What is the brand name for Duloxetine?
The brand name for Duloxetine is Cymbalta.
PTCE Top 200 · #31
Duloxetine
Cymbalta
Duloxetine is the generic name for the brand-name drug Cymbalta. It is a snri antidepressant used to treat depression, neuropathy, fibro. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Duloxetine ranks #31 and is one of the most frequently tested cns/psych medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Duloxetine |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Cymbalta |
| Drug class | SNRI antidepressant |
| Class group | CNS/Psych |
| Common use | depression, neuropathy, fibro |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Duloxetine used for?
SNRI for major depressive disorder; also used for generalized anxiety disorder and certain chronic pain conditions (indication varies by product).
What drug class is Duloxetine?
Duloxetine is a SNRI antidepressant in the CNS/Psych group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Duloxetine
- arrow_rightNausea
- arrow_rightDry mouth
- arrow_rightSomnolence or insomnia
- arrow_rightConstipation
- arrow_rightSweating
Major interactions
- arrow_rightMAO inhibitors (contraindicated) → serotonin syndrome
- arrow_rightOther serotonergic drugs → serotonin syndrome risk
- arrow_rightNSAIDs/anticoagulants ↑ bleeding risk
- arrow_rightStrong CYP1A2 inhibitors (e.g., fluvoxamine, ciprofloxacin) may increase duloxetine levels
Is Duloxetine a controlled substance?
No. Duloxetine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
warning Boxed warning
BOXED WARNING: Antidepressants can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults—monitor closely.
How to remember Duloxetine (PTCE mnemonic)
CYMbalta calms 'C' symptoms — DULOX-etine is the DUAL SNRI for mood + neuropathy/fibro pain. Watch BP, suicidality (boxed), withdrawal.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Duloxetine is an SNRI — used for depression AND nerve pain / fibromyalgia. Like SSRIs, it carries serotonin-syndrome risk in combinations.
Duloxetine FAQ
What is Duloxetine used for?
Duloxetine is used to treat depression, neuropathy, fibro. SNRI for major depressive disorder; also used for generalized anxiety disorder and certain chronic pain conditions (indication varies by product).
What drug class is Duloxetine?
Duloxetine is a SNRI antidepressant (CNS/Psych group).
Is Duloxetine a controlled substance?
No. Duloxetine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the CNS/Psych group
Drill Duloxetine the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).