Can duloxetine cause depression? (+5 alternatives)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
In this article, we will discuss whether duloxetine causes depression. We will also discuss the research studies investigating the association between duloxetine and depression. Additionally, we will explore the alternative to duloxetine, if it fails to manage depression.
Can duloxetine cause depression?
No, duloxetine does not cause depression. It may exacerbate a few symptoms of depression during the initial phase of treatment in patients with underlying depression, however, it does not induce depression in non-depressive patients.
Duloxetine is an antidepressant medication that works by interfering with the concentration of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. The elevated levels of these neurotransmitters help in the regulation of mood and alleviation of various symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other medical conditions such as fibromyalgia and chronic pain (1).
Duloxetine is generally a well-tolerated medication but it may cause various side effects during the start of treatment when the body is adjusting to the medication. The most common side effects associated with its use may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, headaches, and fatigue.
What does research suggest?
There is currently no research evidence indicating that duloxetine is the cause of inducing depression in non-depressive patients. However, some studies suggest that this medication may exacerbate a few symptoms of depression in certain individuals.
In a research study assessing the effectiveness of duloxetine in treating depression, it was found that less than 10% of patients discontinued the medication within a few weeks of treatment. The decision to stop was attributed to the exacerbation of symptoms of depression (2).
In another research study involving patients less than 18 years of age, treated with duloxetine for depression, the results indicated both efficacy and safety. However, it was observed that 3% of the patients experienced an increase in suicidal tendencies, leading to a worsening of depressive symptoms (3).
What are the depression-related side effects of duloxetine?
Duloxetine is generally considered a safer medication, but it may exacerbate a few symptoms of depression in some individuals, based on their sensitivity to medication and overall health condition. These symptoms may include (1):
- suicidal tendencies
- changes in mood
- behavioral changes
- mood swings
- irritability
- aggression
- agitation
- confusion
It is important to note that these symptoms do not occur in all individuals who take this medication. The incidence of worsening of depression is low with this medication, however, you should consult your healthcare provider if you experience any unusual symptoms after using duloxetine.
What to do if duloxetine exacerbates the symptoms of depression?
If duloxetine fails to manage depression or worsens the symptoms associated with it, it is important to consult your healthcare provider. They can assess your condition and determine the actual cause of treatment failure.
It is crucial to remain patient during the course of treatment, as duloxetine may take time to show its full therapeutic effects. In the initial stages, some individuals may experience an exacerbation of side effects, including a temporary worsening of depressive symptoms. However, with continued use, the medication often begins to alleviate depression and improve overall mood.
Individuals need to communicate openly with their healthcare providers about any concerns or changes in symptoms, allowing for adjustments to the treatment plan as needed.
If duloxetine is associated with worsening depression, your healthcare provider may recommend an alternative. However, you should not make any changes in the treatment plan involving duloxetine, including dosage adjustment or discontinuation of the medication, without consulting your healthcare provider. Sudden withdrawal of duloxetine without the consultation of a healthcare provider may lead to discontinuation syndrome.
What are the alternatives to duloxetine for managing depression?
Alternatives to duloxetine that can be effectively used for the management of depression and its associated symptoms, may include (4):
- other serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (venlafaxine)
- selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (citalopram, fluoxetine)
- tricyclic antidepressants (amitryptiline)
- atypical antidepressants (bupropion)
- tetracyclic antidepressants (mirtazapine)
These alternative medications can be effectively utilized for managing depression. While they differ in their mechanism of action, they are all indicated for the treatment of depression, offering a range of options to tailor the treatment to individual needs.
To my knowledge, duloxetine does not cause depression, instead, it is a drug of choice for managing depression. However, in some cases, it may worsen symptoms of depression in patients with pre-existing depression. It’s crucial to stay vigilant and consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symtoms after taking duloxetine.
Was this helpful?
References
1.-
Dhaliwal JS, Spurling BC, Molla M. Duloxetine. [Updated 2023 May 29]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549806
2.-
Dunner DL, Wilson M, Fava M, Kornstein S, Munoz R, O’Reardon J, Trivedi M, Wohlreich M. Long-term tolerability and effectiveness of duloxetine in the treatment of major depressive disorder. Depress Anxiety. 2008;25(5):E1-8. doi: 10.1002/da.20339. PMID: 17621644. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17621644/
3.-
Prakash A, Lobo E, Kratochvil CJ, Tamura RN, Pangallo BA, Bullok KE, Quinlan T, Emslie GJ, March JS. An open-label safety and pharmacokinetics study of duloxetine in pediatric patients with major depression. J Child Adolesc Psychopharmacol. 2012 Feb;22(1):48-55. doi: 10.1089/cap.2011.0072. Epub 2012 Jan 17. PMID: 22251023.
4.-
Sheffler ZM, Patel P, Abdijadid S. Antidepressants. [Updated 2023 May 26]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK538182/
Find a supportive therapist who can help with Depression.
Discover the convenience of BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connecting you with licensed and accredited therapists specialized in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, and more. Complete the assessment and find your ideal therapist within just 48 hours.
AskYourPharm is user-supported. We may earn a commission if you sign up for BetterHelp’s services after clicking through from this site
