronically depressed patients. This medication relieves patients of feelings of depression, anger and guilt by changing the chemical makeup of the brain. Taking this medication helps patients to feel more mentally balanced and alert.

Side Effects/Warnings

Young people–those under 24 years old–are at increased risk of suicide after taking this medication. Some patients experience more severe depression and suicidal thoughts while on the medication; these patients are at risk for self-harming behaviors.

Patients may become physically dependent on this drug. Once the drug begins working, the body gets used to its presence and doesn’t function well without it. As a result, if patients take themselves off the drug too quickly, they may suffer withdrawal symptoms such as high blood pressure, seizures and severe mood swings. Patients may also develop tolerance, a state where they need greater amounts of the drug in order to achieve the same effect they got previously.