New Drug for Neuropathic Pain, Cymbalta (duloxetine)

Main Category: Pain / Anesthetics
Also Included In: Neurology / Neuroscience
Article Date: 28 Nov 2004 - 0:00 PDT

email to a friend   printer friendly   view / write opinions   rate article

People with diabetes who experience the pain associated with nerve damage (diabetic peripheral neuropathy) have a new treatment option--the first FDA-approved drug for managing the burning, tingling, and numbing sensations in the feet, legs, or hands that mark this condition.

The drug, Cymbalta (duloxetine), was recently approved for treating the condition, the most common complication of diabetes.

In clinical trials, people treated with Cymbalta reported less pain compared to those given an inactive substance (placebo). Fifty-eight percent of people treated with Cymbalta reported at least a 30 percent sustained reduction of pain. In comparison, 34 percent of people treated with a placebo reported sustained pain reduction. The most commonly reported side effects were nausea, dry mouth, constipation, and diarrhea. In some cases, patients experienced dizziness and hot flashes.

Cymbalta is manufactured by Eli Lilly and Company of Indianapolis.
http://www.diabetesnews.com/