Can duloxetine stop your period? (+5 factors)
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 the effects of duloxetine on your period. We will also discuss the research studies on duloxetine’s effect on the menstrual cycle as well as the factors that may increase the risk of amenorrhea while taking duloxetine.
Can duloxetine stop your period?
Yes, duloxetine may stop your period. However, this is not a common side effect of duloxetine and it does not occur in everyone who takes this medication. Individuals’ responses to duloxetine can vary depending on their sensitivity to the medication, genetic factors, and, underlying health conditions.
Duloxetine belongs to the class of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor antidepressant medications. It increases the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain, which are responsible for the elevation of mood and reduction of various symptoms of mental disorders. It is frequently prescribed for the management of deression, anxiety, and fibromyalgia (1).
What is the mechanism of duloxetine in stopping periods?
Although the precise cause of duloxetine-induced menstrual irregularities is not fully understood, it is believed to be associated with the hyperprolactinemia brought about by the medication. As duloxetine elevates prolactin levels, this can have an inhibitory effect on the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), leading to a decrease in luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone (2,3).
These hormonal changes can result in an abnormal menstrual cycle, characterized by a lack of ovulation and a disrupted luteal phase, ultimately leading to irregular or absent periods.
What does research suggest?
In a research study, two women aged 40 years and above reported the cessation of menstrual periods following the use of duloxetine. One patient noted this change three weeks into duloxetine treatment, and upon discontinuation of the medication, her menstrual cycle returned (3).
In the other case, menstrual periods stopped shortly after the initiation of duloxetine. Despite missing a few consecutive periods, menstruation returned to normal without any adjustments in the duloxetine dosage. Notably, the patient was not taking any other medication in this case (3).
In another research study, a patient diagnosed with major depressive disorder, undergoing duloxetine treatment, experienced the development of hyperprolactinemia and subsequent amenorrhea within a span of two months. The emergence of elevated prolactin levels and the subsequent absence of menstrual periods raised concerns about the impact of duloxetine on hormonal regulation (4).
What factors can increase the risk of amenorrhea while taking duloxetine?
Amenorrhea is not a frequently reported side effect of duloxetine. However, there are certain factors that could potentially increase the risk of experiencing amenorrhea while taking duloxetine such as:
Individual factors: Some people may respond differently to medications, and some individuals may be more susceptible to hormonal changes or disruptions in their menstrual cycle due to their individual sensitivity.
Pre-existing health conditions: Underlying reproductive and endocrine disorders may interact with the effects of duloxetine and potentially impact menstrual regularity.
Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety for which duloxetine is often prescribed, can affect the menstrual cycle. Changes in stress levels, lifestyle factors, or changes in weight associated with mental health conditions may contribute to menstrual irregularities.
Medication history: Concurrent use of other medications that affect hormonal balance could potentially interact with duloxetine and contribute to menstrual changes.
High dosage: Although amenorrhea is not a very frequently occurring side effect of duloxetine, higher doses of duloxetine or prolonged use may increase the risk of menstrual abnormalities in some individuals who take this medication.
What to do if duloxetine stops your period?
If you notice changes in your menstrual cycle while taking duloxetine, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider. They can help determine the cause of the changes and provide appropriate guidance.
Your healthcare provider may conduct a thorough medical evaluation to understand the potential causes of amenorrhea. This may involve reviewing your medical history, performing physical examinations, and ordering relevant tests.
If your healthcare provider determines that duloxetine is likely responsible for the menstrual changes but the risks outweigh the benefits, they may consider alternative medications or adjustments to your treatment plan.
Your healthcare provider may recommend continued monitoring of your menstrual cycle and overall health. Regular follow-up appointments allow for ongoing assessment and adjustments to your treatment if needed.
It’s important not to make changes to your medication regimen without consulting your healthcare provider, as abruptly stopping or changing doses of medications can have unintended consequences and may not be safe.
Based on my knowledge and experience, the association between amenorrhea and duloxetine warrants attention. Through my encounters, I have observed instances that underscore the need for vigilant monitoring. Open communication between healthcare providers and patients is crucial when addressing changes in menstrual patterns related to duloxetine use.
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References
1.-
Dhaliwal JS, Spurling BC, Molla M. Duloxetine. 2023 May 29. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 31747213. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31747213/
2.-
Özkan HM. Duloksetin Tedavisi ile İlişkili Galaktore ve Hiperprolaktinemi: Bir Olgu Sunumu [Duloxetine Associated Galactorrhea and Hyperprolactinemia: A Case Report]. Turk Psikiyatri Derg. 2020 Winter;31(4):294-296. Turkish. doi: 10.5080/u23918. PMID: 33454942. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33454942/
3.-
Härmark L, van Puijenbroek E, van Grootheest K. Intensive monitoring of duloxetine: results of a web-based intensive monitoring study. Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 2013 Feb;69(2):209-15. doi: 10.1007/s00228-012-1313-7. Epub 2012 Jun 12. PMID: 22688722; PMCID: PMC3548094. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3548094/
4.-
Çam, Birmay MD; Karldere, Tunay MDı. Amenorrhea Associated With Duloxetine: Two Case Reports. Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology 34(4):p 522-523, August 2014. | DOI: 10.1097/JCP.0000000000000123 https://journals.lww.com/psychopharmacology/citation/2014/08000/
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