DULOXETINE capsule, delayed release

Duloxetine by

Drug Labeling and Warnings

Duloxetine by is a Prescription medication manufactured, distributed, or labeled by Coupler LLC. Drug facts, warnings, and ingredients follow.

Drug Details [pdf]

  • BOXED WARNING (What is this?)

    WARNING: SUICIDAL THOUGHTS AND BEHAVIORS

    Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents, and young adults in short-term studies. These studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior with antidepressant use in patients over age 24; there was a reduction in risk with antidepressant use in patients aged 65 and older [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1)] .
    In patients of all ages who are started on antidepressant therapy, monitor closely for worsening, and for emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Advise families and caregivers of the need for close observation and communication with the prescriber [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1)] .

  • 1 INDICATIONS AND USAGE

    Duloxetine delayed-release capsules are indicated for the treatment of:

    • Major depressive disorder in adults
    • Generalized anxiety disorder in adults and pediatric patients 7 years of age and older
    • Diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain in adults
    • Fibromyalgia in adults and pediatric patients 13 years of age and older
    • Chronic musculoskeletal pain in adults
  • 2 DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION

    2.1 Important Administration Instructions

    Administer duloxetine delayed-release capsules orally (with or without meals) and swallow whole. Do not chew or crush, and do not open the delayed-release capsule and sprinkle its contents on food or mix with liquids because these actions might affect the enteric coating. If a dose of duloxetine delayed-release capsules is missed, take the missed dose as soon as it is remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses of duloxetine delayed-release capsules at the same time.

    2.2 Dosage for Treatment of Major Depressive Disorder in Adults

    The recommended starting dosage in adults with MDD is 40 mg/day (given as 20 mg twice daily) to 60 mg/day (given either once daily or as 30 mg twice daily). For some patients, it may be desirable to start at 30 mg once daily for 1 week, to allow patients to adjust to duloxetine delayed-release capsules before increasing to 60 mg once daily. While a 120 mg/day dose was shown to be effective, there is no evidence that doses greater than 60 mg/day confer any additional benefits. Periodically reassess to determine the need for maintenance treatment and the appropriate dosage for such treatment.

    2.3 Dosage for Treatment of Generalized Anxiety Disorder

    Recommended Dosage in Adults Less than 65 Years of Age

    For most adults less than 65 years of age with GAD, initiate duloxetine delayed-release capsules 60 mg once daily. For some patients, it may be desirable to start at 30 mg once daily for 1 week, to allow patients to adjust to duloxetine delayed-release capsules before increasing to 60 mg once daily. While a 120 mg once daily dosage was shown to be effective, there is no evidence that doses greater than 60 mg/day confer additional benefit. Nevertheless, if a decision is made to increase the dosage beyond 60 mg once daily, increase dosage in increments of 30 mg once daily. Periodically reassess to determine the continued need for maintenance treatment and the appropriate dosage for such treatment.

    Recommended Dosage in Geriatric Patients

    In geriatric patients with GAD, initiate duloxetine delayed-release capsules at a dosage of 30 mg once daily for 2 weeks before considering an increase to the target dose of 60 mg/day. Thereafter, patients may benefit from doses above 60 mg once daily. If a decision is made to increase the dose beyond 60 mg once daily, increase dose in increments of 30 mg once daily. The maximum dose studied was 120 mg per day.

    Recommended Dosage in Pediatric Patients 7 Years to 17 Years of Age

    Initiate duloxetine delayed-release capsules in pediatric patients 7 years to 17 years of age with GAD at a dosage of 30 mg once daily for 2 weeks before considering an increase to 60 mg once daily. The recommended dosage range is 30 mg to 60 mg once daily. Some patients may benefit from dosages above 60 mg once daily. If a decision is made to increase the dose beyond 60 mg once daily, increase dosage in increments of 30 mg once daily. The maximum dose studied was 120 mg per day.

    2.4 Dosage for Treatment of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain in Adults

    Administer 60 mg once daily in adults with diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain. There is no evidence that doses higher than 60 mg once daily confer additional significant benefit and the higher dosage is clearly less well tolerated .For patients for whom tolerability is a concern, a lower starting dose may be considered.

    Since diabetes is frequently complicated by renal disease, consider a lower starting dosage and gradual increase in dosage for patients with renal impairment [ see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.10)].

    2.5 Dosage for Treatment of Fibromyalgia

    Recommended Dosage in Adults 

    The recommended duloxetine delayed-release capsule dosage is 60 mg once daily in adults with fibromyalgia. Begin treatment at 30 mg once daily for 1 week, to allow patients to adjust to duloxetine delayed-release capsules before increasing to 60 mg once daily. Some patients may respond to the starting dosage. There is no evidence that dosages greater than 60 mg/day confer additional benefit, even in patients who do not respond to a 60 mg/day dosage, and higher dosages were associated with a higher rate of adverse reactions.

    Recommended Dosage in Pediatric Patients 13 Years to 17 Years of Age

    The recommended starting duloxetine dosage in pediatric patients 13 years to 17 years of age with fibromyalgia is 30 mg once daily. The dosage may be increased to 60 mg once daily based on response and tolerability.

    2.6 Dosage for Treatment of Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain in Adults

    The recommended duloxetine delayed-release capsules dosage is 60 mg once daily in adults with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Begin treatment at 30 mg once daily for one week, to allow patients to adjust to duloxetine delayed-release capsules before increasing to 60 mg once daily. There is no evidence that higher dosages confer additional benefit, even in patients who do not respond to a 60 mg once daily dosage, and higher dosages are associated with a higher rate of adverse reactions [see Clinical Studies ( 14.6)].

    2.7 Dosage in Patients with Hepatic Impairment or Severe Renal Impairment

    Avoid use in patients with chronic liver disease or cirrhosis [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.14) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.9)].

    Avoid use in patients with severe renal impairment, GFR less than 30 mL/minute [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.14) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.10)] .

    2.8 Discontinuing Duloxetine Delayed-Release Capsules

    Adverse reactions after discontinuation of duloxetine delayed-release capsules, after abrupt or tapered discontinuation, include: dizziness, headache, nausea, diarrhea, paresthesia, irritability, vomiting, insomnia, anxiety, hyperhidrosis, and fatigue. A gradual reduction in dosage rather than abrupt cessation is recommended whenever possible [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7)].

    2.9 Switching a Patient to or from a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI) Intended to Treat Psychiatric Disorders

    At least 14 days should elapse between discontinuation of an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders and initiation of therapy with duloxetine delayed-release capsules. Conversely, at least 5 days should be allowed after stopping duloxetine delayed-release capsules before starting an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders [see Contraindications ( 4)].

    2.10 Use of Duloxetine Delayed-Release Capsules with Other MAOIs such as Linezolid or Methylene Blue

    Do not start duloxetine delayed-release capsules in a patient who is being treated with linezolid or intravenous methylene blue because there is an increased risk of serotonin syndrome. In a patient who requires more urgent treatment of a psychiatric condition, other interventions, including hospitalization, should be considered [see Contraindications ( 4)].

    In some cases, a patient already receiving duloxetine delayed-release capsules therapy may require urgent treatment with linezolid or intravenous methylene blue. If acceptable alternatives to linezolid or intravenous methylene blue treatment are not available and the potential benefits of linezolid or intravenous methylene blue treatment are judged to outweigh the risks of serotonin syndrome in a particular patient, duloxetine delayed-release capsules should be stopped promptly, and linezolid or intravenous methylene blue can be administered. The patient should be monitored for symptoms of serotonin syndrome for 5 days or until 24 hours after the last dose of linezolid or intravenous methylene blue, whichever comes first. Therapy with duloxetine delayed-release capsules may be resumed 24 hours after the last dose of linezolid or intravenous methylene blue [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4)].

    The risk of administering methylene blue by non-intravenous routes (such as oral tablets or by local injection) or in intravenous doses much lower than 1 mg/kg with duloxetine delayed-release capsules is unclear. The clinician should, nevertheless, be aware of the possibility of emergent symptoms of serotonin syndrome with such use [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4)].

  • 3 DOSAGE FORMS AND STRENGTHS

    Duloxetine delayed-release capsules are available as:

    • 20 mg white and blue capsules imprinted with “ap DLX20”
    • 30 mg blue and blue capsules imprinted with “ap DLX30”
    • 40 mg pink and blue capsules imprinted with “ap DLX40”
    • 60 mg white and blue capsules imprinted with “ap DLX60”
  • 4 CONTRAINDICATIONS

    The use of MAOIs intended to treat psychiatric disorders with duloxetine or within 5 days of stopping treatment with duloxetine is contraindicated because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome. The use of duloxetine within 14 days of stopping an MAOI intended to treat psychiatric disorders is contraindicated [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.8) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4)].

    Starting duloxetine in a patient who is being treated with MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue is also contraindicated because of an increased risk of serotonin syndrome [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.9) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4)].

  • 5 WARNINGS AND PRECAUTIONS

    5.1 Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Children, Adolescents and Young Adults

    Patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), both adult and pediatric, may experience worsening of their depression and/or the emergence of suicidal ideation and behavior (suicidality) or unusual changes in behavior, whether or not they are taking antidepressant medications, and this risk may persist until significant remission occurs. Suicide is a known risk of depression and certain other psychiatric disorders, and these disorders themselves are the strongest predictors of suicide. There has been a long-standing concern, however, that antidepressants may have a role in inducing worsening of depression and the emergence of suicidality in certain patients during the early phases of treatment.

    Pooled analyses of short-term placebo-controlled trials of antidepressant drugs (SSRIs and others) showed that these drugs increase the risk of suicidal thinking and behavior (suicidality) in children, adolescents, and young adults (ages 18 to 24) with major depressive disorder (MDD) and other psychiatric disorders. Short-term studies did not show an increase in the risk of suicidality with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults beyond age 24; there was a reduction with antidepressants compared to placebo in adults aged 65 and older.

    The pooled analyses of placebo-controlled trials in children and adolescents with MDD, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), or other psychiatric disorders included a total of 24 short-term trials of 9 antidepressant drugs in over 4400 patients. The pooled analyses of placebo-controlled trials in adults with MDD or other psychiatric disorders included a total of 295 short-term trials (median duration of 2 months) of 11 antidepressant drugs in over 77,000 patients. There was considerable variation in risk of suicidality among drugs, but a tendency toward an increase in the younger patients for almost all drugs studied. There were differences in absolute risk of suicidality across the different indications, with the highest incidence in MDD. The risk of differences (drug vs placebo), however, were relatively stable within age strata and across indications. These risk differences (drug-placebo difference in the number of cases of suicidality per 1000 patients treated) are provided in Table 1.

     

    Table 1

    Age Range

    Drug-Placebo Difference in Number of Cases of Suicidality per 1000 Patients Treated

    Increases Compared to Placebo

     <18

     14 additional cases

     18-24

     5 additional cases

    Decreases Compared to Placebo

     25-64

     1 fewer case

    ≥65

     6 fewer cases

    No suicides occurred in any of the pediatric duloxetine trials. There were suicides in the adult duloxetine trials, but the number was not sufficient to reach any conclusion about duloxetine effect on suicide.

    It is unknown whether the suicidality risk extends to longer-term use, i.e., beyond several months. However, there is substantial evidence from placebo-controlled maintenance trials in adults with depression that the use of antidepressants can delay the recurrence of depression.

    All patients being treated with antidepressants for any indication should be monitored appropriately and observed closely for clinical worsening, suicidality, and unusual changes in behavior, especially during the initial few months of a course of drug therapy, or at times of dose changes, either increases or decreases.

    The following symptoms, anxiety, agitation, panic attacks, insomnia, irritability, hostility, aggressiveness, impulsivity, akathisia (psychomotor restlessness), hypomania, and mania, have been reported in adult and pediatric patients being treated with antidepressants for major depressive disorder as well as for other indications, both psychiatric and nonpsychiatric. Although a causal link between the emergence of such symptoms and either the worsening of depression and/or the emergence of suicidal impulses has not been established, there is concern that such symptoms may represent precursors to emerging suicidality.

    Consideration should be given to changing the therapeutic regimen, including possibly discontinuing the medication, in patients whose depression is persistently worse, or who are experiencing emergent suicidality or symptoms that might be precursors to worsening depression or suicidality, especially if these symptoms are severe, abrupt in onset, or were not part of the patient's presenting symptoms.

    If the decision has been made to discontinue treatment, medication should be tapered, as rapidly as is feasible, but with recognition that discontinuation can be associated with certain symptoms [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.8) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7)] for descriptions of the risks of discontinuation of duloxetine.

     

    Families and caregivers of patients being treated with antidepressants for major depressive disorder or other indications, both psychiatric and nonpsychiatric, should be alerted about the need to monitor patients for the emergence of agitation, irritability, unusual changes in behavior, and the other symptoms described above, as well as the emergence of suicidality, and to report such symptoms immediately to health care providers. Such monitoring should include daily observation by families and caregivers. Prescriptions for duloxetine should be written for the smallest quantity of capsules consistent with good patient management, in order to reduce the risk of overdose.

     

    Screening Patients for Bipolar Disorder 

    A major depressive episode may be the initial presentation of bipolar disorder. It is generally believed (though not established in controlled trials) that treating such an episode with an antidepressant alone may increase the likelihood of precipitation of a mixed/manic episode in patients at risk for bipolar disorder. Whether any of the symptoms described above represent such a conversion is unknown. However, prior to initiating treatment with an antidepressant, patients with depressive symptoms should be adequately screened to determine if they are at risk for bipolar disorder; such screening should include a detailed psychiatric history, including a family history of suicide, bipolar disorder, and depression. It should be noted that duloxetine is not approved for use in treating bipolar depression.

    5.2 Hepatotoxicity

    There have been reports of hepatic failure, sometimes fatal, in patients treated with duloxetine. These cases have presented as hepatitis with abdominal pain, hepatomegaly, and elevation of transaminase levels to more than twenty times the upper limit of normal (ULN) with or without jaundice, reflecting a mixed or hepatocellular pattern of liver injury. Duloxetine should be discontinued in patients who develop jaundice or other evidence of clinically significant liver dysfunction and should not be resumed unless another cause can be established.

    Cases of cholestatic jaundice with minimal elevation of transaminase levels have also been reported. Other postmarketing reports indicate that elevated transaminases, bilirubin, and alkaline phosphatase have occurred in patients with chronic liver disease or cirrhosis.

    Duloxetine increased the risk of elevation of serum transaminase levels in development program clinical trials. Liver transaminase elevations resulted in the discontinuation of 0.3% (92/34,756) of duloxetine-treated patients. In most patients, the median time to detection of the transaminase elevation was about two months. In adult placebo-controlled trials, for patients with normal and abnormal baseline ALT values, elevation of ALT greater than 3 times the ULN occurred in 1.25% (144/11,496) of duloxetine-treated patients compared to 0.45% (39/8716) of placebo-treated patients. In adult placebo-controlled studies using a fixed dose design, there was evidence of a duloxetine dose response relationship for ALT and AST elevation of greater than 3 times the ULN and greater than 5 times the ULN, respectively.

     Because it is possible that duloxetine and alcohol may interact to cause liver injury or that duloxetine may aggravate pre-existing liver disease, duloxetine delayed-release capsules should not be prescribed to patients with substantial alcohol use or evidence of chronic liver disease.

    5.3 Orthostatic Hypotension, Falls and Syncope

    Orthostatic hypotension, falls, and syncope have been reported in patients treated with the recommended duloxetine dosages. Syncope and orthostatic hypotension tend to occur within the first week of therapy but can occur at any time during duloxetine treatment, particularly after dose increases. The risk of falling appears to be related to the degree of orthostatic decrease in blood pressure (BP) as well as other factors that may increase the underlying risk of falls.

    In an analysis of patients from all placebo-controlled trials, patients treated with duloxetine reported a higher rate of falls compared to patients treated with placebo. Risk appears to be related to the presence of orthostatic decrease in BP. The risk of BP decreases may be greater in patients taking concomitant medications that induce orthostatic hypotension (such as antihypertensives) or are potent CYP1A2 inhibitors [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12) and Drug Interactions ( 7.1)] and in patients taking duloxetine at doses above 60 mg daily. Consideration should be given to dose reduction or discontinuation of duloxetine in patients who experience symptomatic orthostatic hypotension, falls and/or syncope during duloxetine therapy.

     Risk of falling also appeared to be proportional to a patient’s underlying risk for falls and appeared to increase steadily with age. As geriatric patients tend to have a higher underlying risk for falls due to a higher prevalence of risk factors such as use of multiple medications, medical comorbidities and gait disturbances, the impact of increasing age by itself is unclear. Falls with serious consequences including fractures and hospitalizations have been reported with duloxetine use [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1)].

    5.4 Serotonin Syndrome

    Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), including duloxetine, can precipitate serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. The risk is increased with concomitant use of other serotonergic drugs (including triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl, lithium, tramadol, meperidine, methadone, tryptophan, buspirone, amphetamines, and St. John’s Wort) and with drugs that impair metabolism of serotonin, i.e., MAOIs, [see Contraindications (4), Drug Interactions (7.13)]. Serotonin syndrome can also occur when these drugs are used alone.

