Duloxetine in the treatment of major depression and other psychiatric disorders.

Duloxetine is a new antidepressant agent approved for use in major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain. It potently inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine in the synaptic cleft. This dual mechanism of action is thought to provide a favorable pharmacological profile with regards to efficacy, onset of action and analgesic properties. Pilot studies on the efficacy of duloxetine in the treatment of dysthymia and other psychiatric disorders have also shown promising results. Duloxetine appears well tolerated and its safety profile is similar to that of the selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors.