Drug interactions between chloroquine and Cymbalta

MONITOR: Coadministration with inhibitors of CYP450 2D6 may increase the plasma concentrations of duloxetine, which is partially metabolized by the isoenzyme. According to the product labeling, concomitant use of duloxetine (40 mg once daily) with paroxetine (20 mg once daily) resulted in an approximately 60% increase in duloxetine systemic exposure (AUC), and greater degrees of inhibition are expected with higher dosages of paroxetine. Although not studied, a similar interaction should be anticipated with other potent CYP450 2D6 inhibitors such as fluoxetine or quinidine. Theoretically, high plasma levels of duloxetine may increase the risk of serious adverse effects such as hypertension, hypertensive crisis, increased heart rate, orthostatic hypotension, syncope, and serotonin syndrome. Serotonin syndrome is a rare but serious and potentially fatal condition thought to result from hyperstimulation of brainstem 5-HT1A and 2A receptors. Symptoms may include mental status changes such as irritability, altered consciousness, confusion, hallucinations, and coma; autonomic dysfunction such as tachycardia, hyperthermia, diaphoresis, shivering, blood pressure lability, and mydriasis; neuromuscular abnormalities such as hyperreflexia, myoclonus, tremor, and ataxia; and gastrointestinal symptoms such as abdominal cramping, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

MANAGEMENT: Caution is advised if duloxetine is used in combination with CYP450 2D6 inhibitors, particularly potent ones like paroxetine, fluoxetine, or quinidine. Pharmacologic response to duloxetine should be monitored more closely whenever a CYP450 2D6 inhibitor is added to or withdrawn from therapy, and the dosage adjusted as necessary.