    Serotonin syndrome signs and symptoms may include mental status changes (e.g., agitation, hallucinations, delirium, and coma), autonomic instability (e.g., tachycardia, labile blood pressure, dizziness, diaphoresis, flushing, hyperthermia), neuromuscular symptoms (e.g., tremor, rigidity, myoclonus, hyperreflexia, incoordination), seizures, and gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea).

    The concomitant use of duloxetine with MAOIs is contraindicated. In addition, do not initiate duloxetine in a patient being treated with MAOIs such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue. No reports involved the administration of methylene blue by other routes (such as oral tablets or local tissue injection). If it is necessary to initiate treatment with an MAOI such as linezolid or intravenous methylene blue in a patient taking duloxetine, discontinue duloxetine before initiating treatment with the MAOI [see Contraindications (4) and Drug Interactions (7.13)]. Monitor all patients taking duloxetine for the emergence of serotonin syndrome. Discontinue treatment with duloxetine and any concomitant serotonergic agents immediately if the above symptoms occur, and initiate supportive symptomatic treatment. If concomitant use of duloxetine with other serotonergic drugs is clinically warranted, inform patients of the increased risk for serotonin syndrome and monitor for symptoms.

    5.5 Increased Risk of Bleeding

    Drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake inhibition, including duloxetine, may increase the risk of bleeding events. Case reports and epidemiological studies (case-control and cohort design) have demonstrated an association between use of drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and the occurrence of gastrointestinal bleeding. A post-marketing study showed a higher incidence of postpartum hemorrhage in mothers taking duloxetine. Other bleeding events related to SSRI and SNRI use have ranged from ecchymoses, hematomas, epistaxis, and petechiae to life-threatening hemorrhages. Concomitant use of aspirin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), warfarin, and other anti-coagulants may add to this risk.

    Inform patients about the risk of increased bleeding associated with the concomitant use of duloxetine and NSAIDs, aspirin, or other drugs that affect coagulation [see Drug Interactions ( 7.4)] .

    5.6 Severe Skin Reactions

    Severe skin reactions, including erythema multiforme and Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (SJS), can occur with duloxetine. The reporting rate of SJS associated with duloxetine use exceeds the general population background incidence rate for this serious skin reaction (1 to 2 cases per million person years). The reporting rate is generally accepted to be an underestimate due to underreporting.

    Duloxetine should be discontinued at the first appearance of blisters, peeling rash, mucosal erosions, or any other sign of hypersensitivity if no other etiology can be identified.

    5.7 Discontinuation Syndrome

    Discontinuation symptoms have been systematically evaluated in patients taking duloxetine. Following abrupt or tapered discontinuation in adult placebo-controlled clinical trials, the following symptoms occurred at 1% or greater and at a significantly higher rate in duloxetine-treated patients compared to those discontinuing from placebo: dizziness, headache, nausea, diarrhea, paresthesia, irritability, vomiting, insomnia, anxiety, hyperhidrosis, and fatigue.

    During marketing of other SSRIs and SNRIs (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors), there have been spontaneous reports of adverse events occurring upon discontinuation of these drugs, particularly when abrupt, including the following: dysphoric mood, irritability, agitation, dizziness, sensory disturbances (e.g., paresthesias such as electric shock sensations), anxiety, confusion, headache, lethargy, emotional lability, insomnia, hypomania, tinnitus, and seizures. Although these events are generally self-limiting, some have been reported to be severe.

    Patients should be monitored for these symptoms when discontinuing treatment with duloxetine. A gradual reduction in the dose rather than abrupt cessation is recommended whenever possible. If intolerable symptoms occur following a decrease in the dose or upon discontinuation of treatment, then resuming the previously prescribed dose may be considered. Subsequently, the healthcare provider may continue decreasing the dose but at a more gradual rate [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.8)] .

    5.8 Activation of Mania/Hypomania

    In adult placebo-controlled trials in patients with MDD, activation of mania or hypomania was reported in 0.1% (4/3779) of duloxetine-treated patients and 0.04% (1/2536) of placebo-treated patients. No activation of mania or hypomania was reported in DPNP, GAD, fibromyalgia, or chronic musculoskeletal pain placebo-controlled trials. Activation of mania or hypomania has been reported in a small proportion of patients with mood disorders who were treated with other marketed drugs effective in the treatment of major depressive disorder. As with these other agents, duloxetine should be used cautiously in patients with a history of mania.

    5.9 Angle-Closure Glaucoma

    The pupillary dilation that occurs following use of many antidepressant drugs including duloxetine may trigger an angle closure attack in a patient with anatomically narrow angles who does not have a patent iridectomy.

    5.10 Seizures

    Duloxetine has not been systematically evaluated in patients with a seizure disorder, and such patients were excluded from clinical studies. In adult placebo-controlled clinical trials, seizures/convulsions occurred in 0.02% (3/12,722) of patients treated with duloxetine and 0.01% (1/9513) of patients treated with placebo. Duloxetine should be prescribed with care in patients with a history of a seizure disorder.

    5.11 Increases in Blood Pressure

    In adult placebo-controlled clinical trials across the approved adult populations from baseline to endpoint, duloxetine treatment was associated with mean increases of 0.5 mm Hg in systolic blood pressure and 0.8 mm Hg in diastolic blood pressure compared to mean decreases of 0.6 mm Hg systolic and 0.3 mm Hg diastolic in placebo- treated patients. There was no significant difference in the frequency of sustained (3 consecutive visits) elevated blood pressure. In a clinical pharmacology study designed to evaluate the effects of duloxetine on various parameters, including blood pressure at supratherapeutic doses with an accelerated dose titration, there was evidence of increases in supine blood pressure at doses up to 200 mg twice daily (approximately 3.3 times the maximum recommended dosage). At the highest 200 mg twice daily dose, the increase in mean pulse rate was 5.0 to 6.8 beats and increases in mean blood pressure were 4.7 to 6.8 mm Hg (systolic) and 4.5 to 7 mm Hg (diastolic) up to 12 hours after dosing.

     Blood pressure should be measured prior to initiating treatment and periodically measured throughout treatment [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1)] .

    5.12 Clinically Important Drug Interactions

    Both CYP1A2 and CYP2D6 are responsible for duloxetine metabolism.

    Potential for Other Drugs to Affect Duloxetine

    CYP1A2 Inhibitors— Co-administration of duloxetine with potent CYP1A2 inhibitors should be avoided [see Drug Interactions ( 7.1)] .

     

    CYP2D6 Inhibitors— Because CYP2D6 is involved in duloxetine metabolism, concomitant use of duloxetine with potent inhibitors of CYP2D6 would be expected to, and does, result in higher concentrations (on average of 60%) of duloxetine [see Drug Interactions ( 7.2)] .

    Potential for Duloxetine to Affect Other Drugs

    Drugs Metabolized by CYP2D6— Co-administration of duloxetine with drugs that are extensively metabolized by CYP2D6 and that have a narrow therapeutic index, including certain antidepressants (tricyclic antidepressants [TCAs], such as nortriptyline, amitriptyline, and imipramine), phenothiazines and Type 1C antiarrhythmics (e.g., propafenone, flecainide), should be approached with caution. Plasma TCA concentrations may need to be monitored and the dose of the TCA may need to be reduced if a TCA is co-administered with duloxetine. Because of the risk of serious ventricular arrhythmias and sudden death potentially associated with elevated plasma levels of thioridazine, duloxetine and thioridazine should not be co-administered [see Drug Interactions ( 7.9)] .

    Other Clinically Important Drug Interactions

    Alcohol— Use of duloxetine concomitantly with heavy alcohol intake may be associated with severe liver injury. For this reason, duloxetine should not be prescribed for patients with substantial alcohol use [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2) and Drug Interactions ( 7.15)] .

     

    CNS Acting Drugs— Given the primary CNS effects of duloxetine, it should be used with caution when it is taken in combination with or substituted for other centrally acting drugs, including those with a similar mechanism of action [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12) and Drug Interactions ( 7.16)] .

    5.13 Hyponatremia

    Hyponatremia may occur as a result of treatment with SSRIs and SNRIs, including duloxetine. In many cases, this hyponatremia appears to be the result of the syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH). Cases with serum sodium lower than 110 mmol/L have been reported with duloxetine use and appeared to be reversible when duloxetine was discontinued. Geriatric patients may be at greater risk of developing hyponatremia with SSRIs and SNRIs. Also, patients taking diuretics or who are otherwise volume depleted may be at greater risk [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.5)] . Discontinuation of duloxetine should be considered in patients with symptomatic hyponatremia and appropriate medical intervention should be instituted.

    Signs and symptoms of hyponatremia include headache, difficulty concentrating, memory impairment, confusion, weakness, and unsteadiness, which may lead to falls. More severe and/or acute cases have been associated with hallucination, syncope, seizure, coma, respiratory arrest, and death.

    5.14 Use in Patients with Concomitant Illness

    Clinical experience with duloxetine in patients with concomitant systemic illnesses is limited. There is no information on the effect that alterations in gastric motility may have on the stability of duloxetine's enteric coating. In extremely acidic conditions, duloxetine, unprotected by the enteric coating, may undergo hydrolysis to form naphthol. Caution is advised in using duloxetine in patients with conditions that may slow gastric emptying (e.g., some diabetics).

    Duloxetine has not been systematically evaluated in patients with a recent history of myocardial infarction or unstable coronary artery disease. Patients with these diagnoses were generally excluded from clinical studies during the product's premarketing testing.

    Hepatic Impairment

    Avoid use in patients with chronic liver disease or cirrhosis [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2), and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.9)].

    Severe Renal Impairment

    Avoid use in patients with severe renal impairment, GFR less than 30 mL/minute. Increased plasma concentration of duloxetine, and especially of its metabolites, occurred in patients with end-stage renal disease (requiring dialysis) [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.10)].

    Glycemic Control in Patients with Diabetes

     As observed in DPNP trials, duloxetine treatment worsened glycemic control in some patients with diabetes. In three clinical trials of duloxetine for the management of neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy [see Clinical Studies ( 14.4)] , the mean duration of diabetes was approximately 12 years, the mean baseline fasting blood glucose was 176 mg/dL, and the mean baseline hemoglobin A 1c(HbA 1c) was 7.8%. In the 12-week acute treatment phase of these studies, duloxetine was associated with a small increase in mean fasting blood glucose as compared to placebo. In the extension phase of these studies, which lasted up to 52 weeks, mean fasting blood glucose increased by 12 mg/dL in the duloxetine group and decreased by 11.5 mg/dL in the routine care group. HbA 1cincreased by 0.5% in the duloxetine group and by 0.2% in the routine care group.

    5.15 Urinary Hesitation and Retention

    Duloxetine is in a class of drugs known to affect urethral resistance. If symptoms of urinary hesitation develop during treatment with duloxetine, consideration should be given to the possibility that they might be drug-related.

    In post marketing experience, cases of urinary retention have been observed. In some instances of urinary retention associated with duloxetine use, hospitalization and/or catheterization has been needed.

    5.16 Sexual Dysfunction

    Use of SNRIs, including duloxetine, may cause symptoms of sexual dysfunction [see Adverse Reactions (6.1)] . In male patients, SNRI use may result in ejaculatory delay or failure, decreased libido, and erectile dysfunction. In female patients, SNRI use may result in decreased libido and delayed or absent orgasm.
    It is important for prescribers to inquire about sexual function prior to initiation of duloxetine and to inquire specifically about changes in sexual function during treatment, because sexual function may not be spontaneously reported. When evaluating changes in sexual function, obtaining a detailed history (including timing of symptom onset) is important because sexual symptoms may have other causes, including the underlying psychiatric disorder. Discuss potential management strategies to support patients in making informed decisions about treatment.

  • 6 ADVERSE REACTIONS

    The following serious adverse reactions are described below and elsewhere in the labeling:

    • Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors in Children, Adolescents and Young Adults [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1)]
    • Hepatotoxicity [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2)]
    • Orthostatic Hypotension, Falls and Syncope [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3)]
    • Serotonin Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4)]
    • Increased Risk of Bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5)]
    • Severe Skin Reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6)]
    • Discontinuation Syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7)]
    • Activation of Mania/Hypomania [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8)]
    • Angle-Closure Glaucoma [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9)]
    • Seizures [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10)]
    • Increases in Blood Pressure [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.11)]
    • Clinically Important Drug Interactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12)]
    • Hyponatremia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.13)]
    • Urinary Hesitation and Retention [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.15)]
    • Sexual Dysfunction [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.16)]

    6.1 Clinical Trials Experience

    Because clinical trials are conducted under widely varying conditions, adverse reaction rates observed in the clinical trials of a drug cannot be directly compared to rates in the clinical trials of another drug and may not reflect the rates observed in practice.

    The stated frequencies of adverse reactions represent the proportion of patients who experienced, at least once, one treatment-emergent adverse reaction of the type listed. A reaction was considered treatment-emergent if it occurred for the first time or worsened while receiving therapy following baseline evaluation.

     

    Adverse Reactions in Adults

    Adult Clinical Trial Database

    The data described below reflect exposure to duloxetine delayed-release capsules in placebo-controlled adult trials for MDD (N=3779), GAD (N=1018), OA (N=503), CLBP (N=600), DPNP (N=906), and FM (N=1294). The age range in this pooled population was 17 years to 89 years of age. In this pooled population, 66%, 61%, 61%, 43%, and 94% of adult patients were female; and 82%, 73%, 85%, 74%, and 86% of adult patients were Caucasian in the MDD, GAD, OA and CLBP, DPNP, and FM populations, respectively. Most patients received duloxetine delayed-release capsules dosages of a total of 60 mg to 120 mg per day [see Clinical Studies ( 14)] . The data below do not include results of the trial that evaluated the efficacy of duloxetine delayed-release capsules for the treatment of GAD in patients greater than or equal to 65 years old (Study GAD-5) [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3)] ; however, the adverse reactions observed in this geriatric population were generally similar to adverse reactions in the overall adult population.

    Adverse Reactions Leading to Treatment Discontinuation in Adult Placebo-Controlled Trials

    Major Depressive Disorder

    Approximately 8.4% (319/3779) of duloxetine -treated patients in placebo-controlled adult trials for MDD discontinued treatment due to an adverse reaction, compared with 4.6% (117/2536) of placebo-treated patients. Nausea (duloxetine 1.1%, placebo 0.4%) was the only adverse reaction reported as a reason for discontinuation and considered to be drug-related (i.e., discontinuation occurring in at least 1% of the duloxetine -treated patients and at a rate of at least twice that of placebo-treated patients).

    Generalized Anxiety Disorder

    Approximately 13.7% (139/1018) of the duloxetine -treated patients in placebo-controlled adult trials for GAD discontinued treatment due to an adverse reaction, compared with 5% (38/767) for placebo-treated patients. Common adverse reactions reported as a reason for discontinuation and considered to be drug-related (as defined above) included nausea (duloxetine 3.3%, placebo 0.4%), and dizziness (duloxetine 1.3%, placebo 0.4%).

     

    Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain 

    Approximately 12.9% (117/906) of the duloxetine -treated patients in placebo-controlled adult trials for DPNP discontinued treatment due to an adverse reaction, compared with 5.1% (23/448) for placebo-treated patients. Common adverse reactions reported as a reason for discontinuation and considered to be drug-related (as defined above) included nausea (duloxetine 3.5%, placebo 0.7%), dizziness (duloxetine 1.2%, placebo 0.4%), and somnolence (duloxetine 1.1%, placebo 0 %).

    Fibromyalgia

    Approximately 17.5% (227/1294) of the duloxetine -treated patients in 3- to 6- month placebo-controlled adult trials for FM discontinued treatment due to an adverse reaction, compared with 10.1% (96/955) for placebo-treated patients. Adverse reactions reported as a reason for discontinuation and considered to be drug-related (as defined above) included nausea (duloxetine 2.0%, placebo 0.5%), headache (duloxetine 1.2%, placebo 0.3%), somnolence (duloxetine 1.1%, placebo 0%), and fatigue (duloxetine 1.1%, placebo 0.1%).

    Chronic Pain due to Osteoarthritis

    Approximately 15.7% (79/503) of the duloxetine -treated patients in 13-week, placebo-controlled adult trials for chronic pain due to OA discontinued treatment due to an adverse reaction, compared with 7.3% (37/508) for placebo-treated patients. Adverse reactions reported as a reason for discontinuation and considered to be drug-related (as defined above) included nausea (duloxetine 2.2%, placebo 1%).

    Chronic Low Back Pain

    Approximately 16.5% (99/600) of the duloxetine -treated patients in 13-week, placebo-controlled adult trials for CLBP discontinued treatment due to an adverse reaction, compared with 6.3% (28/441) for placebo-treated patients. Adverse reactions reported as a reason for discontinuation and considered to be drug-related (as defined above) included nausea (duloxetine 3%, placebo 0.7%), and somnolence (duloxetine 1%, placebo 0%).

