Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

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Yentreve 20mg hard gastro-resistant capsules

⚠ This medicine appears to have been discontinued

The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.

If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Duloxetine hydrochloride may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.

Active substance: Duloxetine hydrochloride

Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Official leaflet: Read the PIL on emc

What it is and what it is used for

for

YENTREVE contains the active substance duloxetine. YENTREVE increases the levels of serotonin and noradrenaline in the nervous system. YENTREVE is a medicine to be taken by mouth to treat Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI) in women. Stress urinary incontinence is a medical condition in which patients have accidental loss or leakage of urine during physical exertion or activities such as laughing, coughing, sneezing, lifting, or exercise. YENTREVE is believed to work by increasing the strength of the muscle that holds back urine when you laugh, sneeze, or perform physical activities. The efficacy of YENTREVE is reinforced when combined with a training program called Pelvic Floor Muscle Training (PFMT). 2.

What you need to know before you take it

e YENTREVE

DO NOT take YENTREVE if you are allergic to duloxetine or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6) have liver disease have severe kidney disease are taking or have taken within the last 14 days, another medicine known as a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) (see 'Other medicines and YENTREVE') are taking fluvoxamine which is usually used to treat depression, ciprofloxacin or enoxacin which are used to treat some infections Talk to your doctor if you have high blood pressure or heart disease. Your doctor will tell you if you should be taking YENTREVE.

Warnings and Precautions The following are reasons why YENTREVE may not be suitable for you. Talk to your doctor before you take Yentreve if you:

  • are taking medicines to treat depression (see 'Other medicines and YENTREVE')
  • are taking St. John's Wort, a herbal treatment (Hypericum perforatum)
  • have kidney disease
  • have had seizures (fits)
  • have had mania
  • suffer from bipolar disorder
  • have eye problems, such as certain kinds of glaucoma (increased pressure in the eye) have a history of bleeding disorders (tendency to develop bruises), especially if you are pregnant (see 'Pregnancy and breast-feeding') are at risk of low sodium levels (for example if you are taking diuretics, especially if you are elderly)
  • are currently being treated with another medicine which may cause liver damage.
  • are taking other medicines containing duloxetine (see 'Other medicines and YENTREVE') YENTREVE may cause a sensation of restlessness or an inability to sit or stand still. You should tell your doctor if this happens to you. You should also contact your doctor: If you experience signs and symptoms of restlessness, hallucinations, loss of coordination, fast heart beat, increased body temperature, fast changes in blood pressure, overactive reflexes, diarrhoea, coma, nausea, vomiting, as you might be suffering a serotonin syndrome. In its most severe form, serotonin syndrome can resemble Neuroleptic Malignant Syndrome (NMS). Signs and symptoms of NMS may include a combination of fever, fast heart beat, sweating, severe muscle stiffness, confusion, increased muscle enzymes (determined by a blood test). Medicines like Yentreve (so called SSRIs/SNRIs) may cause symptoms of sexual dysfunction (see section 4). In some cases, these symptoms have continued after stopping treatment. Thoughts of suicide and worsening of depression or anxiety disorder Although YENTREVE is not indicated for the treatment of depression, its active ingredient (duloxetine) is used as an antidepressant medicine. If you are depressed and/or have anxiety disorders you can sometimes have thoughts of harming or killing yourself. These may be increased when first starting antidepressants, since these medicines all take time to work, usually about two weeks but sometimes longer. You may be more likely to think like this if you: have previously had thoughts about killing or harming yourself are a young adult. Information from clinical trials has shown an increased risk of suicidal behaviour in adults aged less than 25 years with psychiatric conditions who were treated with an antidepressant If you have thoughts of harming or killing yourself at any time, contact your doctor or go to a hospital straight away. You may find it helpful to tell a relative or close friend that you are depressed or have an anxiety disorder, and ask them to read this leaflet. You might ask them to tell you if they think your depression or anxiety is getting worse, or if they are worried about changes in your behaviour. Children and adolescents under 18 years of age YENTREVE should not be used for children and adolescents under 18 years. Also, you should know that patients under 18 have an increased risk of side-effects such as suicide attempt, suicidal thoughts

