Is duloxetine risky?

Like all medications, duloxetine (brand name Cymbalta) carries some risks. Duloxetine is primarily used to treat depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders. While it can be an effective treatment for some individuals, there are some potential risks associated with its use.

One of the main risks of duloxetine is the potential for side effects. Common side effects of duloxetine can include nausea, dry mouth, constipation, and decreased appetite. Other potential side effects can include dizziness, headache, and sexual dysfunction. In rare cases, duloxetine can cause more serious side effects, such as liver damage, bleeding, or a decrease in sodium levels in the blood.

Another risk of duloxetine is the potential for drug interactions. Duloxetine can interact with other medications, including over-the-counter medications and herbal supplements. It’s important for individuals taking duloxetine to discuss their full medication history with their doctor to avoid potentially harmful interactions.

Finally, there is some evidence to suggest that duloxetine and other antidepressants may increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, particularly in young people. This risk is generally considered to be low, but it’s important for individuals taking duloxetine to be aware of the potential risk and to seek medical attention if they experience any unusual changes in mood or behavior.

Overall, while duloxetine can be an effective treatment for depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders, it’s important for individuals to discuss the potential risks and benefits with their doctor and to carefully monitor for any side effects or changes in mood or behavior.


There are various forms of drugs available, such as tablets or liquids, and each may have a separate patient information leaflet (PIL) for different doses. It is important to refer to the PIL for the specific form and dose of the drug that you have been prescribed.

You can search for further information and PILs on websites such as:

  • The British National Formulary (BNF)
  • Electronic medicines compendium (emc)
  • The National Library of Medicine's DailyMed
  • The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) 
  • Different drug forms like tablets or liquids have specific patient information leaflets (PIL) for various doses. Refer to the PIL for your prescribed drug form and dose.

    Search for PILs on websites like:

    France

    • ANSM (Agence nationale de sécurité du médicament et des produits de santé): ansm.sante.fr

    Spain

    • AEMPS (Agencia Española de Medicamentos y Productos Sanitarios): aemps.gob.es

    Germany

    • BfArM (Bundesinstitut für Arzneimittel und Medizinprodukte): bfarm.de

    Italy

    For questions about your medication:

    • Consult your doctor, a healthcare professional, or a pharmacist

    France

    • Contact SOS Médecins: 3624
    • For mental health support, contact SOS Suicide: 01 45 39 40 00

    Belgium (French)

    Switzerland (French)

    • La Main Tendue: 143
    • Website: 143.ch

    Canada (French)

    • Centre de prévention du suicide du Québec: 1 866 APPELLE (1 866 277-3553)
    • Website: cpsquebec.ca

    Spain

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Teléfono de la Esperanza: 717 003 717

    Germany

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefonseelsorge: 0800 111 0 111 or 0800 111 0 222

    Italy

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Telefono Amico: 199 284 284

    Netherlands

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact 113 Zelfmoordpreventie: 0800 0113

    Portugal

    • Contact emergency number: 112
    • For mental health support, contact Sos Voz Amiga: 21 354 45 45, 91 280 26 69, or 96 352 46 60

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