    Most Common Adverse Reactions in Adult Trials

    The most commonly observed adverse reactions in duloxetine -treated patients (as defined above) were:

    • Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain: nausea, somnolence, decreased appetite, constipation, hyperhidrosis, and dry mouth.
    • Fibromyalgia: nausea, dry mouth, constipation, somnolence, decreased appetite, hyperhidrosis, and agitation.
    • Chronic Pain due to Osteoarthritis: nausea, fatigue, constipation, dry mouth, insomnia, somnolence, and dizziness.
    • Chronic Low Back Pain: nausea, dry mouth, insomnia, somnolence, constipation, dizziness, and fatigue.

    The most commonly observed adverse reactions in duloxetine -treated patients in all the pooled adult populations (i.e., MDD, GAD, DPNP, FM, OA, and CLBP) (incidence of at least 5% and at least twice the incidence in placebo-treated patients) were nausea, dry mouth, somnolence, constipation, decreased appetite, and hyperhidrosis.

    Table 2 displays the incidence of adverse reactions in placebo-controlled trials for approved adult populations (i.e., MDD, GAD, DPNP, FM, OA, and CLBP) that occurred in 5% or more of duloxetine-treated patients and with an incidence greater than placebo-treated patients.

    Table 2: Adverse Reactions: Incidence of 5% or More and Greater than Placebo in Placebo-Controlled Trials of Approved Adult Populations a

     

    Adverse Reaction

    Percentage of Patients Reporting Reaction

    Duloxetine
    (N=8100)

    Placebo
    (N=5655)

     Nausea c

     23

     8

     Headache

     14

     12

     Dry mouth

     13

     5

     Somnolence e

     10

     3

     Fatigue b, c

     9

     5

     Insomnia d

     9

     5

     Constipation c

     9

     4

     Dizziness c

     9

     5

     Diarrhea

     9

     6

     Decreased appetite c

     7

     2

     Hyperhidrosis c

     6

     1

     Abdominal pain f

     5

     4

    aIncludes adults with MDD, GAD, DPNP, FM, and chronic musculoskeletal pain. The inclusion of an event in the table is determined based on the percentages before rounding; however, the percentages displayed in the table are rounded to the nearest integer.

    bAlso includes asthenia.

    cEvents for which there was a significant dose-dependent relationship in fixed-dose studies, excluding three MDD studies which did not have a placebo lead-in period or dose titration.

    dAlso includes initial insomnia, middle insomnia, and early morning awakening.

    eAlso includes hypersomnia and sedation.

    fAlso includes abdominal discomfort, abdominal pain lower, abdominal pain upper, abdominal tenderness, and gastrointestinal pain.

    Adverse Reactions in Pooled MDD and GAD Trials in Adults

    Table 3 displays the incidence of adverse reactions in MDD and GAD placebo-controlled adult trials that occurred in 2% or more of duloxetine -treated patients and with an incidence greater than placebo-treated patients.

    Table 3: Adverse Reactions: Incidence of 2% or More and Greater than Placebo in MDD and GAD Placebo-Controlled Trials in Adults a, b

     

    System Organ Class / Adverse Reaction

    Percentage of Patients Reporting Reaction

    Duloxetine
    (N=4797)

    Placebo
    (N=3303)

    Cardiac Disorders

     Palpitations

     2

     1

    Eye Disorders

     Vision blurred

     3

     1

    Gastrointestinal Disorders

     Nausea c

     23

     8

     Dry mouth

     14

     6

     Constipation c

     9

     4

     Diarrhea

     9

     6

     Abdominal pain d

     5

     4

     Vomiting

     4

     2

    General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions

     Fatigue e

     9

     5

    Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders

     Decreased appetite c

     6

     2

    Nervous System Disorders

     Headache

     14

     14

     Dizziness c

     9

     5

     Somnolence f

     9

     3

     Tremor

     3

     1

    Psychiatric Disorders

     Insomnia g

     9

     5

     Agitation h

     4

     2

     Anxiety

     3

     2

    Reproductive System and Breast Disorders

     Erectile dysfunction

     4

     1

     Ejaculation delayed c

     2

     1

     Libido decreased i

     3

     1

     Orgasm abnormal j

     2

     <1

    Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal Disorders

     Yawning

     2

     <1

    Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders

     Hyperhidrosis

     6

     2

    aThe inclusion of an event in the table is determined based on the percentages before rounding; however, the percentages displayed in the table are rounded to the nearest integer.

    bFor GAD, there were no adverse reactions that were significantly different between treatments in adults greater than or equal to 65 years that were also not significant in the adults less than 65 years.

    cEvents for which there was a significant dose-dependent relationship in fixed-dose studies, excluding three MDD studies which did not have a placebo lead-in period or dose titration.

    dIncludes abdominal pain upper, abdominal pain lower, abdominal tenderness, abdominal discomfort, and gastrointestinal pain.

    eIncludes asthenia.

    fIncludes hypersomnia and sedation.

    gIncludes initial insomnia, middle insomnia, and early morning awakening.

    hIncludes feeling jittery, nervousness, restlessness, tension and psychomotor hyperactivity.

    iIncludes loss of libido.

    jIncludes anorgasmia.

    Adverse Reactions in the DPNP, FM, OA, and CLBP Adult Trials

    Table 4 displays the incidence of adverse reactions that occurred in 2% or more of duloxetine -treated patients (determined prior to rounding) in the premarketing acute phase of DPNP, FM, OA, and CLBP placebo-controlled adult trials and with an incidence greater than placebo-treated patients.

    Table 4: Adverse Reactions: Incidence of 2% or More and Greater than Placebo in DPNP, FM, OA, and CLBP Placebo-Controlled Trials a

    System Organ Class / Adverse Reaction

    Percentage of Patients Reporting Reaction

    Duloxetine
    (N=3303)

    Placebo
    (N=2352)

    Gastrointestinal Disorders

     Nausea

     23

     7

     Dry Mouth b

     11

     3

     Constipation b

     10

     3

     Diarrhea

     9

     5

     Abdominal Pain c

     5

     4

     Vomiting

     3

     2

     Dyspepsia

     2

     1

    General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions

     Fatigue d

     11

     5

    Infections and Infestations

     Nasopharyngitis

     4

     4

     Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

     3

     3

     Influenza

     2

     2

    Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders

     Decreased Appetite b

     8

     1

    Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue
    Musculoskeletal Pain e


    3


    3

     Muscle Spasms

     2

     2

    Nervous System Disorders

     Headache

     13

     8

     Somnolence b, f

     11

     3

     Dizziness

     9

     5

     Paraesthesia g

     2

     2

     Tremor b

     2

     <1

    Psychiatric Disorders

     Insomnia b, h

     10

     5

     Agitation i

     3

     1

    Reproductive System and Breast Disorders

     Erectile Dysfunction b

     4

     <1

     Ejaculation Disorder j

     2

     <1

    Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal Disorders

     Cough

     2

     2

    Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders

     Hyperhidrosis

     6

     1

    Vascular Disorders

     Flushing k

     3

     1

     Blood pressure increased l

     2

     1

    aThe inclusion of an event in the table is determined based on the percentages before rounding; however, the percentages displayed in the table are rounded to the nearest integer.

    bIncidence of 120 mg/day is significantly greater than the incidence for 60 mg/day.

    cIncludes abdominal discomfort, lower abdominal pain, upper abdominal pain, abdominal tenderness and gastrointestinal pain.

    dIncludes asthenia.

    eIncludes myalgia and neck pain.

    fIncludes hypersomnia and sedation.

    gIncludes hypoaesthesia, facial hypoaesthesia, genital hypoaesthesia and oral paraesthesia.

    hIncludes initial insomnia, middle insomnia, and early morning awakening.

    iIncludes feeling jittery, nervousness, restlessness, tension and psychomotor hyperactivity.

    jIncludes ejaculation failure.

    kIncludes hot flush.

    lIncludes increased diastolic blood pressure, increased systolic blood pressure, diastolic hypertension, essential hypertension, hypertension, hypertensive crisis, labile hypertension, orthostatic hypertension, secondary hypertension, and systolic hypertension.

    Effects on Male and Female Sexual Function in Adults with MDD

    Changes in sexual desire, sexual performance and sexual satisfaction often occur as manifestations of psychiatric disorders or diabetes, but they may also be a consequence of pharmacologic treatment. Because adverse sexual reactions are presumed to be voluntarily underreported, the Arizona Sexual Experience Scale (ASEX), a validated measure designed to identify sexual adverse reactions, was used prospectively in 4 MDD placebo-controlled adult trials (Studies MDD-1, MDD-2, MDD-3, and MDD-4) [see Clinical Studies ( 14.2)] . The ASEX scale includes five questions that pertain to the following aspects of sexual function: 1) sex drive, 2) ease of arousal, 3) ability to achieve erection (men) or lubrication (women), 4) ease of reaching orgasm, and 5) orgasm satisfaction. Positive numbers signify a worsening of sexual function from baseline. Negative numbers signify an improvement from a baseline level of dysfunction, which is commonly seen in depressed patients.

    In these trials, duloxetine -treated male patients experienced significantly more sexual dysfunction, as measured by the total score on the ASEX and the ability to reach orgasm, than placebo-treated male patients (see Table 5). duloxetine -treated female patients did not experience more sexual dysfunction than placebo-treated female patients as measured by ASEX total score. Healthcare providers should routinely inquire about possible sexual adverse reactions in duloxetine -treated patients.

    Table 5: Mean Change in ASEX Scores by Gender in MDD Placebo-Controlled Adult Trials

      

    Male Patients a

    Female Patients a

    Duloxetine
    (n=175)

    Placebo
    (n=83)

    Duloxetine
    (n=241)

    Placebo
    (n=126)

     ASEX Total (Items 1 to 5)

     0.56 b

     -1.07

     -1.15

     -1.07

     Item 1 — Sex drive

     -0.07

     -0.12

     -0.32

     -0.24

     Item 2 — Arousal

     0.01

     -0.26

     -0.21

     -0.18

     Item 3 — Ability to achieve erection (men); Lubrication (women)

     0.03

     -0.25

     -0.17

     -0.18

     Item 4 — Ease of reaching orgasm

     0.40 c

     -0.24

     -0.09

     -0.13

     Item 5 — Orgasm satisfaction

     0.09

     -0.13

     -0.11

     -0.17

    a n=Number of patients with non-missing change score for ASEX total.

    bp=0.013 versus placebo.

    cp less than 0.001 versus placebo.

    Vital Sign Changes in Adults

    In placebo-controlled clinical trials across approved adult populations for change from baseline to endpoint, duloxetine treated patients had mean increases of 0.23 mm Hg in systolic blood pressure (SBP) and 0.73 mm Hg in diastolic blood pressure (DBP) compared to mean decreases of 1.09 mm Hg in SBP and 0.55 mm Hg in DBP in placebo-treated patients. There was no significant difference in the frequency of sustained (3 consecutive visits) elevated blood pressure [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3, 5.11)] .

    Duloxetine treatment, for up to 26 weeks in placebo-controlled trials across approved adult populations, typically caused a small increase in heart rate for change from baseline to endpoint compared to placebo of up to 1.37 beats per minute (increase of 1.20 beats per minute in duloxetine -treated patients, decrease of 0.17 beats per minute in placebo-treated patients).

     

    Laboratory Changes in Adults

    Duloxetine treatment in placebo-controlled clinical trials across approved adult populations, was associated with small mean increases from baseline to endpoint in ALT, AST, CPK, and alkaline phosphatase; infrequent, modest, transient, abnormal values were observed for these analytes in duloxetine -treated patients when compared with placebo-treated patients [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2)] . High bicarbonate, cholesterol, and abnormal (high or low) potassium, were observed more frequently in duloxetine-treated patients compared to placebo-treated patients.

     

    Other Adverse Reactions Observed During the Clinical Trial Evaluation of Duloxetine in Adults

    Following is a list of adverse reactions reported by patients treated with-duloxetine in clinical adult trials. In clinical trials of all approved adult populations, 34,756 patients were treated with duloxetine. Of these, 27% (9337) took duloxetine for at least 6 months, and 12% (4317) took duloxetine for at least one year. The following listing is not intended to include reactions (1) already listed in previous tables or elsewhere in labeling, (2) for which a drug cause was remote, (3) which were so general as to be uninformative, (4) which were not considered to have significant clinical implications, or (5) which occurred at a rate equal to or less than placebo.

    Reactions are categorized by body system according to the following definitions: frequent adverse reactions are those occurring in at least 1/100 patients; infrequent adverse reactions are those occurring in 1/100 to 1/1000 patients; rare reactions are those occurring in fewer than 1/1000 patients.

    • Cardiac Disorders — Frequent:palpitations; Infrequent:myocardial infarction, tachycardia, and Takotsubo cardiomyopathy.
    • Ear and Labyrinth Disorders— Frequent:vertigo; Infrequent:ear pain and tinnitus.
    • Endocrine Disorders— Infrequent:hypothyroidism.
    • Eye Disorders— Frequent:vision blurred; Infrequent:diplopia, dry eye, and visual impairment.
    • Gastrointestinal Disorders— Frequent:flatulence; Infrequent:dysphagia, eructation, gastritis, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, halitosis, and stomatitis; Rare:gastric ulcer.
    • General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions— Frequent:chills/rigors; Infrequent:falls, feeling abnormal, feeling hot and/or cold, malaise, and thirst; Rare:gait disturbance.
    • Infections and Infestations— Infrequent:gastroenteritis and laryngitis.
    • Investigations— Frequent:weight increased, weight decreased; Infrequent:blood cholesterol increased.
    • Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders— Infrequent:dehydration and hyperlipidemia; Rare:dyslipidemia.
    • Musculoskeletal and Connective Tissue Disorders— Frequent:musculoskeletal pain; Infrequent:muscle tightness and muscle twitching.
    • Nervous System Disorders— Frequent:dysgeusia, lethargy, and paraesthesia/hypoesthesia; Infrequent:disturbance in attention, dyskinesia, myoclonus, and poor quality sleep; Rare:dysarthria.
    • Psychiatric Disorders— Frequent:abnormal dreams and sleep disorder; Infrequent:apathy, bruxism, disorientation/confusional state, irritability, mood swings, and suicide attempt; Rare:completed suicide.
    • Renal and Urinary Disorders— Frequent:urinary frequency; Infrequent:dysuria, micturition urgency, nocturia, polyuria, and urine odor abnormal.
    • Reproductive System and Breast Disorders— Frequent:anorgasmia/orgasm abnormal; Infrequent:menopausal symptoms, sexual dysfunction, and testicular pain; Rare:menstrual disorder.
    • Respiratory, Thoracic and Mediastinal Disorders— Frequent:yawning, oropharyngeal pain; Infrequent:throat tightness.
    • Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue Disorders— Frequent:pruritus; Infrequent:cold sweat, dermatitis contact, erythema, increased tendency to bruise, night sweats, and photosensitivity reaction; Rare:ecchymosis .
    • Vascular Disorders— Frequent:hot flush; Infrequent:flushing, orthostatic hypotension, and peripheral coldness.

     

    Adverse Reactions Observed in Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trials in Pediatric Patients

    Pediatric Clinical Trial Database

    The data described below reflect exposure to duloxetine (N=567) in pediatric patients aged 7 years to 18 years of age from two 10-week, placebo-controlled trials in patients with MDD (N=341) (Studies MDD-6 and MDD-7), one 10-week placebo-controlled trial in GAD (N=135) (Study GAD-6), and a 13-week trial in fibromyalgia (N=91). Duloxetine is not approved for the treatment of MDD in pediatric patients [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4)]. Of the duloxetine-treated patients in these studies, 36% were 7 years to 11 years of age (64% were between 12 years to 18 years old), 55% were female, and 69% were Caucasian. Patients received 30 mg to 120 mg of duloxetine per day during placebo-controlled acute treatment studies. In the pediatric MDD, GAD, and fibromyalgia trials up to 40 weeks long, there were 988 duloxetine -treated pediatric patients aged 7 years to 17 years of age (most patients received 30 mg to 120 mg per day) – 35% were 7 years to 11 years of age (65% were 12 years to 17 years old) and 56% were female.

    Most Common Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Trials

    The most common adverse reactions (greater than or equal to 5% in duloxetine -treated patients and at least twice the incidence of placebo-treated patients) in all pooled pediatric populations (MDD, GAD, and fibromyalgia) were decreased weight, decreased appetite, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and diarrhea.

     

    Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients Aged 7 Years to 17 Years Old with MDD and GAD

    The adverse reaction profile observed in clinical trials in pediatric patients aged 7 years to 18 years old with MDD and GAD was consistent with the adverse reaction profile observed in adult clinical trials. The most common (greater than or equal to 5% and twice placebo) adverse reactions observed in these pediatric clinical trials included: nausea, diarrhea, decreased weight, and dizziness.

    Table 6 provides the incidence of adverse reactions in MDD and GAD pediatric placebo-controlled trials that occurred in greater than 2% of patients treated with duloxetine and with an incidence greater than patients treated with placebo. Duloxetine is not approved in the treatment of MDD in pediatric patients [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4)].