and hostility (predominantly aggression, oppositional behaviour and anger) when they take this class of medicines. Also, the long-term safety effects concerning growth, maturation, and cognitive and behavioural development of YENTREVE in this age group have not yet been demonstrated. Other medicines and YENTREVE Please tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines, including medicines obtained without a prescription. The main ingredient of YENTREVE, duloxetine, is used in other medicines for other conditions: • diabetic neuropathic pain, depression, anxiety and urinary incontinence Using more than one of these medicines at the same time should be avoided. Check with your doctor if you are already taking other medicines containing duloxetine. Your doctor should decide whether you can take YENTREVE with other medicines. Do not start or stop taking any medicines, including those bought without a prescription and herbal remedies, before checking with your doctor. You should also tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following: Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): You should not take YENTREVE if you are taking or have recently taken (within the last 14 days) an antidepressant medicine called a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). Examples of MAOIs include moclobemide (an antidepressant) and linezolid (an antibiotic). Taking a MAOI together with many prescription medicines, including YENTREVE, can cause serious or even life-threatening side effects. You must wait at least 14 days after you have stopped taking an MAOI before you can take YENTREVE. Also, you need to wait at least 5 days after you stop taking YENTREVE before you take a MAOI. Medicines that cause sleepiness: These include medicines prescribed by your doctor including benzodiazepines, strong painkillers, antipsychotics, phenobarbital and sedative antihistamines. Medicines that increase the level of serotonin: Triptans, tramadol, tryptophan, SSRIs (such as paroxetine and fluoxetine), SNRIs (such as venlafaxine), tricyclic antidepressants (such as clomipramine, amitriptyline), pethidine, St John's Wort and MAOIs (such as moclobemide and linezolid). These medicines increase the risk of side effects; if you get any unusual symptom taking any of these medicines together with YENTREVE, you should see your doctor. Oral anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents: Medicines which thin the blood or prevent the blood from clotting. These medicines might increase the risk of bleeding. YENTREVE with food, drink and alcohol YENTREVE may be taken with or without food. You should take extra care if you drink alcohol while taking YENTREVE. Pregnancy and breast-feeding If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine. • Tell your doctor if you become pregnant, or you are trying to become pregnant, while you are taking YENTREVE. You should use YENTREVE only after discussing the potential benefits and any potential risks to your unborn child with your doctor. •

Make sure your midwife and/or doctor knows you are on YENTREVE. When taken during pregnancy, similar drugs (SSRIs) may increase the risk of a serious condition in babies, called persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN), making the baby breathe faster and appear bluish. These symptoms usually begin during the first 24 hours after the baby is born. If

this happens to your baby you should contact your midwife and/or doctor immediately. •

If you take YENTREVE near the end of your pregnancy, your baby might have some symptoms when it is born. These usually begin at birth or within a few days of your baby being born. These symptoms may include floppy muscles, trembling, jitteriness, not feeding properly, trouble with breathing and fits. If your baby has any of these symptoms when it is born, or you are concerned about your baby's health, contact your doctor or midwife who will be able to advise you.

•

If you take YENTREVE near the end of your pregnancy there is an increased risk of excessive vaginal bleeding shortly after birth, especially if you have a history of bleeding disorders. Your doctor or midwife should be aware that you are taking duloxetine so they can advise you.

•

Available data from the use of YENTREVE during the first three months of pregnancy do not show an increased risk of overall birth defects in general in the child. If YENTREVE is taken during the second half of pregnancy, there may be an increased risk that the infant will be born early (6 additional premature infants for every 100 women who take YENTREVE in the second half of pregnancy), mostly between weeks 35 and 36 of pregnancy.

•

Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding. The use of YENTREVE while breastfeeding is not recommended. You should ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice.

Driving and using machines YENTREVE may make you feel sleepy or dizzy. Do not drive or use any tools or machines until you know how YENTREVE affects you. YENTREVE contains sucrose YENTREVE contains sucrose. If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicinal product. YENTREVE contains sodium This medicine contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per capsule, that is to say essentially 'sodium-free'. 3.

How to take it

YENTREVE

Always take this medicine exactly as your doctor or pharmacist has told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure. YENTREVE is for oral use. You should swallow your capsule whole with a drink of water. The recommended dose of YENTREVE is 40 mg twice a day (in the morning and late afternoon/evening). Your doctor may decide to start your treatment with 20 mg twice a day for two weeks before increasing the dose to 40 mg twice a day. To help you remember to take YENTREVE, you may find it easier to take it at the same times every day. Do not stop taking YENTREVE, or change your dose, without talking to your doctor. Treating your disorder properly is important to help you get better. If it is not treated, your condition may not go away and may become more serious and difficult to treat.

If you take more YENTREVE than you should Call your doctor or pharmacist immediately if you take more than the amount of YENTREVE prescribed by your doctor. Symptoms of overdose include sleepiness, coma, serotonin syndrome (a rare reaction which may cause feelings of great happiness, drowsiness, clumsiness, restlessness, feeling of being drunk, fever, sweating or rigid muscles), fits, vomiting and fast heart rate. If you forget to take YENTREVE If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only a single dose as usual. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten dose. Do not take more than the daily amount of YENTREVE that has been prescribed for you in one day. If you stop taking YENTREVE DO NOT stop taking your capsules without the advice of your doctor even if you feel better. If your doctor thinks that you no longer need YENTREVE he or she will ask you to reduce your dose over 2 weeks. Some patients, who suddenly stop taking YENTREVE after more than 1 week of therapy, have had symptoms such as: • dizziness, tingling feelings like pins and needles or electric shock-like feelings (particularly in the head), sleep disturbances (vivid dreams, nightmares, inability to sleep), fatigue, sleepiness, feeling restless or agitated, feeling anxious, feeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting), shaking (tremor), headaches, muscle pain, feeling irritable, diarrhoea, excessive sweating or vertigo. These symptoms are usually not serious and disappear within a few days, but if you have symptoms that are troublesome you should ask your doctor for advice. If you have further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist. 4.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. These effects are normally mild to moderate and often disappear after a short time. Very common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people) • feeling sick (nausea), dry mouth, constipation • fatigue Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people) • lack of appetite • trouble sleeping, feeling agitated, less sex drive, anxiety, difficulty sleeping • headache, dizziness, feeling sluggish, feeling sleepy, tremor, numbness, including numbness, pricking or tingling of the skin • blurred eyesight • feeling of dizziness or "spinning" (vertigo) • increased blood pressure, flushing • diarrhoea, stomach pain, being sick (vomiting), heartburn or indigestion • increased sweating • weakness, shivering Uncommon side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people) • throat inflammation that causes a hoarse voice • allergic reactions

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

decreased thyroid gland activity which can cause tiredness or weight gain dehydration grinding or clenching the teeth, feeling disorientated, lack of motivation, difficulty or failure to experience orgasm, unusual dreams feeling nervous, difficulty concentrating, changes in sense of taste, poor sleep quality large pupils (the dark centre of the eye), problems with eyesight, eyes feel dry tinnitus (hearing sound in the ear when there is no external sound), ear pain feeling the heart pumping in the chest, fast and/or irregular heart beat fainting increased yawning vomiting blood, or black tarry stools (faeces), gastroenteritis, inflammation of the mouth, burping, difficulty swallowing, breaking wind, bad breath inflammation of the liver that may cause abdominal pain and yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (itchy) rash, night sweats, hives, cold sweats, increased tendency to bruise muscle pain, muscle tightness, muscle spasm, contraction of the jaw muscle difficulty to start urinating, painful urination, needing to pass urine during the night, frequent urination, abnormal urine odour abnormal vaginal bleeding, menopausal symptoms chest pain, feeling cold, thirst, feeling hot weight loss, weight gain Yentreve may cause effects that you may not be aware of, such as increases in liver enzymes or blood levels of potassium, creatine phosphokinase, sugar, or cholesterol

