From the FDA Drug Label
There is a 3 hour delay in absorption and a one-third increase in apparent clearance of duloxetine after an evening dose as compared to a morning dose. The FDA recommends taking duloxetine in the morning, as there is a delay in absorption and an increase in clearance when taken in the evening.
- Key points:
- Delay in absorption: 3 hours when taken in the evening
- Increase in clearance: one-third when taken in the evening 1
From the Research
Cymbalta (duloxetine) can be taken either in the morning or at night, depending on how it affects you individually, with the most recent and highest quality study suggesting that consistency in timing is more important than whether you choose morning or evening dosing 2. When considering the optimal time to take Cymbalta, it's essential to weigh the potential benefits and side effects. If you experience drowsiness as a side effect, taking it at night may be preferable. Conversely, if Cymbalta causes insomnia or activating effects, morning dosing would be better. Some key points to consider when taking Cymbalta include:
- The standard dosing for depression or anxiety typically starts at 30mg once daily for one week, then increases to 60mg once daily 3
- Take Cymbalta at the same time each day with or without food, and swallow the capsule whole without crushing or chewing it
- Consistency in timing is crucial, and if you're unsure which time works best, start with morning dosing and monitor how you feel, then adjust the timing if needed after consulting with your healthcare provider 2
- Cymbalta works by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which helps regulate mood, and finding the optimal dosing time can maximize benefits while minimizing side effects 4 It's also important to note that the efficacy and tolerability of duloxetine in the treatment of anxious versus non-anxious depression have been studied, with results suggesting that duloxetine's efficacy in anxious depression was somewhat superior to non-anxious depression; tolerability was comparable between groups 2.