Duloxetine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) . It is prescribed for major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Duloxetine also has approval for use in osteoarthiritis and musculoskeletal pain. Duloxetine is as effective as venlafaxine in the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder, excessive worry and tension that disrupts daily life and lasts for 6 months or longer, with demonstrated improvements in function and quality of life for sufferers. Long-term use of duloxetine prevents relapse of generalized anxiety disorder. The antidepressant properties of duloxetine are due to blocking the reuptake of serotonin and possibly also noradrenalin within the central nervous system. Major depressive disorder is believed to be due in part to an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines within the central nervous system.
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