Duloxetine is a commonly prescribed medicine in the UK, used for depression & anxiety. If you have just been prescribed duloxetine, this page explains what it is, the brands and strengths it comes in, how to take it, and how to have it dispensed and delivered free on the NHS with PillSorted.
This content has been medically reviewed and approved by Zeinab Ardeshir (GPhC 2075730), Superintendent Pharmacist at PillSorted (GPhC-registered online pharmacy 9011258). Last reviewed: 14 July 2026.
What is duloxetine?
Duloxetine is an SNRI used for depression and anxiety, and also for nerve pain. It usually takes a few weeks to build its full effect.
Brands and strengths
Duloxetine is the name of the active ingredient. In the UK it is sold as generic duloxetine and under brand names including Cymbalta, Dutor and Duciltia — all contain the same active ingredient and work the same way. Common strengths:
- Duloxetine 30 mg tablets
- Duloxetine 60 mg tablets
- UK brands: Cymbalta, Dutor and Duciltia
What duloxetine is used for
- Depression
- Generalised anxiety disorder
- Nerve (neuropathic) pain
How to take duloxetine
Usually taken once a day, with or without food. Allow several weeks for the full effect and do not stop suddenly without advice. Always follow your prescriber’s instructions (BNF).
Side effects
Common effects include feeling sick, dry mouth, headache and drowsiness. Seek urgent help if your mood worsens or you have thoughts of self-harm. This is not a full list — see the patient information leaflet (BNF).
Duloxetine: frequently asked questions
Yes. Cymbalta is the original brand name for duloxetine; the generic is the same active ingredient.
As well as low mood and anxiety, duloxetine is used for nerve pain such as diabetic neuropathy.
Yes. If you have an NHS prescription for duloxetine, you can nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy and we will dispense and deliver it to your door for free.
Get your duloxetine delivered free on the NHS
If you have an NHS prescription for duloxetine, PillSorted dispenses and delivers it to your door — completely free. Nominate PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy once, and we take care of your repeat prescriptions from then on.
What you get
- Free delivery, every time — your medicine posted to your door, always free.
- Your whole family, one account — manage everyone’s prescriptions in one place.
- Real pharmacists, every prescription — every order checked by our UK pharmacist team.
How it works
- Choose PillSorted as your NHS pharmacy
- We collect your prescription from your GP
- Your medication is delivered free to your door
Sources: NICE; BNF — Duloxetine.
This page is for general information only and is not a substitute for advice from your GP or pharmacist. Always take your medicine exactly as prescribed. For advice about your own health, consult a clinician.