Drizalma Sprinkle (Duloxetine)

Description

Drizalma Sprinkle (duloxetine delayed-release) is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) used to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults, generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults and pediatric patients (7 to 17 years old), diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP) in adults, and chronic musculoskeletal pain in adults.

Directions

Drizalma Sprinkle is available in delayed-release capsules of 20 mg, 30 mg, 40 mg, and 60 mg strengths. Drizalma Sprinkle may be taken with or without food. Avoid crushing or chewing the capsule. The capsule may be swallowed whole or opened to be sprinkled over applesauce or given by nasogastric tube.

If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. Do not take two doses at once.

Dosing for Drizalma Sprinkle

Ingredients

The active ingredient in Drizalma Sprinkle capsules is duloxetine hydrochloride. 

Contraindications

You should not take monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) for treating psychiatric problems with Drizalma Sprinkle or within 5 days of discontinuing Drizalma Sprinkle. 

You should not take Drizalma Sprinkle within 2 weeks of discontinuing an MAOI for the treatment of psychiatric problems. 

You should not begin treatment with Drizalma Sprinkle if you are being treated with linezolid or intravenous methylene blue.

Cautions

• Discuss your allergies with your doctor.
• Discuss all the medications you take with your doctor. These include prescription, over-the-counter, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
• Let your doctor know if you have liver issues. Drizalma Sprinkle may cause liver failure that can be fatal. Contact your doctor immediately if you develop yellowing of your eyes or skin or any other symptoms of liver problems.
• Let your doctor know if you drink alcohol or have chronic liver disease.
• Let your doctor know if you have blood pressure problems. Drizalma Sprinkle may cause a sudden drop in your blood pressure when standing from sitting or lying down.
• The risk for serotonin syndrome is increased with the use of Drizalma Sprinkle by itself or with concomitant use of Drizalma Sprinkle and other serotonergic medications (SSRI, SNRI, triptans). Stop taking Drizalma Sprinkle and seek medical attention immediately if you experience agitation, confusion, dilated pupils, diarrhea, headache, excessive sweating, shivering, rapid heart rate, restlessness, trouble sleeping, problems with your blood pressure problems, muscle twitches, or muscle rigidity. 
• Your risk for bleeding may be increased while taking Drizalma Sprinkle, especially if you take NSAIDs, aspirin, warfarin, or other antiplatelets or anticoagulants. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience signs of bleeding such as bleeding from your gums, bleeding from your nose, or blood in your stool.
• Severe skin reactions can occur with the use of Drizalma Sprinkle. Stop taking Drizalma Sprinkle and seek medical care immediately if you develop blisters, peeling rash, or mucosal erosions.
• Do not suddenly stop taking Drizalma Sprinkle due to the risk of discontinuation syndrome. 
• If you have bipolar disorder, use caution while taking Drizalma Sprinkle. 
• Let your doctor know if you have glaucoma or other eye problems.
• Let your doctor know if you have seizures.
• Let your doctor know if you have blood pressure problems.
• Drizalma Sprinkle can cause low sodium levels. Let your doctor know immediately if you have nausea, vomiting, headache, confusion, drowsiness, weakness, tiredness, muscle weakness, muscle spasms or cramps, restlessness, irritability, or seizures. 
• Let your doctor know if you have diabetes.

Side Effects

Let your doctor know if you develop any side effects while taking Drizalma Sprinkle. The most common side effects include dry mouth, nausea, drowsiness, constipation, decreased appetite, and excessive sweating. 

References:

1. Drizalma Sprinkle Prescribing Information. Cranbury, NJ: Sun Pharmaceutical Industries, Inc.; 2019.
2. Serotonin syndrome. Mayo Clinic. January 22, 2022. Accessed January 27, 2022.
3. Hyponatremia. Mayo Clinic. May 23, 2020. Accessed January 27, 2022.

About Dr. Savannah Muncy (Page Author)

Dr. Muncy (PharmD) studied science and education as an undergraduate before attending the Appalachian College of Pharmacy where she completed her PharmD in three years. She is currently using her pharmacy and healthcare expertise to write medical content for clients all around the world. She is focused on delivering the most current, accurate, and engaging information to healthcare professionals and patients. Read More....