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Facial flushing associated with duloxetine use.
Danielle C Ezzo1, Priti N Patel
1College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions, St. John's University, 8000 Utopia Parkway, Queens, NY 11439, USA. ezzod@stjohns.edu
Summary
This case study reports facial flushing in a patient using duloxetine for migraine prevention. Improper dosing of duloxetine may be linked to this adverse event.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neurology
Background:
- Duloxetine is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor used for various conditions, including migraine prophylaxis.
- Standard migraine treatments were ineffective for a 43-year-old woman, leading to the prescription of duloxetine.
Observation:
- The patient self-adjusted her duloxetine dosage by opening capsules and consuming the contents directly, leading to a reduced dose.
- Following dosage adjustment, she experienced facial flushing, hot flashes, and increased facial vascular prominence.
- These symptoms resolved after discontinuing duloxetine, suggesting a potential drug-induced effect.
Findings:
- Facial flushing occurred 1-2 hours after administering the adjusted duloxetine dose and persisted for a week after drug cessation.
- The patient's migraines improved with the self-adjusted duloxetine dosage.
- Structural causes for migraines were ruled out via imaging.
Implications:
- This case highlights a potential adverse reaction (facial flushing) associated with duloxetine, possibly related to its administration method.
- It underscores the importance of correct medication administration and patient education.
- Further investigation into duloxetine's side effect profile and administration techniques may be warranted.
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