Antidepressant (SNRI, Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor)
Last reviewed July 2026
Who is this for?
Duloxetine is a medicine that works by balancing certain chemicals in the brain (serotonin and norepinephrine) to improve mood, reduce pain signals, and help with anxiety. It is known in Nigeria under the brand name Henka 60.
Inhibits the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine at presynaptic nerve terminals, increasing their synaptic concentrations and enhancing monoaminergic neurotransmission in the central nervous system. This mechanism alleviates depressive and anxiety symptoms while modulating pain perception pathways involved in neuropathic and chronic pain conditions.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take two capsules at once to make up for a missed dose.
Do not stop taking duloxetine suddenly on your own, as stopping abruptly can cause dizziness, headache, nausea, and irritability, so your doctor must reduce the dose gradually. Only buy from a licensed pharmacy; avoid roadside sellers or unverified online stores. Do not share this medicine with anyone else even if they have similar symptoms, as it is a prescription drug that must be monitored by a doctor.
Do not take with tramadol or other strong painkillers as it can cause a dangerous condition called serotonin syndrome (high fever, confusion, shaking). Avoid alcohol completely, as combining it with duloxetine can seriously damage your liver. Do not use with blood-thinning medicines like warfarin without your doctor's knowledge as it increases bleeding risk.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Duloxetine with your other drugs?
Duloxetine is not considered safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your doctor before using it if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or nursing a baby.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat. Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid keeping it near windows or in your car. Keep it in its original container and far away from children.
For information only: not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under, especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.