    Table 6:  Adverse Reactions: Incidence of 2% or More and Greater than Placebo in Three 10-week Pediatric Placebo-Controlled Trials in MDD and GAD a

      

    System Organ Class/Adverse Reaction

    Percentage of Pediatric Patients Reporting Reaction

    Duloxetine

    Placebo

    (N=476)

    (N=362)

    Gastrointestinal Disorders

     Nausea

     18

     8

     Abdominal Pain b

     13

     10

     Vomiting

     9

     4

     Diarrhea

     6

     3

     Dry Mouth

     2

     1

    General Disorders and Administration Site Conditions

     Fatigue c

     7

     5

    Investigations

     Decreased Weight d

     14

     6

    Metabolism and Nutrition Disorders

     Decreased Appetite

     10

     5

    Nervous System Disorders

     Headache

     18

     13

     Somnolence e

     11

     6

     Dizziness

     8

     4

    Psychiatric Disorders

     Insomnia f

     7

     4

    Respiratory, Thoracic, and Mediastinal Disorders

     Oropharyngeal Pain

     4

     2

     Cough

     3

     1

    a Duloxetine is not approved for the treatment of pediatric MDD [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4)] . The inclusion of an event in the table is determined based on the percentages before rounding; however, the percentages displayed in the table are rounded to the nearest integer.

    bAlso includes abdominal pain upper, abdominal pain lower, abdominal tenderness, abdominal discomfort, and gastrointestinal pain.

    cAlso includes asthenia.

    dFrequency based on weight measurement meeting potentially clinically significant threshold of greater than or equal to 3.5% weight loss (N=467 duloxetine; N=354 Placebo).

    eAlso includes hypersomnia and sedation.

    fAlso includes initial insomnia, insomnia, middle insomnia, and terminal insomnia.

    Other adverse reactions that occurred at an incidence of less than 2% and were reported by more duloxetine-treated patients than placebo-treated patients in pediatric MDD and GAD clinical trials included: abnormal dreams (including nightmare), anxiety, flushing (including hot flush), hyperhidrosis, palpitations, pulse increased, and tremor (duloxetine is not approved to treat pediatric patients with MDD).

    The most commonly reported symptoms following discontinuation of duloxetine in pediatric MDD and GAD clinical trials included headache, dizziness, insomnia, and abdominal pain [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7)] .

    Growth (Height and Weight) in Pediatric Patients 7 Years to 17 Years Old with GAD and MDD

    Decreased appetite and weight loss have been observed in association with the use of SSRIs and SNRIs. Duloxetine -treated pediatric patients in clinical trials experienced a 0.1kg mean decrease in weight at 10 weeks, compared with a mean weight gain of approximately 0.9 kg in placebo-treated pediatric patients. The proportion of patients who experienced a clinically significant decrease in weight (greater than or equal to 3.5%) was greater in the duloxetine group than in the placebo group (16% and 6%, respectively). Subsequently, over the 4- to 6-month uncontrolled extension periods, duloxetine -treated patients on average trended toward recovery to their expected baseline weight percentile based on population data from age- and sex-matched peers.

     

    In studies up to 9 months, duloxetine -treated pediatric patients experienced an increase in height of 1.7 cm on average (2.2 cm increase in patients 7 years to 11 years of age and 1.3 cm increase in patients 12 years to 17 years of age). While height increase was observed during these studies, a mean decrease of 1% in height percentile was observed (decrease of 2% in patients 7 years to 11 years of age and increase of 0.3% in patients 12 years to 17 years of age). Weight and height should be monitored regularly in pediatric patients treated with duloxetine [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.4)].

    Adverse Reactions in Pediatric Patients Aged 13 Years to 17 Years Old with Fibromyalgia Table 7 provides the incidence of adverse reactions in a fibromyalgia pediatric placebo-controlled trial (Study FM-4) that occurred in greater than 5% of patients treated with duloxetine and with an incidence greater than patients treated with placebo [see Clinical Studies ( 14.5)].
    Table 7: Adverse Reactions: Incidence of 5% or More and Greater than Placebo in a 13-week Placebo-Controlled Trial in Pediatric Patients 13 Years to 17 Years Old with Fibromyalgia (Study FM-4) a

    Duloxetine

    (N=91)

    Placebo

    (N=93)

    Nausea

    25%

    15%

    Decreased appetite

    15%

    3%

    Vomiting

    15%

    5%

    Decreased weight b

    15%

    5%

    Headache

    14%

    11%

    Nasopharyngitis

    9%

    2%

    Somnolence

    9%

    3%

    Upper respiratory tract infection

    7%

    2%

    Viral gastroenteritis

    5%

    0%

    Fatigue

    5%

    2%

    aThe inclusion of an event in the table is determined based on the percentages before rounding; however, the percentages displayed in the table are rounded to the nearest integer.

    bFrequency based on weight measurement meeting potentially clinically significant threshold of greater than or equal to 3.5% weight loss (N=89 duloxetine; N=92 Placebo).

    6.2 Postmarketing Experience

    The following adverse reactions have been identified during post approval use of duloxetine. Because these reactions are reported voluntarily from a population of uncertain size, it is not always possible to reliably estimate their frequency or establish a causal relationship to drug exposure.

    Adverse reactions reported since market introduction that were temporally related to duloxetine therapy and not mentioned elsewhere in labeling include: acute pancreatitis, anaphylactic reaction, aggression and anger (particularly early in treatment or after treatment discontinuation), angioneurotic edema, angle-closure glaucoma, colitis (microscopic or unspecified), cutaneous vasculitis (sometimes associated with systemic involvement), extrapyramidal disorder, galactorrhea, gynecological bleeding, hallucinations, hyperglycemia, hyperprolactinemia, hypersensitivity, hypertensive crisis, muscle spasm, rash, restless legs syndrome, seizures upon treatment discontinuation, supraventricular arrhythmia, tinnitus (upon treatment discontinuation), trismus, and urticaria.

  • 7 DRUG INTERACTIONS

    Both CYP1A2 and CYP2D6 are responsible for duloxetine metabolism.

    7.1 Inhibitors of CYP1A2

    When duloxetine 60 mg was co-administered with fluvoxamine 100 mg, a potent CYP1A2 inhibitor, to male subjects (n=14) duloxetine AUC was increased approximately 6-fold, the C maxwas increased about 2.5-fold, and duloxetine t ½was increased approximately 3-fold. Other drugs that inhibit CYP1A2 metabolism include cimetidine and quinolone antimicrobials such as ciprofloxacin and enoxacin [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12)] .

    7.2 Inhibitors of CYP2D6

    Concomitant use of duloxetine (40 mg once daily) with paroxetine (20 mg once daily) increased the concentration of duloxetine AUC by about 60%, and greater degrees of inhibition are expected with higher doses of paroxetine. Similar effects would be expected with other potent CYP2D6 inhibitors (e.g., fluoxetine, quinidine) [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12)] .

    7.3 Dual Inhibition of CYP1A2 and CYP2D6

    Concomitant administration of duloxetine 40 mg twice daily with fluvoxamine 100 mg, a potent CYP1A2 inhibitor, to CYP2D6 poor metabolizer subjects (n=14) resulted in a 6-fold increase in duloxetine AUC and C max.

    7.4 Drugs that Interfere with Hemostasis (e.g., NSAIDs, Aspirin, and Warfarin)

    Serotonin release by platelets plays an important role in hemostasis. Epidemiological studies of the case-control and cohort design that have demonstrated an association between use of psychotropic drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and the occurrence of upper gastrointestinal bleeding have also shown that concurrent use of an NSAID or aspirin may potentiate this risk of bleeding. Altered anticoagulant effects, including increased bleeding, have been reported when SSRIs or SNRIs are co-administered with warfarin. Concomitant administration of warfarin (2 mg to 9 mg once daily) under steady state conditions with duloxetine 60 mg or 120 mg once daily for up to 14 days in healthy subjects (n=15) did not significantly change INR from baseline (mean INR changes ranged from 0.05 to +0.07). The total warfarin (protein bound plus free drug) pharmacokinetics (AUC T,ss,C max,ssor t max,ss) for both R- and S-warfarin were not altered by duloxetine. Because of the potential effect of duloxetine on platelets, patients receiving warfarin therapy should be carefully monitored when duloxetine is initiated or discontinued [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5)] .

    7.5 Lorazepam

    Under steady-state conditions for duloxetine (60 mg Q 12 hours) and lorazepam (2 mg Q 12 hours), the pharmacokinetics of duloxetine were not affected by co-administration.

    7.6 Temazepam

    Under steady-state conditions for duloxetine (20 mg qhs) and temazepam (30 mg qhs), the pharmacokinetics of duloxetine were not affected by co-administration.

    7.7 Drugs that Affect Gastric Acidity

    Duloxetine has an enteric coating that resists dissolution until reaching a segment of the gastrointestinal tract where the pH exceeds 5.5. In extremely acidic conditions, duloxetine, unprotected by the enteric coating, may undergo hydrolysis to form naphthol. Caution is advised in using duloxetine in patients with conditions that may slow gastric emptying (e.g., some diabetics). Drugs that raise the gastrointestinal pH may lead to an earlier release of duloxetine. However, co-administration of duloxetine with aluminum- and magnesium-containing antacids (51 mEq) or duloxetine with famotidine, had no significant effect on the rate or extent of duloxetine absorption after administration of a 40 mg oral dose. It is unknown whether the concomitant administration of proton pump inhibitors affects duloxetine absorption [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.14)] .

    7.8 Drugs Metabolized by CYP1A2

    In vitrodrug interaction studies demonstrate that duloxetine does not induce CYP1A2 activity. Therefore, an increase in the metabolism of CYP1A2 substrates (e.g., theophylline, caffeine) resulting from induction is not anticipated, although clinical studies of induction have not been performed. Duloxetine is an inhibitor of the CYP1A2 isoform in in vitrostudies, and in two clinical studies the average (90% confidence interval) increase in theophylline AUC was 7% (1% to 15%) and 20% (13% to 27%) when co-administered with duloxetine (60 mg twice daily).

    7.9 Drugs Metabolized by CYP2D6

    Duloxetine is a moderate inhibitor of CYP2D6. When duloxetine was administered (at a dose of 60 mg twice daily) in conjunction with a single 50 mg dose of desipramine, a CYP2D6 substrate, the AUC of desipramine increased 3-fold [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12)] .

    7.10 Drugs Metabolized by CYP2C9

    Results of in vitrostudies demonstrate that duloxetine does not inhibit activity. In a clinical study, the pharmacokinetics of S-warfarin, a CYP2C9 substrate, were not significantly affected by duloxetine [see Drug Interactions ( 7.4)] .

    7.11 Drugs Metabolized by CYP3A

    Results of in vitrostudies demonstrate that duloxetine does not inhibit or induce CYP3A activity. Therefore, an increase or decrease in the metabolism of CYP3A substrates (e.g., oral contraceptives and other steroidal agents) resulting from induction or inhibition is not anticipated, although clinical studies have not been performed.

    7.12 Drugs Metabolized by CYP2C19

    Results of in vitrostudies demonstrate that duloxetine does not inhibit CYP2C19 activity at therapeutic concentrations. Inhibition of the metabolism of CYP2C19 substrates is therefore not anticipated, although clinical studies have not been performed.

    7.13 Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs)

    [See Dosage and Administration ( 2.9, 2.10), Contraindications ( 4), and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4)] .

    7.14 Other Serotonergic Drugs

    The concomitant use of serotonergic drugs (including other SNRIs, SSRIs, triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, opioids, lithium, buspirone, amphetamines, tryptophan, and St. John’s Wort) with duloxetine increases the risk of serotonin syndrome. Monitor patients for signs and symptoms of serotonin syndrome, particularly during treatment initiation and dosage increases. If serotonin syndrome occurs, consider discontinuation of duloxetine and/or concomitant serotonergic drugs [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4)].

    7.15 Alcohol

    When duloxetine and ethanol were administered several hours apart so that peak concentrations of each would coincide, duloxetine did not increase the impairment of mental and motor skills caused by alcohol.

    In the duloxetine clinical trials database, three duloxetine-treated patients had liver injury as manifested by ALT and total bilirubin elevations, with evidence of obstruction. Substantial intercurrent ethanol use was present in each of these cases, and this may have contributed to the abnormalities seen [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2, 5.12)] .

    7.16 CNS Drugs

    [See Warnings and Precautions ( 5.12)] .

    7.17 Drugs Highly Bound to Plasma Protein

    Because duloxetine is highly bound to plasma protein, administration of duloxetine to a patient taking another drug that is highly protein bound may cause increased free concentrations of the other drug, potentially resulting in adverse reactions. However, co-administration of duloxetine (60 mg or 120 mg) with warfarin (2 mg to 9 mg), a highly protein-bound drug, did not result in significant changes in INR and in the pharmacokinetics of either total S-or total R-warfarin (protein bound plus free drug) [see Drug Interactions ( 7.4)] .

  • 8 USE IN SPECIFIC POPULATIONS

    8.1 Pregnancy

    Pregnancy Exposure Registry

    There is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors the pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to antidepressants, including duloxetine, during pregnancy. Healthcare providers are encouraged to register patients by contacting the National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants at 1-866-961-2388 or online at https://womensmentalhealth.org/research/pregnancyregistry/.

    Risk Summary

    Data from a postmarketing retrospective cohort study indicate that use of duloxetine in the month before delivery may be associated with an increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage. Data from published literature and from a postmarketing retrospective cohort study have not identified a clear drug-associated risk of major birth defects or other adverse developmental outcomes (see Data). There are risks associated with untreated depression and fibromyalgia in pregnancy, and with exposure to SNRIs and SSRIs, including duloxetine, during pregnancy (see Clinical Considerations).

    In rats and rabbits treated with duloxetine during the period of organogenesis, fetal weights were decreased but there was no evidence of developmental effects at doses up to 3 times and 6 times, respectively, the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 120 mg/day given to adolescents on a mg/m 2basis. When duloxetine was administered orally to pregnant rats throughout gestation and lactation, pup weights at birth and pup survival to 1 day postpartum were decreased at a dose 2 times the MRHD given to adolescents on a mg/m 2basis. At this dose, pup behaviors consistent with increased reactivity, such as increased startle response to noise and decreased habituation of locomotor activity were observed. Post-weaning growth was not adversely affected.

    The estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage for the indicated population is unknown. All pregnancies have a background risk of birth defect, loss, or other adverse outcomes. In the U.S. general population, the estimated background risk of major birth defects and miscarriage in clinically recognized pregnancies is 2% to 4% and 15% to 20%, respectively.

    Clinical Considerations

    Disease-associated Maternal and/or Embryo/Fetal Risk

    Women who discontinue antidepressants during pregnancy are more likely to experience a relapse of major depression than women who continue antidepressants. This finding is from a prospective, longitudinal study that followed 201 pregnant women with a history of major depressive disorder who were euthymic and taking antidepressants at the beginning of pregnancy. Consider the risk of untreated depression when discontinuing or changing treatment with antidepressant medication during pregnancy and postpartum.

    Pregnant women with fibromyalgia are at increased risk for adverse maternal and infant outcomes including preterm premature rupture of membranes, preterm birth, small for gestational age, intrauterine growth restriction, placental disruption, and venous thrombosis. It is not known if these adverse maternal and fetal outcomes are a direct result of fibromyalgia or other comorbid factors.

    Maternal Adverse Reactions

    Use of duloxetine in the month before delivery may be associated with an increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5)].

    Fetal/Neonatal Adverse Reaction

    Neonates exposed to duloxetine and other SNRIs or SSRIs late in the third trimester have developed complications requiring prolonged hospitalization, respiratory support, and tube feeding. Such complications can arise immediately upon delivery. Reported clinical findings have included respiratory distress, cyanosis, apnea, seizures, temperature instability, feeding difficulty, vomiting, hypoglycemia, hypotonia, hypertonia, hyperreflexia, tremor, jitteriness, irritability, and constant crying. These findings are consistent with either a direct toxic effect of the SNRIs or SSRIs, or possibly, a drug discontinuation syndrome. It should be noted that, in some cases, the clinical picture is consistent with serotonin syndrome [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4)] .

    Data

    Human Data

    Data from a postmarketing retrospective claims-based cohort study found an increased risk for postpartum hemorrhage among 955 pregnant women exposed to duloxetine in the last month of pregnancy compared to 4,128,460 unexposed pregnant women (adjusted relative risk: 1.53; 95% CI: 1.08 to 2.18). The same study did not find a clinically meaningful increase in the risk for major birth defects in the comparison of 2532 women exposed to duloxetine in the first trimester of pregnancy to 1,284,827 unexposed women after adjusting for several confounders. Methodologic limitations include possible residual confounding, misclassification of exposure and outcomes, lack of direct measures of disease severity, and lack of information about alcohol use, nutrition, and over-the-counter medication exposures.

    Animal Data

    In animal reproduction studies, duloxetine has been shown to have adverse effects on embryo/fetal and postnatal development.

    When duloxetine was administered orally to pregnant rats and rabbits during the period of organogenesis, there was no evidence of malformations or developmental variations at doses up to 45 mg/kg/day [3 times and 6 times, respectively, the MRHD of 120 mg/day given to adolescents on a mg/m 2basis]. However, fetal weights were decreased at this dose, with a no-effect dose of 10 mg/kg/day (approximately equal to the MRHD in rats and 2 times the MRHD in rabbits).

    When duloxetine was administered orally to pregnant rats throughout gestation and lactation, the survival of pups to 1 day postpartum and pup body weights at birth and during the lactation period were decreased at a dose of 30 mg/kg/day (2 times the MRHD given to adolescents on a mg/m 2basis); the no-effect dose was 10 mg/kg/day. Furthermore, behaviors consistent with increased reactivity, such as increased startle response to noise and decreased habituation of locomotor activity, were observed in pups following maternal exposure to 30 mg/kg/day. Post-weaning growth and reproductive performance of the progeny were not affected adversely by maternal duloxetine treatment.

    8.2 Lactation

    Risk Summary

    Data from published literature report the presence of duloxetine in human milk (see Data). There are reports of sedation, poor feeding, and poor weight gain in infants exposed to duloxetine through breast milk (see Clinical Considerations). There are no data on the effect of duloxetine on milk production.

    The developmental and health benefits of breastfeeding should be considered along with the mother’s clinical need for duloxetine and any potential adverse effects on the breastfed child from duloxetine or from the underlying maternal condition.

    Clinical Considerations

    Infants exposed to duloxetine should be monitored for sedation, poor feeding and poor weight gain.

    Data

    Disposition of duloxetine was studied in 6 lactating women who were at least 12 weeks postpartum and had elected to wean their infants. The women were given 40 mg of duloxetine twice daily for 3.5 days. The peak concentration measured in breast milk occurred at a median of 3 hours after the dose. The amount of duloxetine in breast milk was approximately 7 mcg/day while on that dose; the estimated daily infant dose was approximately 2 mcg/kg/day, which is less than 1% of the maternal dose. The presence of duloxetine metabolites in breast milk was not examined.

    8.4 Pediatric Use

    The safety and effectiveness of duloxetine have been established for treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in patients 7 years to 17 years of age and for treatment of juvenile fibromyalgia syndrome in patients 13 years to 17 years of age. The safety and effectiveness of duloxetine have not been established in pediatric patients with major depressive disorder (MDD), diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain, or chronic musculoskeletal pain.

    Antidepressants increased the risk of suicidal thoughts and behavior in pediatric patients. Monitor all pediatric patients being treated with antidepressants for clinical worsening and emergence of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, especially during the initial few months of treatment, or at times of dosage changes [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1)] . Perform regular monitoring of weight and growth in pediatric patients treated with duloxetine [see Adverse Reactions ( 6.1)].

    Generalized Anxiety Disorder

    Use of duloxetine for the treatment of GAD in patients 7 years to 17 years of age is supported by one 10-week, placebo-controlled trial (GAD-6). The study included 272 pediatric patients with GAD of which 47% were 7 years to 11 years of age (53% were 12 years to 17 years of age). Duloxetine demonstrated superiority over placebo as measured by greater improvement in the Pediatric Anxiety Rating Scale (PARS) for GAD severity score [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3)].

    The safety and effectiveness of duloxetine for the treatment of GAD in pediatric patients less than 7 years of age have not been established.

    Fibromyalgia
    Use of duloxetine for treatment of fibromyalgia in patients 13 years to 17 years of age is supported by a 13-week placebo-controlled trial in 184 patients with juvenile fibromyalgia syndrome (Study FM-4). Duloxetine showed improvement over placebo on the primary endpoint, change from baseline to end-of-treatment on the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) – Modified Short Form: Adolescent Version 24-hour average pain severity rating [see Clinical Studies (14.5)].

    The safety and effectiveness of duloxetine for the treatment of fibromyalgia in patients less than 13 years of age have not been established.

    Major Depressive Disorder

    The safety and effectiveness of duloxetine have not been established in pediatric patients for the treatment of MDD. Efficacy of duloxetine was not demonstrated in two 10-week, placebo-controlled trials with 800 pediatric patients aged 7 years to 17 years old with MDD (MDD-6 and MDD-7). Neither duloxetine nor an active control (approved for treatment of pediatric MDD) was superior to placebo.

    The most frequently observed adverse reactions in the MDD pediatric clinical trials included nausea, headache, decreased weight, and abdominal pain. Decreased appetite and weight loss have been observed in association with the use of SSRIs and SNRIs.

    Juvenile Animal Toxicology Data

    Duloxetine administration to young rats from post-natal day 21 (weaning) through post-natal day 90 (adult) resulted in decreased body weights that persisted into adulthood, but recovered when drug treatment was discontinued; slightly delayed (~1.5 days) sexual maturation in females, without any effect on fertility; and a delay in learning a complex task in adulthood, which was not observed after drug treatment was discontinued. These effects were observed at the high dose of 45 mg/kg/day (2 times the MRHD, for a child); the no-effect-level was 20 mg/kg/day (≈1 times the MRHD, for a child).

    8.5 Geriatric Use

    Geriatric Exposure in Premarketing Clinical Trials of Duloxetine

    • Of the 2,418 patients in MDD trials, 6% (143) were 65 years of age or over.
    • Of the 1,041 patients in CLBP trials, 21% (221) were 65 years of age or over.
    • Of the 487 patients in OA trials, 41% (197) were 65 years of age or over.
    • Of the 1,074 patients in the DPNP trials, 33% (357) were 65 years of age or over.
    • Of the 1,761 patients in FM trials, 8% (140) were 65 years of age or over.

    In the MDD, GAD, DPNP, FM, OA, and CLBP studies, no overall differences in safety or effectiveness were generally observed between these patients and younger adult patients, and other reported clinical experience has not identified differences in responses between these geriatric and younger adult patients, but greater sensitivity of some older patients cannot be ruled out.

    SSRIs and SNRIs, including duloxetine have been associated with clinically significant hyponatremia in geriatric patients, who may be at greater risk for this adverse reaction [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.13)] .

    In an analysis of data from all placebo-controlled-trials, duloxetine -treated patients reported a higher rate of falls compared to placebo-treated patients. The increased risk appears to be proportional to a patient’s underlying risk for falls. Underlying risk appears to increase steadily with age. As geriatric patients tend to have a higher prevalence of risk factors for falls such as medications, medical comorbidities and gait disturbances, the impact of increasing age by itself on falls during duloxetine treatment is unclear. Falls with serious consequences including bone fractures and hospitalizations have been reported with duloxetine use [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3) and Adverse Reactions ( 6.1)] .

    The pharmacokinetics of duloxetine after a single dose of 40 mg were compared in healthy elderly females (65 years to 77 years) and healthy middle-age females (32 years to 50 years). There was no difference in the C max, but the AUC of duloxetine was somewhat (about 25%) higher and the half-life about 4 hours longer in the elderly females. Population pharmacokinetic analyses suggest that the typical values for clearance decrease by approximately 1% for each year of age between 25 years to 75 years of age; but age as a predictive factor only accounts for a small percentage of between-patient variability. Dosage adjustment based on the age of the adult patient is not necessary.

    8.6 Gender

    Duloxetine's half-life is similar in men and women. Dosage adjustment based on gender is not necessary.

    8.7 Smoking Status

    Duloxetine bioavailability (AUC) appears to be reduced by about one-third in smokers. Dosage modifications are not recommended for smokers.

    8.8 Race

    No specific pharmacokinetic study was conducted to investigate the effects of race.

    8.9 Hepatic Impairment

    Patients with clinically evident hepatic impairment have decreased duloxetine metabolism and elimination. After a single 20 mg dose of duloxetine, 6 cirrhotic patients with moderate liver impairment (Child-Pugh Class B) had a mean plasma duloxetine clearance about 15% that of age- and gender-matched healthy subjects, with a 5-fold increase in mean exposure (AUC). Although C maxwas similar to normals in the cirrhotic patients, the half-life was about 3 times longer [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.14)] .

    8.10 Severe Renal Impairment

    Limited data are available on the effects of duloxetine in patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). After a single 60 mg dose of duloxetine, C maxand AUC values were approximately 100% greater in patients with ESRD receiving chronic intermittent hemodialysis than in subjects with normal renal function. The elimination half-life, however, was similar in both groups. The AUCs of the major circulating metabolites, 4-hydroxy duloxetine glucuronide and 5-hydroxy, 6-methoxy duloxetine sulfate, largely excreted in urine, were approximately 7- to 9-fold higher and would be expected to increase further with multiple dosing. Population PK analyses suggest that mild to moderate degrees of renal impairment (estimated CrCl 30 to 80 mL/min) have no significant effect on duloxetine apparent clearance [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.7) and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.14)] .

  • 9 DRUG ABUSE AND DEPENDENCE

    9.2 Abuse

    In animal studies, duloxetine did not demonstrate barbiturate-like (depressant) abuse potential.

    While duloxetine has not been systematically studied in humans for its potential for abuse, there was no indication of drug-seeking behavior in the clinical trials. However, it is not possible to predict on the basis of premarketing experience the extent to which a CNS active drug will be misused, diverted, and/or abused once marketed. Consequently, physicians should carefully evaluate patients for a history of drug abuse and follow such patients closely, observing them for signs of misuse or abuse of duloxetine (e.g., development of tolerance, incrementation of dose, drug-seeking behavior).

    9.3 Dependence

    In drug dependence studies, duloxetine did not demonstrate dependence-producing potential in rats.

  • 10 OVERDOSAGE

    10.1 Signs and Symptoms

    In postmarketing experience, fatal outcomes have been reported for acute duloxetine overdoses, primarily with mixed overdoses, but also with duloxetine only, including 1000 mg of duloxetine (approximately 8.3 times the maximum recommended dosage). Signs and symptoms of overdose (duloxetine alone or with mixed drugs) included somnolence, coma, serotonin syndrome, seizures, syncope, tachycardia, hypotension, hypertension, and vomiting.

    10.2 Management of Overdose

    There is no specific antidote to a duloxetine overdosage, but if serotonin syndrome ensues, specific treatment (such as with cyproheptadine and/or temperature control) may be considered.

    In case of acute overdose with duloxetine, treatment should consist of those general measures employed in the management of overdose with any drug, such as assuring an adequate airway, oxygenation, and ventilation and monitoring cardiac rhythm and vital signs. Gastric lavage with a large-bore orogastric tube with appropriate airway protection, if needed, may be indicated if performed soon after ingestion or in symptomatic patients. Induction of emesis is not recommended.

    Activated charcoal may be useful in limiting absorption of duloxetine from the gastrointestinal tract. Administration of activated charcoal has been shown to decrease duloxetine AUC and C maxby an average of one-third, although some patients had a limited effect of activated charcoal. Due to the large volume of distribution of duloxetine, forced diuresis, dialysis, hemoperfusion, and exchange transfusion are unlikely to be beneficial.

    In managing overdose, the possibility of multiple drug involvement should be considered. A specific caution involves patients who overdose with duloxetine and tricyclic antidepressants. In such a case, decreased clearance of the parent tricyclic and/or its active metabolite may increase the possibility of clinically significant sequelae and extend the time needed for close medical observation [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4) and Drug Interactions ( 7)] .

    Consider contacting a poison control center (1-800-222-1222 or www.poison.org) for additional information on the treatment of overdosage.

  • 11 DESCRIPTION

    Duloxetine hydrochloride USP is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) for oral administration. Its chemical designation is (+)-( S)- N-methyl-γ-(1-naphthyloxy)-2-thiophenepropylamine hydrochloride. The molecular formula is C 18H 19NOSHCl, which corresponds to a molecular weight of 333.88. The structural formula is:

    Duloxetine hydrochloride USP is a white to brownish-white solid, which is slightly soluble in water.

    Each capsule contains enteric-coated pellets of 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg or 60 mg of duloxetine hydrochloride USP (equivalent to 22.4 mg, 33.7 mg, 44.9 mg or 67.3 mg of duloxetine, respectively). These enteric-coated pellets are designed to prevent degradation of the drug in the acidic environment of the stomach. Inactive ingredients include sugar spheres, hypromellose, sucrose, talc, methacrylic acid copolymer dispersion, and triethyl citrate.

    The capsule shell contains gelatin, FD&C Red No. 3 (40 mg), FD&C Blue No. 1 (40 mg), FD&C Blue No. 2 (20 mg, 30 mg, 60 mg), titanium dioxide, and sodium lauryl sulfate.

    For 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg (body & cap) and 60 mg (body only) strengths, imprinting black ink contains shellac, dehydrated alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, butyl alcohol, propylene glycol, strong ammonia solution, black iron oxide, potassium hydroxide and purified water.

    For 60 mg (cap only) strength, imprinting white ink contains shellac, dehydrated alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, butyl alcohol, propylene glycol, strong ammonia solution, purified water, potassium hydroxide, and titanium dioxide.

    USP Assay & Organic Impurities test pending.

  • 12 CLINICAL PHARMACOLOGY

    12.1 Mechanism of Action

    Although the exact mechanisms of the antidepressant, central pain inhibitory and anxiolytic actions of duloxetine in humans are unknown, these actions are believed to be related to its potentiation of serotonergic and noradrenergic activity in the CNS.

    12.2 Pharmacodynamics

    Preclinical studies have shown that duloxetine is a potent inhibitor of neuronal serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake and a less potent inhibitor of dopamine reuptake. Duloxetine has no significant affinity for dopaminergic, adrenergic, cholinergic, histaminergic, opioid, glutamate, and GABA receptors in vitro. Duloxetine does not inhibit monoamine oxidase (MAO).

    Duloxetine is in a class of drugs known to affect urethral resistance. [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.15)] .

    Cardiac Electrophysiology

     The effect of duloxetine 160 mg and 200 mg administered twice daily (2.7 times and 3.3 times the maximum recommended dosage, respectively) to steady state was evaluated in a randomized, double-blinded, two-way crossover study in 117 healthy female adult subjects. No QT interval prolongation was detected. Duloxetine appears to be associated with concentration-dependent but not clinically meaningful QT shortening.

    12.3 Pharmacokinetics

    Duloxetine has an elimination half-life of about 12 hours (range 8 hours to 17 hours) and its pharmacokinetics are dose proportional over the therapeutic range. Steady-state plasma concentrations are typically achieved after 3 days of dosing. Elimination of duloxetine is mainly through hepatic metabolism involving two P450 isozymes, CYP1A2 and CYP2D6.

    Absorption

    After oral duloxetine administration, duloxetine hydrochloride is well absorbed. There is a median 2 hour lag until absorption begins (T lag), with maximal plasma concentrations (C max) of duloxetine occurring 6 hours post dose. There is a 3 hour delay in absorption and a one-third increase in apparent clearance of duloxetine after an evening dose as compared to a morning dose.

    Effect of Food:Food does not affect the C maxof duloxetine, but delays the time to reach peak concentration from 6 hours to 10 hours and it marginally decreases the extent of absorption (AUC) by about 10%.

    Distribution

    The apparent volume of distribution averages about 1640 L. Duloxetine is highly bound (greater than 90%) to proteins in human plasma, binding primarily to albumin and α 1-acid glycoprotein. The interaction between duloxetine and other highly protein bound drugs has not been fully evaluated. Plasma protein binding of duloxetine is not affected by renal or hepatic impairment.

    Elimination

    Metabolism

    Biotransformation and disposition of duloxetine in humans have been determined following oral administration of 14C-labeled duloxetine. Duloxetine comprises about 3% of the total radiolabeled material in the plasma, indicating that it undergoes extensive metabolism to numerous metabolites. The major biotransformation pathways for duloxetine involve oxidation of the naphthyl ring followed by conjugation and further oxidation. Both CYP1A2 and CYP2D6 catalyze the oxidation of the naphthyl ring in vitro. Metabolites found in plasma include 4-hydroxy duloxetine glucuronide and 5-hydroxy, 6-methoxy duloxetine sulfate.

    Excretion

    Many additional metabolites have been identified in urine, some representing only minor pathways of elimination. Only trace (less than 1% of the dose) amounts of unchanged duloxetine are present in the urine. Most (about 70%) of the duloxetine dose appears in the urine as metabolites of duloxetine; about 20% is excreted in the feces. Duloxetine undergoes extensive metabolism, but the major circulating metabolites have not been shown to contribute significantly to the pharmacologic activity of duloxetine.

    Specific Populations

    Pediatric Patients

     Duloxetine steady-state plasma concentration was comparable in pediatric patients 7 years to 17 years of age and adult patients.  The average steady-state duloxetine concentration was approximately 30% lower in this pediatric population relative to adult patients. The model-predicted duloxetine steady state plasma concentrations in pediatric patients 7 years to 17 years of age were mostly within the concentration range observed in adult patients and did not exceed the concentration range in adults.

