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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is Duloxetine Suitable For Fibromyalgia?

I have had fibromyalgia for several years. The pain is worsening. My doctor wants to put me on Duloxetine 30mg. I am presently on Zoloft 150mg for depression, and have been for about 15 years. She wants me to decrease the Zoloft 50mg each week then begin Duloxetine. I have read some pretty negative reactions to this medication. What are your thoughts on Duloxetine for fibromyalgia?
Mon, 10 Nov 2014
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

Zoloft is a SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), it acts by preventing the uptake of a chemical called serotonin thereby causing increased amounts of the serotonin to build up.

Duloxetine is an SNRI (selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor), it acts by increasing the levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine. Because it increases the levels of both of these chemicals then it may be able to work better for you.

The side effects may or may not occur. Side effects occur in the minority not majority of persons using medications.

I hope this helps
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Ayurveda Specialist Dr. Munish Sood's  Response
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1. Since duloxetine is prescribed drug for neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, fibromyalgia,anxiety and also for associated psychological depression, thus you can gradually taper off with zoloft [sertraline] [as a monotherapy]and can introduce the said drug in your regime
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Is Duloxetine Suitable For Fibromyalgia?

HI, thanks for using healthcare magic Zoloft is a SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor), it acts by preventing the uptake of a chemical called serotonin thereby causing increased amounts of the serotonin to build up. Duloxetine is an SNRI (selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor), it acts by increasing the levels of both serotonin and norepinephrine. Because it increases the levels of both of these chemicals then it may be able to work better for you. The side effects may or may not occur. Side effects occur in the minority not majority of persons using medications. I hope this helps