Duloxetine is a potent and selective inhibitor of serotonin and noradrenaline transporters and a weak inhibitor of dopamine transporters. Duloxetine is highly protein bound and is widely distributed throughout tissues. It is rapidly and extensively metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 1A2 and 2D6 and its numerous metabolites which are inactive are mainly excreted in the urine. It is more effective for recurrent/refractory type of TN. Duloxetine holds the promise in complete remission of TN in future. So in coming days it may be a drug of choice for medical management of TN. This article is an insight in chemical features, pharmacodynamics, pathophysiology and therapeutics of Duloxetine.
Keywords: Antidepressants, Serotonin uptake inhibitors, Trigeminal Neuralgia, Major depressive disorders