  • 13 NONCLINICAL TOXICOLOGY

    13.1 Carcinogenesis, Mutagenesis, Impairment of Fertility

    Carcinogenesis

    Duloxetine was administered in the diet to mice and rats for 2 years.

    In female mice receiving duloxetine at 140 mg/kg/day (3 times the maximum recommended human dose (MRHD) of 120 mg/day given to children on a mg/m 2basis), there was an increased incidence of hepatocellular adenomas and carcinomas. The no-effect dose was 50 mg/kg/day (1 time the MRHD given to children). Tumor incidence was not increased in male mice receiving duloxetine at doses up to 100 mg/kg/day (2 times the MRHD given to children).

    In rats, dietary doses of duloxetine up to 27 mg/kg/day in females (1 time the MRHD given to children) and up to 36 mg/kg/day in males (1.4 times the MRHD given to children) did not increase the incidence of tumors.

    Mutagenesis

    Duloxetine was not mutagenic in the in vitrobacterial reverse mutation assay (Ames test) and was not clastogenic in an in vivochromosomal aberration test in mouse bone marrow cells. Additionally, duloxetine was not genotoxic in an in vitromammalian forward gene mutation assay in mouse lymphoma cells or in an in vitrounscheduled DNA synthesis (UDS) assay in primary rat hepatocytes, and did not induce sister chromatid exchange in Chinese hamster bone marrow in vivo.

    Impairment of Fertility

    Duloxetine administered orally to either male or female rats prior to and throughout mating at doses up to 45 mg/kg/day (3 times the MRHD given to adolescents on a mg/m 2basis) did not alter mating or fertility.

  • 14 CLINICAL STUDIES

    14.1 Overview of the Clinical Trials

    The efficacy of duloxetine has been established in the following populations in adequate and well-controlled trials:

    • Major Depressive Disorder (MDD):4 short-term (Studies MDD-1, MDD-2, MDD-3, and MDD-4) and 1 maintenance trial (Study MDD-5) in adults [see Clinical Studies ( 14.2)] .
    • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD):3 short-term trials in adults (Studies GAD-1, GAD-2, and GAD-3), 1 maintenance trial in adults (Study GAD-4), 1 short-term trial in geriatric patients (Study GAD-5), and 1 short-term trial in pediatric patients 7 years to 17 years of age (Study GAD-6) [see Clinical Studies ( 14.3)] .
    • Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain (DPNP):Two 12-week trials in adults (Studies DPNP-1 and DPNP-2) [see Clinical Studies ( 14.4)] .
    • Fibromyalgia (FM):Two trials in adults (one of 3 months duration and one of 6 months duration) (Studies FM-1 and FM-2) and one 13-week trial in pediatric patients 13 years to 17 years of age (Study FM-4) [see Clinical Studies ( 14.5)] .
    • Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain:Two 12- to 13-week trials in adult patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP) (Studies CLBP-1 and CLBP-3) and one 13-week trial in adult patients with chronic pain due to osteoarthritis (OA) (Study OA-1) [see Clinical Studies ( 14.6)].

    Additionally, a summary of the following trials that did not demonstrate efficacy are presented below: Study FM-3 (a 16-week trial in adult patients with fibromyalgia), Study CLBP-2 (a 13-week trial in adult patients with CLBP), and Study OA-2 (a 13-week trial in adult patients with chronic pain due to OA).

    14.2 Major Depressive Disorder in Adults

    The efficacy of duloxetine as a treatment for MDD in adults was established in 4 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, fixed-dose trials in adult outpatients (18 years to 83 years) meeting DSM-IV criteria for MDD:

    • In Studies MDD-1 and MDD-2, patients were randomized to duloxetine 60 mg once daily (N=123 and N=128, respectively) or placebo (N=122 and N=139, respectively) for 9 weeks
    • In Study MDD-3, patients were randomized to duloxetine 20 mg or 40 mg twice daily (N=86 and N=91, respectively) or placebo (N=89) for 8 weeks
    • In Study MDD-4, patients were randomized to duloxetine 40 mg or 60 mg twice daily (N=95 and N=93, respectively) or placebo (N=93) for 8 weeks.

    In all four trials, duloxetine demonstrated superiority over placebo as measured by improvement in the 17-item Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAMD-17) total score (see Table 8). There is no evidence that doses greater than 60 mg/day confer additional benefits.

    In all of these clinical trials, analyses of the relationship between treatment outcome and age, gender, and race did not suggest any differential responsiveness on the basis of these patient characteristics.

    Table 8: Summary of the Primary Efficacy Results for Adult Trials in MDD

    Study Number

    Treatment Group

    Primary Efficacy Measure: HAMD-17

    Mean Baseline Score (SD)

    LS Mean Change from Baseline (SE)

    Placebo-Subtracted Difference a
    (95% CI)

    Study
    MDD-1

    Duloxetine
    (60 mg/day) b

    21.5 (4.10)

    -10.9 (0.70)

    -4.9 (-6.8, -2.9)

    Placebo

    21.1 (3.71)

    -6.1 (0.69)

    --

    Study
    MDD-2

    Duloxetine
    (60 mg/day) b

    20.3 (3.32)

    -10.5 (0.71)

    -2.2 (-4.0, -0.3)

    Placebo

    20.5 (3.42)

    -8.3 (0.67)

    --

    Study
    MDD-3

    Duloxetine
    (20 mg BID) b

    18.6 (5.85)

    -7.4 (0.80)

    -2.4 (-4.7, -0.2)

    Duloxetine
    (40 mg BID) b

    18.1 (4.52)

    -8.6 (0.81)

    -3.6 (-5.9, -1.4)

    Placebo

    17.2 (5.11)

    -5.0 (0.81)

    --

    Study
    MDD-4

    Duloxetine
    (40 mg BID) b

    19.9 (3.54)

    -11.0 (0.49)

    -2.2 (-3.6, -0.9)

    Duloxetine
    (60 mg BID) b

    20.2 (3.41)

    -12.1 (0.49)

    -3.3 (-4.7, -1.9)

    Placebo

    19.9 (3.58)

    -8.8 (0.50)

    --

    SD: standard deviation; SE: standard error; LS Mean: least-squares mean; CI: confidence interval, not adjusted for multiplicity in trials where multiple dose groups were included.

    aDifference (drug minus placebo) in least-squares mean change from baseline.

    bDoses statistically significantly superior to placebo.

    In Study MDD-5, 533 adult patients meeting DSM-IV criteria for MDD received duloxetine 60 mg once daily during an initial 12-week open-label treatment phase. Two hundred and seventy-eight patients who responded to open label treatment [defined as meeting the following criteria at weeks 10 and 12: a HAMD-17 total score less than or equal to 9, Clinical Global Impressions of Severity (CGI-S) less than or equal to 2, and not meeting the DSM-IV criteria for MDD] were randomly assigned to continuation of duloxetine at the same dosage (N=136) or to placebo (N=142) for 6 months.

    In Study MDD-5, patients on duloxetine experienced a statistically significantly longer time to relapse of depression than did patients on placebo (see Figure 1). Relapse was defined as an increase in the CGI-S score of greater than or equal to 2 points compared with that obtained at week 12, as well as meeting the DSM-IV criteria for MDD at 2 consecutive visits at least 2 weeks apart, where the 2-week temporal criterion had to be satisfied at only the second visit.

    Figure 1: Cumulative Proportion aof Adult Patients with MDD Relapse (Study MDD-5)

    aKaplan-Meier estimator method.

    14.3 Generalized Anxiety Disorder

    GAD Trials in Adults (Including Geriatric Patients)

    The efficacy of duloxetine in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) was established in 1 fixed-dose randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial and 2 flexible-dose randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in adult outpatients between 18 years and 83 years of age meeting the DSM-IV criteria for GAD (Studies GAD-1, GAD-2, and GAD-3, respectively).

    In Studies GAD-1 and GAD-2, the starting dose was 60 mg once daily (down titration to 30 mg once daily was allowed for tolerability reasons; the dosage could be increased to 60 mg once daily). Fifteen percent of patients were down titrated. Study GAD-3 had a starting dose of 30 mg once daily for 1 week before increasing it to 60 mg once daily.

    Studies GAD-2 and GAD-3 involved dose titration with duloxetine doses ranging from 60 mg once daily to 120 mg once daily (N=168 and N=162) compared to placebo (N=159 and N=161) over a 10-week treatment period. The mean dosage for completers at endpoint in these trials was 104.8 mg/day. Study GAD-1 evaluated duloxetine dosages of 60 mg once daily (N=168) and 120 mg once daily (N=170) compared to placebo (N=175) over a 9-week treatment period. While a 120 mg/day dose was shown to be effective, there is no evidence that doses greater than 60 mg/day confer additional benefit.

    In all 3 trials, duloxetine demonstrated superiority over placebo as measured by greater improvement in the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAM-A) total score (see Table 8) and by the Sheehan Disability Scale (SDS) global functional impairment score. The SDS is a composite measurement of the extent emotional symptoms disrupt patient functioning in 3 life domains: work/school, social life/leisure activities, and family life/home responsibilities.

    In Study GAD-4, 887 patients meeting DSM-IV-TR criteria for GAD received duloxetine 60 mg to 120 mg once daily during an initial 26-week open-label treatment phase. Four hundred and twenty-nine patients who responded to open-label treatment [defined as meeting the following criteria at weeks 24 and 26: a decrease from baseline HAM-A total score by at least 50% to a score no higher than 11, and a Clinical Global Impressions of Improvement (CGI-Improvement) score of 1 or 2] were randomly assigned to continuation of duloxetine at the same dosage (N=216) or to placebo (N=213) and were observed for relapse. Of the patients randomized, 73% had been in a responder status for at least 10 weeks. Relapse was defined as an increase in CGI-Severity score at least 2 points to a score greater than or equal to4 and a MINI (Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview) diagnosis of GAD (excluding duration), or discontinuation due to lack of efficacy. Patients taking duloxetine experienced a statistically significantly longer time to relapse of GAD than did patients taking placebo (see Figure 2).

    Subgroup analyses did not indicate that there were any differences in treatment outcomes as a function of age or gender.

    GAD Trial in Geriatric Patients

    The efficacy of duloxetine in the treatment of patients greater than or equal to 65 years of age with GAD was established in one 10-week flexible-dose, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in adults greater than or equal to 65 years of age meeting the DSM-IV criteria for GAD (Study GAD-5). In Study GAD-5, the starting dose was 30 mg once daily for 2 weeks before further dose increases in 30 mg increments at treatment weeks 2, 4, and 7 up to 120 mg once daily were allowed based on investigator judgment of clinical response and tolerability. The mean dosage for patients completing the 10-week acute treatment phase was 51 mg. Patients treated with duloxetine (N=151) demonstrated significantly greater improvement compared with placebo (N=140) on mean change from baseline to endpoint as measured by the HAM-A total score (see Table 8).

    GAD Trial in Pediatric Patients 7 Years to 17 Years Old

    The efficacy of duloxetine in the treatment of pediatric patients 7 years to 17 years of age with GAD was established in 1 flexible-dose randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial in pediatric outpatients with GAD (based on DSM-IV criteria) (Study GAD-6).

    In Study GAD-6, the starting dosage was 30 mg once daily for 2 weeks. Further dosage increases in 30 mg increments up to 120 mg once daily were allowed based on investigator judgment of clinical response and tolerability. The mean dosage for patients completing the 10-week treatment phase was 57.6 mg/day. In this study, duloxetine (N=135) demonstrated superiority over placebo (N=137) from baseline to endpoint as measured by greater improvement in the Pediatric Anxiety Rating Scale (PARS) for GAD severity score (see Table 9).

    Table 9: Summary of the Primary Efficacy Results for GAD Trials

    Study Number
    (population)
    (measurement)

    Treatment Group

    Primary Efficacy Measure

    Mean Baseline Score (SD)

    LS Mean Change from Baseline (SE)

    Placebo-Subtracted Difference a
    (95% CI)

    Study
    GAD-1 (Adult)
    (HAM-A)

    Duloxetine
    (60 mg/day) b

    25.1 (7.18)

    -12.8 (0.68)

    -4.4 (-6.2, -2.5)

    Duloxetine
    (120 mg/day) b

    25.1 (7.24)

    -12.5 (0.67)

    -4.1 (-5.9, -2.3)

    Placebo

    25.8 (7.66)

    -8.4 (0.67)

    --

    Study GAD-2
    (Adult)
    (HAM-A)

    Duloxetine
    (60-120 mg/day) b

    22.5 (7.44)

    -8.1 (0.70)

    -2.2 (-4.2, -0.3)

    Placebo

    23.5 (7.91)

    -5.9 (0.70)

    --

    Study GAD-3
    (Adult)
    (HAM-A)

    Duloxetine
    (60-120 mg/day) b

    25.8 (5.66)

    -11.8 (0.69)

    -2.6 (-4.5, -0.7)

    Placebo

    25.0 (5.82)

    -9.2 (0.67)

    --

    Study GAD-5
    (Geriatric) (HAM-A)

    Duloxetine
    (60-120 mg/day) b

    24.6 (6.21)

    -15.9 (0.63)

    -4.2 (-5.9, -2.5)

    Placebo

    24.5 (7.05)

    -11.7 (0.67)

    --

    Study GAD-6 (Pediatric) (PARS for GAD)

    Duloxetine
    (30-120 mg/day) b

    17.5 (1.98)

    -9.7 (0.50)

    -2.7 (-4.0, -1.3)

    Placebo

    17.4 (2.24)

    -7.1 (0.50)

    --

    SD: standard deviation; SE: standard error; LS Mean: least-squares mean; CI: confidence interval, not adjusted for multiplicity in trials where multiple dose groups were included.

    aDifference (drug minus placebo) in least squares mean change from baseline.

    bDose statistically significantly superior to placebo.

    Figure 2: Cumulative Proportion aof Adult Patients with GAD Relapse (Study GAD-4)

    aKaplan-Meier estimator method.

    14.4 Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain in Adults

    The efficacy of duloxetine for the management of neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy in adults was established in 2 randomized, 12-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled, fixed-dose trials in adult patients having diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP) for at least 6 months (Study DPNP-1 and Study DPNP-2). These trials enrolled a total of 791 patients of whom 592 (75%) completed the trials. Patients enrolled had Type I or II diabetes mellitus with a diagnosis of painful distal symmetrical sensorimotor polyneuropathy for at least 6 months. The patients had a baseline pain score of greater than or equal to4 on an 11-point scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst possible pain). Patients were permitted up to 4 grams of acetaminophen per day as needed for pain, in addition to duloxetine. Patients recorded their pain daily in a diary.

    Both trials compared duloxetine 60 mg once daily or 60 mg twice daily with placebo. Study DPNP-1 additionally compared duloxetine 20 mg with placebo. A total of 457 patients (342 duloxetine, 115 placebo) were enrolled in Study DPNP-1 and a total of 334 patients (226 duloxetine, 108 placebo) were enrolled in Study DPNP-2.

    Treatment with duloxetine 60 mg one or two times a day statistically significantly improved the endpoint mean pain scores from baseline and increased the proportion of patients with at least a 50% reduction in pain scores from baseline. For various degrees of improvement in pain from baseline to study endpoint, Figures 3 and 4 show the fraction of patients achieving that degree of improvement in Studies DPNP-1 and DPNP-2, respectively. The figures are cumulative, so that patients whose change from baseline is, for example, 50%, are also included at every level of improvement below 50%. Patients who did not complete the trial were assigned 0% improvement. Some patients experienced a decrease in pain as early as week 1, which persisted throughout the trial.

    Figure 3: Percentage of DPNP Adult Patients Achieving Various Levels of Pain Relief as Measured by 24-Hour Average Pain Severity (Study DPNP-1)

    Figure 4: Percentage of DPNP Adult Patients Achieving Various Levels of Pain Relief as Measured by 24-Hour Average Pain Severity (Study DPNP-2)

    14.5 Fibromyalgia

    Adult Trials in Fibromyalgia

    The efficacy of duloxetine for the management of fibromyalgia in adults was established in two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, fixed-dose trials in adult patients meeting the American College of Rheumatology criteria for fibromyalgia (a history of widespread pain for 3 months, and pain present at 11 or more of the 18 specific tender point sites). Study FM-1 was three months in duration and enrolled female patients only. Study FM-2 was six months in duration and enrolled male and female patients. Approximately 25% of participants had a comorbid diagnosis of MDD. Studies FM-1 and FM-2 enrolled a total of 874 patients of whom 541 (62%) completed the trials. A total of 354 patients (234 duloxetine, 120 placebo) were enrolled in Study FM-1 and a total of 520 patients (376 duloxetine, 144 placebo) were enrolled in Study FM-2 (5% male, 95% female). The patients had a baseline pain score of 6.5 on an 11-point scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worse possible pain).

    Studies FM-1 and FM-2 compared duloxetine 60 mg once daily or 120 mg daily (given in divided doses in Study FM-1 and as a single daily dose in Study FM-2) with placebo. Study FM-2 additionally compared duloxetine 20 mg with placebo during the initial three months of a six-month trial.

