Response to Cymbalta in Treatment of Anxiety

Major depressive disorder (MDD) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) are two common disorders that can be treated successfully with antidepressants. However, high inter-individual variations of improvement in response to treatment have been observed. Genetic factors seem to be one variable influencing treatment outcome.1

Cymbalta (Duloxetine) is used to treat depression and generalized anxiety disorder. It is also used to treat pain and tingling caused by diabetic neuropathy and fibromyalgia.

A small study1 examined genetic associations with duloxetine response in generalized anxiety disorder. Follow-up analysis explored associations of SNPs in the DRD3 gene with change in Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression-Anxiety Subscale in a 6-week study in duloxetine-treated patients with major depressive disorder. The DRD3 gene encodes a receptor receptor localised to the limbic areas of the brain, which are associated with cognitive, emotional, and endocrine functions.

Related to:
Duloxetine, DRD3, Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD),