Duloxetine is a type of what kind of inhibitor?

Duloxetine is categorized as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). This classification is based on its pharmacological action, where it increases the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain by inhibiting their reuptake into the presynaptic neuron. SNRIs, like duloxetine, are often used in the treatment of major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder, among other conditions.

While duloxetine does interact with CYP2D6 as a substrate and may inhibit this enzyme to some extent, its primary classification highlights its role in neurotransmitter modulation. Understanding this classification is fundamental for distinguishing duloxetine from other antidepressant types, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or other compounds that primarily affect different neurotransmitter systems. Therefore, while the reference to CYP2D6 regulation is relevant, it does not define duloxetine’s primary mechanism of action as an SNRI.