    Treatment with duloxetine 60 mg or 120 mg daily statistically significantly improved the endpoint mean pain scores from baseline and increased the proportion of patients with at least a 50% reduction in pain score from baseline. Pain reduction was observed in patients both with and without comorbid MDD. However, the degree of pain reduction may be greater in patients with comorbid MDD. For various degrees of improvement in pain from baseline to study endpoint, Figures 5 and 6 show the fraction of patients achieving that degree of improvement in Studies FM-1 and FM-2, respectively. The figures are cumulative so that patients whose change from baseline is, for example, 50%, are also included at every level of improvement below 50%. Patients who did not complete the trial were assigned 0% improvement. Some patients experienced a decrease in pain as early as week 1, which persisted throughout the trial. Improvement was also demonstrated on measures of function (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaires) and patient global impression of change (PGI). Neither trial demonstrated a benefit of 120 mg compared to 60 mg, and a higher dosage was associated with more adverse reactions and premature discontinuations of treatment.

    Figure 5: Percentage of Adult Fibromyalgia Patients Achieving Various Levels of Pain Relief at Study Endpoint as Measured by 24-Hour Average Pain Severity (Study FM-1)

    Figure 6: Percentage of Adult Fibromyalgia Patients Achieving Various Levels of Pain Relief at Study Endpoint as Measured by 24-Hour Average Pain Severity (Study FM-2)

    Additionally, the benefit of up-titration in non-responders to duloxetine delayed-release capsules at 60 mg/day was evaluated in a separate trial (Study FM-3). Adult patients were initially treated with duloxetine delayed-release capsules 60 mg once daily for eight weeks in open-label fashion. Subsequently, completers of this phase were randomized to double-blind treatment with duloxetine delayed-release capsules at either 60 mg once daily or 120 mg once daily. Responders were defined as patients who had at least a 30% reduction in pain score from baseline at the end of the 8-week treatment. Patients who were non-responders at 8 weeks were no more likely to meet response criteria at the end of 60 weeks of treatment if blindly titrated to duloxetine delayed-release capsules 120 mg as compared to those who were blindly continued on duloxetine delayed-release capsules 60 mg.

    Pediatric Trial in Fibromyalgia

    Duloxetine was studied in 184 pediatric patients aged 13 years to 17 years with juvenile fibromyalgia syndrome in a 13-week, placebo-controlled trial (Study FM-4). In Study FM-4, 149 (81%) patients completed the trial. Duloxetine (N=91) was initiated at a dosage of 30 mg once daily for one week and titrated to 60 mg once daily for 12 weeks, as tolerated. The mean dosage for patients completing the 12-week treatment phase was 49 mg/day. Duloxetine showed improvement over placebo on the primary endpoint [change from baseline to end-of treatment on the Brief Pain Inventory (BPI) – Modified Short Form: Adolescent Version 24-hour average pain severity rating] with a p-value of 0.052 from the prespecified primary analysis, and p-values ranging from 0.011 to 0.020 from sensitivity analyses which assigned baseline values to missing assessments of some patients who did not complete the trial for various reasons. The patients had a baseline BPI of 5.7. For various degrees of improvement in pain from baseline to study endpoint, Figure 7 shows the fraction of patients achieving that degree of improvement in Study FM-4.

    Figure 7: Percentage of Pediatric Patients Aged 13 Years to 17 Years Old with Juvenile Fibromyalgia Syndrome Achieving Various Levels of Pain Relief at Week 12 (Study FM-4) a

    aPain relief Measured by Brief Pain Inventory – Modified Short Form: Adolescent Version Average Pain Score.

    bDuloxetine -treated patients received 30 mg once daily for 1 week and subsequently titrated to 60 mg once daily for 12 weeks, as tolerated.

    14.6 Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain in Adults

    Duloxetine delayed-release capsules are indicated for the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal pain in adults. This has been established in trials in adult patients with chronic low back pain and chronic pain due to osteoarthritis.

    Trials in Chronic Low Back Pain in Adults

    The efficacy of duloxetine delayed-release capsules in chronic low back pain (CLBP) in adults was assessed in two double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trials of 13-weeks duration (Studies CLBP-1 and CLBP-2), and one of 12-weeks duration (CLBP-3). Studies CLBP-1 and CLBP-3 demonstrated efficacy of duloxetine delayed-release capsules in the treatment of CLBP. Patients in all trials had no signs of radiculopathy or spinal stenosis.

    Study CLBP-1: Two hundred thirty-six adult patients (N=115 on duloxetine delayed-release capsules, N=121 on placebo) enrolled and 182 (77%) completed 13-week treatment phase. After 7 weeks of treatment, duloxetine-treated patients with less than 30% reduction in average daily pain and who were able to tolerate 60 mg once daily had their duloxetine delayed-release capsules dosage, in a double-blinded fashion, increased to 120 mg once daily for the remainder of the trial. Patients had a mean baseline pain rating of 6 on a numerical rating scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst possible pain). After 13 weeks of treatment, patients taking duloxetine delayed-release capsules 60 mg to120 mg daily had a significantly greater pain reduction compared to patients taking placebo. Randomization was stratified by the patients’ baseline NSAIDs use status. Subgroup analyses did not indicate that there were differences in treatment outcomes as a function of NSAIDs use.

    Study CLBP-2: Four hundred and four patients were randomized to receive fixed dosages of duloxetine delayed-release capsules daily or a matching placebo (N=59 on duloxetine delayed-release capsules 20 mg, N=116 on duloxetine delayed-release capsules 60 mg, N=112 on duloxetine delayed-release capsules 120 mg, N=117 on placebo) and 267 (66%) completed the entire 13-week trial. After 13 weeks of treatment, none of the three duloxetine delayed-release capsules dosages showed a statistically significant difference in pain reduction compared to placebo.

    Study CLBP-3: Four hundred and one patients were randomized to receive fixed doses of duloxetine delayed-release capsules 60 mg daily or placebo (N=198 on duloxetine delayed-release capsules, N=203 on placebo), and 303 (76%) completed the trial. Patients had a mean baseline pain rating of 6 on a numerical rating scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst possible pain). After 12 weeks of treatment, patients taking duloxetine delayed-release capsules 60 mg daily had significantly greater pain reduction compared to patients taking placebo.

    For various degrees of improvement in pain from baseline to study endpoint, Figures 8 and 9 show the fraction of patients in Studies CLBP-1 and CLBP-3 achieving that degree of improvement, respectively. The figures are cumulative, so that patients whose change from baseline is, for example, 50%, are also included at every level of improvement below 50%. Patients who did not complete the trial were assigned the value of 0% improvement.

    Figure 8: Percentage of Adult Patients with CLBP Achieving Various Levels of Pain Relief as Measured by 24-Hour Average Pain Severity (Study CLBP-1)

    Figure 9: Percentage of Adult Patients with CLBP Achieving Various Levels of Pain Relief as Measured by 24-Hour Average Pain Severity (Study CLBP-3)

    Trials in Chronic Pain Due to Osteoarthritis in Adults

    The efficacy of duloxetine delayed-release capsules in chronic pain due to osteoarthritis (OA) in adults was assessed in 2 double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trials of 13-weeks duration (Study OA-1 and Study OA-2). All patients in both trials fulfilled the ACR clinical and radiographic criteria for classification of idiopathic OA of the knee. Randomization was stratified by the patients’ baseline NSAIDs-use status.

    Patients assigned to duloxetine delayed-release capsules started treatment in both trials at a dose of 30 mg once daily for one week. After the first week, the dose of duloxetine delayed-release capsules was increased to 60 mg once daily. After 7 weeks of treatment with duloxetine delayed-release capsules 60 mg once daily, in Study OA-1 patients with sub-optimal response to treatment (less than 30% pain reduction) and tolerated duloxetine delayed-release capsules 60 mg once daily had their dose increased to 120 mg. However, in Study OA-2, all patients, regardless of their response to treatment after 7 weeks, were re-randomized to either continue receiving duloxetine delayed-release capsules 60 mg once daily or have their dosage increased to 120 mg once daily for the remainder of the trial. Patients in the placebo treatment groups in both trials received a matching placebo for the entire duration of trials. For both trials, efficacy analyses were conducted using 13-week data from the combined duloxetine delayed-release capsules 60 mg and 120 mg once daily treatment groups compared to the placebo group.

    Study OA-1: Two hundred fifty-six patients (N=128 on duloxetine delayed-release capsules, N=128 on placebo) enrolled and 204 (80%) completed the trial. Patients had a mean baseline pain rating of 6 on a numerical rating scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst possible pain). After 13 weeks of treatment, patients taking duloxetine delayed-release capsules had significantly greater pain reduction than patients taking placebo. Subgroup analyses did not indicate that there were differences in treatment outcomes as a function of NSAIDs use.

    Study OA-2: Two hundred thirty-one patients (N=111 on duloxetine delayed-release capsules, N=120 on placebo) enrolled and 173 (75%) completed the trial. Patients had a mean baseline pain of 6 on a numerical rating scale ranging from 0 (no pain) to 10 (worst possible pain). After 13 weeks of treatment, patients taking duloxetine delayed-release capsules did not show a significantly greater pain reduction than patients taking placebo.

    In Study OA-1, for various degrees of improvement in pain from baseline to study endpoint, Figure 10 shows the fraction of patients achieving that degree of improvement. The figure is cumulative, so that patients whose change from baseline is, for example, 50%, are also included at every level of improvement below 50%. Patients who did not complete the trial were assigned the value of 0% improvement.

    Figure 10: Percentage of Adult Patients with OA Achieving Various Levels of Pain Relief as Measured by 24-Hour Average Pain Severity (Study OA-1)

  • 16 HOW SUPPLIED/STORAGE AND HANDLING

    16.1 How Supplied

    Duloxetine Delayed-Release Capsules 20 mg a:

    White/Blue hard gelatin capsules of size “4” with “DLX 20” imprint on body and “ap” logo imprint on cap with black

    color ink and containing white to off white pellets:

    Bottles of 60………………....68001-594-06

    Duloxetine Delayed-Release Capsules 30 mg a:

    Blue/Blue hard gelatin capsules of size “3” with “DLX 30” imprint on body and “ap” logo imprint on cap with black

    color ink and containing white to off white pellets:

    Bottles of 30…………………68001-595-04

    Bottles of 90…………………68001-595-05

    Bottles of 1000……………....68001-595-08

    Duloxetine Delayed-Release Capsules 40 mg a:

    Pink/Blue hard gelatin capsules of size ‘’3’’ with ‘’DLX 40’’ imprint on body and ‘’ap’’ logo imprint on cap with black

    color ink and containing white to off white pellets:

    Bottles of 30………………....68001-570-04

    Duloxetine Delayed-Release Capsules 60 mg a:

    White/Blue hard gelatin capsules of size “1” with “DLX 60” imprint on body with black color ink and “ap” logo

    imprint on cap with white color ink and containing white to off white pellets:

    Bottles of 30………………....68001-596-04

    Bottles of 1000………………68001-596-08

    aequivalent to duloxetine base

    16.2 Storage and Handling

    Store at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [ seeUSP Controlled Room Temperature].

  • 17 PATIENT COUNSELING INFORMATION

    Advise the patient to read the FDA-approved patient labeling (Medication Guide).

    • Suicidal Thoughts and Behaviors— Advise patients, their families, and their caregivers to look for the emergence of suicidal ideation and behavior, especially during treatment and when the dose is adjusted up or down and instruct them to report such symptoms to their healthcare provider [see Boxed Warning and Warnings and Precautions ( 5.1)].
    • Administration— Advise patients to swallow duloxetine delayed-release capsules whole and to not chew, crush, or open the capsule (do not sprinkle contents on food or mixed with liquids) because these actions might affect the enteric coating.
    • Hepatotoxicity— Inform patients that severe liver problems, sometimes fatal, have been reported in patients treated with duloxetine delayed-release capsules. Instruct patients to talk to their healthcare provider if they develop itching, right upper belly pain, dark urine, or yellow skin/eyes while taking duloxetine delayed-release capsules, which may be signs of liver problems. Instruct patients to talk to their healthcare provider about their alcohol consumption. Use of duloxetine delayed-release capsules with heavy alcohol intake may be associated with severe liver injury [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2)].
    • Alcohol— Although duloxetine does not increase the impairment of mental and motor skills caused by alcohol, use of duloxetine concomitantly with heavy alcohol intake may be associated with severe liver injury [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.2) and Drug Interactions ( 7.15)].
    • Orthostatic Hypotension, Falls and Syncope— Advise patients of the risk of orthostatic hypotension, falls and syncope, especially during the period of initial use and subsequent dose escalation, and in association with the use of concomitant drugs that might potentiate the orthostatic effect of duloxetine [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.3)].
    • Serotonin Syndrome— Caution patients about the risk of serotonin syndrome with the concomitant use of duloxetine delayed-release capsules and other serotonergic agents including triptans, tricyclic antidepressants, opioids, lithium, buspirone, tryptophan, amphetamines, and St. John’s Wort [see Contraindications ( 4), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4), and Drug Interactions ( 7.14)]. Advise patients of the signs and symptoms associated with serotonin syndrome that may include mental status changes (e.g., agitation, hallucinations, delirium, and coma), autonomic instability (e.g., tachycardia, labile blood pressure, dizziness, diaphoresis, flushing, hyperthermia), neuromuscular changes (e.g., tremor, rigidity, myoclonus, hyperreflexia, incoordination), seizures, and/or gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhea). Caution patients to seek medical care immediately if they experience these symptoms.
    • Increased Risk of Bleeding— Caution patients about the concomitant use of duloxetine and NSAIDs, aspirin, warfarin, or other drugs that affect coagulation since combined use of psychotropic drugs that interfere with serotonin reuptake and these agents has been associated with an increased risk of bleeding [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.5) and Use in Specific Populations ( 8.1)].
    • Severe Skin Reactions— Caution patients that duloxetine may cause serious skin reactions. This may need to be treated in a hospital and may be life-threatening. Counsel patients to call their doctor right away or get emergency help if they have skin blisters, peeling rash, sores in their mouth, hives, or any other allergic reactions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.6)].
    • Discontinuation of Treatment— Instruct patients that discontinuation of duloxetine delayed-release capsules may be associated with symptoms such as dizziness, headache, nausea, diarrhea, paresthesia, irritability, vomiting, insomnia, anxiety, hyperhidrosis, and fatigue, and should be advised not to alter their dosing regimen, or stop taking duloxetine delayed-release capsules without consulting their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.7)].
    • Activation of Mania or Hypomania— Adequately screen patients with depressive symptoms for risk of bipolar disorder (e.g. family history of suicide, bipolar disorder, and depression) prior to initiating treatment with duloxetine delayed-release capsules. Advise patients to report any signs or symptoms of a manic reaction such as greatly increased energy, severe trouble sleeping, racing thoughts, reckless behavior, talking more or faster than usual, unusually grand ideas, and excessive happiness or irritability [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.8)].
    • Angle-Closure Glaucoma— Advise patients that taking duloxetine delayed-release capsules can cause mild pupillary dilation, which in susceptible individuals, can lead to an episode of angle-closure glaucoma. Pre-existing glaucoma is almost always open-angle glaucoma because angle-closure glaucoma, when diagnosed, can be treated definitively with iridectomy. Open-angle glaucoma is not a risk factor for angle-closure glaucoma. Patients may wish to be examined to determine whether they are susceptible to angle-closure, and have a prophylactic procedure (e.g., iridectomy), if they are susceptible [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.9)].
    • Seizures— Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider if they have a history of seizure disorder [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.10)].
    • Effects on Blood Pressure— Caution patients that duloxetine delayed-release capsules may cause an increase in blood pressure [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.11)].

     

    • Concomitant Medications— Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider if they are taking, or plan to take, any prescription or over-the-counter medications, since there is a potential for interactions [see Dosage and Administration ( 2.9, 2.10), Contraindications ( 4), Warnings and Precautions ( 5.4, 5.12), and Drug Interactions ( 7)].
    • Hyponatremia— Advise patients that hyponatremia has been reported as a result of treatment with SNRIs and SSRIs, including duloxetine delayed-release capsules. Advise patients of the signs and symptoms of hyponatremia [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.13)].
    • Concomitant Illnesses— Advise patients to inform their healthcare provider about all of their medical conditions [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.14)].
    • Urinary Hesitation and Retention- Duloxetine is in a class of medicines that may affect urination. Instruct patients to consult with their healthcare provider if they develop any problems with urine flow [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.15)].
    • Sexual Dysfunction— Advise patients that use of duloxetine may cause symptoms of sexual dysfunction in both male and female patients. Inform patients that they should discuss any changes in sexual function and potential management strategies with their healthcare provider [see Warnings and Precautions ( 5.16)].
    • Pregnancy
      • Advise women to notify their healthcare provider if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during treatment with duloxetine.
      • Advise pregnant women or patients who intend to become pregnant that duloxetine may increase the risk of neonatal complications requiring prolonged hospitalization, respiratory support, and tube feeding.
      • Advise pregnant women that there is a risk of relapse with discontinuation of antidepressants.
      • Advise patients that there is a pregnancy exposure registry that monitors pregnancy outcomes in
    • women exposed to duloxetine during pregnancy [see Use in Specific Populations (8.1)].
    • Lactation― Advise breastfeeding women using duloxetine to monitor infants for sedation, poor feeding and poor weight gain and to seek medical care if they notice these signs [see Use in Specific Populations ( 8.2)].
    • Interference with Psychomotor Performance—duloxetine may be associated with sedation and dizziness. Therefore, caution patients about operating hazardous machinery including automobiles, until they are reasonably certain that duloxetine therapy does not affect their ability to engage in such activities.

    Manufactured by:

    Ajanta Pharma Limited

    Made in INDIA.
    For BluePoint Laboratories

    Revised: 09/2023

  • Medication Guide

    Duloxetine Delayed-Release Capsules
    (doo lox’ e teen)

    Read this Medication Guide before you start taking duloxetine delayed-release capsules and each time you get a refill. There may be new information. This information does not take the place of talking to your healthcare provider about your medical condition or treatment.
    Talk to your healthcare provider about:

    • all risks and benefits of treatment with antidepressant medicines
    • all treatment choices for depression or other serious mental illness

    What is the most important information I should know about antidepressant medicines, depression, other serious mental illnesses, and suicidal thoughts or actions?

    1. Duloxetine delayed-release capsules and other antidepressant medicines may increase suicidal thoughts or actions in some children, teenagers, or young adults within the first few months of treatment or when the dose is changed.
    2. Depression and other serious mental illnesses are the most important causes of suicidal thoughts or actions. Some people may have a particularly high risk of having suicidal thoughts or actions.These include people who have (or have a family history of) bipolar illness (also called manic-depressive illness).
    3. How can I watch for and try to prevent suicidal thoughts and actions?
    4. Pay close attention to any changes in mood, behavior, actions, thoughts, or feelings, especially sudden changes. This is very important when an antidepressant medicine is started or when the dose is changed.
    5. Call your healthcare provider right away to report new or sudden changes in mood, behavior, thoughts, or feelings.
      1. Keep all follow-up visits with your healthcare provider as scheduled. Call your healthcare provider between visits as needed, especially if you have concerns about symptoms.

    Call your healthcare provider right away if you have any of the following symptoms, or feelings, especially if they are new, worse, or worry you. In an emergency, call 911.

    • attempts to commit suicide
    • acting on dangerous impulses
    • acting aggressive, being angry, or violent
    • thoughts about suicide or dying
    • new or worse depression
    • new or worse anxiety
    • panic attacks
    • feeling very agitated or restless
    • new or worse irritability
    • trouble sleeping
    • an extreme increase in activity or talking (mania)
    • other unusual changes in behavior or mood

    What else do I need to know about antidepressant medicines?

    • Never stop an antidepressant medicine without first talking to a healthcare provider. Stopping an antidepressant medicine suddenly can cause other symptoms.
    • Antidepressants are medicines used to treat depression and other illnesses. It is important to discuss all the risks of treating depression and also the risks of not treating it. Patients should discuss all treatment choices with your healthcare provider, not just the use of antidepressants.
    • Antidepressant medicines have other side effects. Talk to your healthcare provider about the side effects of the medicine prescribed for you or your family member.
    • Antidepressant medicines can interact with other medicines. Know all of the medicines that you or your family member takes. Keep a list of all medicines to show your healthcare provider. Do not start new medicines without first checking with your healthcare provider.

    What are duloxetine delayed-release capsules?
    Duloxetine delayed-release capsules are a prescription medicine used to treat a certain type of depression called Major Depressive Disorder (MDD). Duloxetine delayed-release capsules belongs to a class of medicines known as SNRIs (or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors).
    Duloxetine delayed-release capsules are also used to treat or manage:

    • Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD)
    • Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain (DPNP)
    • Fibromyalgia (FM)
    • Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain

    Who should not take duloxetine delayed-release capsules?

    Do Not take duloxetine delayed-release capsules if you:

    • take a Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitor (MAOI).Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you are not sure if you take an MAOI, including the antibiotic linezolid or intravenous methylene blue.
      • Do not take an MAOI within 5 days of stopping duloxetine delayed-release capsules unless directed to do so by your healthcare provider.
      • Do not start duloxetine delayed-release capsules if you stopped taking an MAOI in the last 14 days unless directed to do so by your healthcare provider.

    People who take duloxetine delayed-release capsules close in time to an MAOI may have a serious problem called Serotonin Syndrome (see “What are the possible side effects of duloxetine delayed-release capsules?”).

    What should I tell my healthcare provider before taking duloxetine delayed-release capsules?
    Before starting duloxetine delayed-release capsules, tell your healthcare provider if you:

    • have heart problems or high blood pressure
    • have diabetes (duloxetine delayed-release capsules treatment makes it harder for some people with diabetes to control their blood sugar)
    • have liver problems
    • have kidney problems
    • have glaucoma
    • have or had seizures or convulsions
    • have bipolar disorder or mania
    • have low sodium levels in your blood
    • have delayed stomach emptying
    • have or had bleeding problems
    • are pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Duloxetine delayed-release capsules may harm your unborn baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about the risk to your unborn baby if you take duloxetine delayed-release capsules during pregnancy.
      • Tell your healthcare provider right away if you become pregnant or think you are pregnant during treatment with duloxetine delayed-release capsules
      • There is a pregnancy registry for females who are exposed to duloxetine delayed-release capsules during pregnancy. The purpose of the registry is to collect information about the health of females exposed to duloxetine delayed-release capsules and their baby. If you become pregnant during treatment with duloxetine delayed-release capsules, talk to your healthcare provider about registering with the National Pregnancy Registry for Antidepressants at 1-866-961-2388 or visit online at https://womensmentalhealth.org/research/pregnancyregistry/.
    • are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed. Duloxetine passes into your breast milk and may harm your baby. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best way to feed your baby while taking duloxetine delayed-release capsules.

    Tell your healthcare provider about all the medicines that you take,including prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Duloxetine delayed-release capsules and some medicines may interact with each other, may not work as well, or may cause serious side effects.

    Especially tell your healthcare provider if you take:

    • triptans used to treat migraine headache
    • medicines used to treat mood, anxiety, psychotic or thought disorders, including tricyclics, lithium, buspirone, SSRIs, SNRIs or MAOIs
    • tramadol, fentanyl, meperidine, methadone, or other opioids
    • amphetamines
    • cimetidine
    • the antibiotics ciprofloxacin, enoxacin
    • medicine to treat irregular heart rate (like propafenone, flecainide, quinidine)
    • theophylline
    • the blood thinner warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven)
    • non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) (like ibuprofen, naproxen or aspirin).
    • over-the-counter supplements such as tryptophan or St. John's Wort
    • thioridazine (Mellaril). Mellaril together with duloxetine delayed-release capsules can cause serious heart rhythm problems or sudden death.

    Ask your healthcare provider for a list of these medicines if you are not sure.
    Do not take duloxetine delayed-release capsules with any other medicine that contain duloxetine.

    How should I take duloxetine delayed-release capsules?

    • Take duloxetine delayed-release capsules exactly as your healthcare provider tells you to take it. Your healthcare provider may need to change the dose of duloxetine delayed-release capsules until it is the right dose for you.
    • Swallow duloxetine delayed-release capsules whole. Do not chew or crush duloxetine delayed-release capsules.
    • Do not open the capsule and sprinkle on food or mix with liquids. Opening the capsule may affect how well duloxetine delayed-release capsules work.
    • Duloxetine delayed-release capsules may be taken with or without food.
    • If you miss a dose of duloxetine delayed-release capsules, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses of duloxetine delayed-release capsules at the same time.
    • If you take too much duloxetine delayed-release capsules, call your healthcare provider or poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 right away, or get emergency treatment.
    • When switching from another antidepressant to duloxetine delayed-release capsules your healthcare provider may want to lower the dose of the initial antidepressant first to potentially avoid side effects.

    What should I avoid while taking duloxetine delayed-release capsules?

    • Duloxetine delayed-release capsules can cause sleepiness or may affect your ability to make decisions, think clearly, or react quickly. You should not drive, operate heavy machinery, or do other dangerous activities until you know how duloxetine delayed-release capsules affects you.
    • Use of duloxetine delayed-release capsules concomitantly with heavy alcohol intake may be associated with severe liver injury. Avoid heavy alcohol use while taking duloxetine delayed-release capsules.

    What are the possible side effects of duloxetine delayed-release capsules?
    Duloxetine delayed-release capsules may cause serious side effects, including: See “What is the most important information I should know about duloxetine delayed-release capsules?”

    Common possible side effects in people who take duloxetine delayed-release capsules include:

    1. liver damage. Symptoms may include:

    • itching
    • right upper abdominal pain
    • dark urine
    • yellow skin or eyes
    • enlarged liver
    • increased liver enzymes

    2. changes in blood pressure and falls. Monitor your blood pressure before starting and throughout treatment. Duloxetine delayed-release capsules may:

    • increase your blood pressure.
    • decrease your blood pressure when standing and cause dizziness or fainting, mostly when first starting duloxetine delayed-release capsules or when increasing the dose.
    • increase risk of falls, especially in elderly.

    3. Serotonin Syndrome: This condition can be life-threatening and symptoms may include:

    • agitation, hallucinations, coma or other changes in mental status
    • coordination problems or muscle twitching (overactive reflexes)
    • racing heartbeat, high or low blood pressure
    • sweating or fever
    • nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
    • muscle rigidity
    • dizziness
    • flushing
    • tremor
    • seizures

    4.  abnormal bleeding:Duloxetine delayed-release capsules and other antidepressant medicines may increase your risk of bleeding or bruising, especially if you take the blood thinner warfarin (Coumadin, Jantoven), a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAIDs, like ibuprofen or naproxen), or aspirin.
    5.severe skin reactions:Duloxetine delayed-release capsules may cause serious skin reactions that may require stopping its use. This may need to be treated in a hospital and may be life-threatening. Call your healthcare provider right away or get emergency help if you have skin blisters, peeling rash, sores in the mouth, hives or any other allergic reactions.

    6.discontinuation symptoms:Do not stop duloxetine delayed-release capsules without first talking to your healthcare provider. Stopping duloxetine delayed-release capsules too quickly or changing from another antidepressant too quickly may result in serious symptoms including:

    • anxiety
    • irritability
    • feeling tired or problems sleeping
    • headache
    • sweating
    • dizziness
    • electric shock-like sensations
    • vomiting or nausea
    • diarrhea

    7. manic episodes:

    • greatly increased energy
    • severe trouble sleeping
    • racing thoughts
    • reckless behavior
    • unusually grand ideas
    • excessive happiness or irritability
    • talking more or faster than usual

    8. visual problems:

    • eye pain
    • changes in vision
    • swelling or redness in or around the eye
      Only some people are at risk for these problems. You may want to undergo an eye examination to see if you are at risk and receive preventative treatment if you are.

    9. seizures or convulsions

    10. low salt (sodium) levels in the blood.Elderly people may be at greater risk for this.
    Symptoms may include:

    • headache
    • weakness or feeling unsteady
    • confusion, problems concentrating or thinking or memory problems

    11. problems with urination. Symptoms may include:

    • decreased urine flow
    • unable to pass any urine

    12. sexual problems (dysfunction).Taking serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), including duloxetine delayed-release capsules, may cause sexual problems.
    Symptoms in males may include:

    • delayed ejaculation or inability to have an ejaculation
    • decreased sex drive
    • problems getting or keeping an erection

    Symptoms in females may include:

    • decreased sex drive
    • delayed orgasm or inability to have an orgasm

    Talk to your healthcare provider if you develop any changes in your sexual function or if you have any questions or concerns about sexual problems during treatment with duloxetine delayed-release capsules. There may be treatments your healthcare provider can suggest.

    The most common side effects of duloxetine delayed-release capsules include:

    • nausea
    • dry mouth
    • sleepiness
    • fatigue
    • constipation
    • loss of appetite
    • increased sweating
    • dizziness

    Common possible side effects in children and adolescents who take duloxetine delayed-release capsules include:

    • nausea
    • decreased weight
    • dizziness

    Side effects in adults may also occur in children and adolescents who take duloxetine delayed-release capsules. Children and adolescents should have height and weight monitored during treatment.
    Tell your healthcare provider if you have any side effect that bothers you or that does not go away.
    These are not all the possible side effects of duloxetine delayed-release capsules. For more information, ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
    Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to 1-800-FDA-1088
    How should I store duloxetine delayed-release capsules?
    Store duloxetine delayed-release capsules at 25°C (77°F); excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C (59° to 86°F) [see USP Controlled Room Temperature].

    Keep duloxetine delayed-release capsules and all medicines out of the reach of children.

    General information about the safe and effective use of duloxetine delayed-release capsules

    Medicines are sometimes prescribed for purposes other than those listed in a Medication Guide. Do not use duloxetine delayed-release capsules for a condition for which it was not prescribed. Do not give duloxetine delayed-release capsules to other people, even if they have the same symptoms that you have. It may harm them.

    This Medication Guide summarizes the most important information about duloxetine delayed-release capsules. If you would like more information, talk with your healthcare provider. You may ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist for information about duloxetine delayed-release capsules that is written for healthcare professionals.
    For more information, call 1-855-664-7744.
    What are the ingredients in duloxetine delayed-release capsules?
    Active ingredient:duloxetine hydrochloride, USP
    Inactive ingredients:
    sugar spheres, hypromellose, sucrose, talc, methacrylic acid copolymer dispersion, and triethyl citrate.
    The capsule shell contains gelatin, FD&C Red No. 3 (40 mg), FD&C Blue No. 1 (40 mg), FD&C Blue No. 2 (20 mg, 30 mg, 60 mg), titanium dioxide, and sodium lauryl sulfate.
    For 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg (body & cap) and 60 mg (body only) strengths, imprinting black ink contains shellac, dehydrated alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, butyl alcohol, propylene glycol, strong ammonia solution, black iron oxide, potassium hydroxide, and purified water.
    For 60 mg (cap only) strength, imprinting white ink contains shellac, dehydrated alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, butyl alcohol, propylene glycol, strong ammonia solution, purified water, potassium hydroxide, and titanium dioxide.

    This Medication Guide has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration

    All trademarks are the properties of their respective owners.

    Manufactured by:

    Ajanta Pharma Limited

    Made in INDIA.
    For BluePoint Laboratories

    Revised: 09/2023

  • PRINCIPAL DISPLAY PANEL

    label

  • INGREDIENTS AND APPEARANCE
    DULOXETINE 
    duloxetine capsule, delayed release
    Product Information
    Product TypeHUMAN PRESCRIPTION DRUGItem Code (Source)NDC: 67046-1253(NDC:68001-594)
    Route of AdministrationORAL
    Active Ingredient/Active Moiety
    Ingredient NameBasis of StrengthStrength
    DULOXETINE HYDROCHLORIDE (UNII: 9044SC542W) (DULOXETINE - UNII:O5TNM5N07U) DULOXETINE20 mg
    Inactive Ingredients
    Ingredient NameStrength
    HYPROMELLOSE, UNSPECIFIED (UNII: 3NXW29V3WO)  
    SUCROSE (UNII: C151H8M554)  
    TALC (UNII: 7SEV7J4R1U)  
    METHACRYLIC ACID - ETHYL ACRYLATE COPOLYMER (1:1) TYPE A (UNII: NX76LV5T8J)  
    TRIETHYL CITRATE (UNII: 8Z96QXD6UM)  
    FD&C BLUE NO. 2 (UNII: L06K8R7DQK)  
    TITANIUM DIOXIDE (UNII: 15FIX9V2JP)  
    SODIUM LAURYL SULFATE (UNII: 368GB5141J)  
    SHELLAC (UNII: 46N107B71O)  
    ALCOHOL (UNII: 3K9958V90M)  
    ISOPROPYL ALCOHOL (UNII: ND2M416302)  
    BUTYL ALCOHOL (UNII: 8PJ61P6TS3)  
    PROPYLENE GLYCOL (UNII: 6DC9Q167V3)  
    AMMONIA (UNII: 5138Q19F1X)  
    FERROSOFERRIC OXIDE (UNII: XM0M87F357)  
    POTASSIUM HYDROXIDE (UNII: WZH3C48M4T)  
    WATER (UNII: 059QF0KO0R)  
    Product Characteristics
    Colorwhite, blueScoreno score
    ShapeCAPSULESize14mm
    FlavorImprint Code DLX20;ap
    Contains    
    Packaging
    #Item CodePackage DescriptionMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    1NDC: 67046-1253-330 in 1 BLISTER PACK; Type 0: Not a Combination Product11/11/2024
    Marketing Information
    Marketing CategoryApplication Number or Monograph CitationMarketing Start DateMarketing End Date
    ANDAANDA20870611/11/2024
    Labeler - Coupler LLC (119003108)
    Establishment
    NameAddressID/FEIBusiness Operations
    Coupler LLC119003108repack(67046-1253)
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