Rare side effects (may affect up to 1 in 1000 people) • serious allergic reaction which causes difficulty in breathing or dizziness with swollen tongue or lips • low levels of sodium in the blood (mostly in elderly people; the symptoms may include feeling dizzy, weak, confused, sleepy or very tired, or feeling or being sick, more serious symptoms are fainting, fits or falls), syndrome of inappropriate secretion of anti-diuretic hormone (SIADH) • suicidal behaviour, suicidal thoughts, mania (over activity, racing thoughts and decreased need for sleep), hallucinations, aggression and anger • "Serotonin syndrome" (a rare reaction which may cause feelings of great happiness, drowsiness, clumsiness, restlessness, feeling of being drunk, fever, sweating or rigid muscles), fits, sudden involuntary jerks or twitches of the muscles, sensation of restlessness or an inability to sit or stand still, difficulty controlling movement e.g. lack of coordination or involuntary movements of the muscles, restless legs syndrome • increased pressure in the eye (glaucoma) • dizziness, lightheadedness or fainting on standing up, cold fingers and/or toes • throat tightness, nose bleeds • coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath which may be accompanied by a high temperature • passing bright red blood in your stools, inflammation of the large intestine (leading to diarrhoea) • liver failure, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes (jaundice) • Stevens-Johnson syndrome (serious illness with blistering of the skin, mouth, eyes and genitals), serious allergic reaction which causes swelling of the face or throat (angioedema), sensitivity to sunlight • muscle twitching • difficulty or inability to pass urine, needing to pass more urine than normal, having a decreased urine flow • abnormal periods, including heavy, painful, irregular or prolonged periods, unusually light or missed periods, abnormal production of breast milk • excessive vaginal bleeding shortly after birth (postpartum haemorrhage)

•

falls (mostly in elderly people), abnormal gait

Very rare side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people) • inflammation of the blood vessels in the skin (cutaneous vasculitis) Frequency not known (cannot be estimated from the available data) • signs and symptoms of a condition called "stress cardiomyopathy" which may include chest pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting, irregular heartbeat. Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor of pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via the Yellow Card Scheme, Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine. 5.

How to store it

YENTREVE

Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the carton. Store in the original package to protect from moisture. Do not store above 30°C. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away of medicines you no longer use. These measures will help to protect the environment. 6.

Contents of the pack and other information

What YENTREVE contains The active substance is duloxetine. Each capsule contains 20 or 40 mg of duloxetine (as hydrochloride). The other ingredients are: Capsule content: hypromellose, hypromellose acetate succinate, sucrose, sugar spheres, talc, titanium dioxide (E171), triethyl citrate (See end of section 2 for further information on sucrose). Capsule shell: gelatin, sodium lauryl sulfate, titanium dioxide (E171), indigo carmine (E132), red iron oxide and yellow iron oxide, edible black ink. Edible ink: synthetic black iron oxide (E172), propylene glycol, shellac. What YENTREVE looks like and contents of the pack YENTREVE is a hard gastro-resistant capsule. Each capsule of YENTREVE contains pellets of duloxetine hydrochloride with a covering to protect them from stomach acid. YENTREVE is available in 2 strengths: 20 and 40 mg. The 40 mg capsules are orange and blue and are printed with '40 mg' and the code '9545'. The 20 mg capsules are blue and are printed with '20 mg' and the code '9544'. YENTREVE 40 mg is available in packs of 28, 56, 98, 140 and 196 (2 x 98) capsules. YENTREVE 20 mg is available in packs of 28, 56 and 98 capsules. Not all pack sizes may be marketed.

Marketing Authorisation Holder and Manufacturer Marketing Authorisation Holder: Eli Lilly Nederland B.V., Papendorpseweg 83, 3528 BJ Utrecht, The Netherlands. Manufacturer: Lilly S.A., Avda. De la Industria, 30, 28108 Alcobendas, Madrid, Spain. For any information about this medicine, please contact the local representative of the Marketing Authorisation Holder: United Kingdom Eli Lilly and Company Limited Tel: + 44-(0) 1256 315000 This leaflet was last revised in September 2024.

Frequently asked questions about Yentreve 20mg hard gastro-resistant capsules

How do I take Yentreve 20mg hard gastro-resistant capsules?

Yentreve 20mg hard gastro-resistant capsules comes as capsule containing 20mg. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.

What is the active substance in Yentreve 20mg hard gastro-resistant capsules?

The active substance in Yentreve 20mg hard gastro-resistant capsules is duloxetine hydrochloride.

Are there equivalent medicines to Yentreve 20mg hard gastro-resistant capsules?

Medicines with the same active substance, strength and form include: Duloxetine 20 mg gastro-resistant capsules, hard, Duloxetine 20mg gastro-resistant capsules, Duloxetine Milpharm 20 mg gastro-resistant capsules, hard. In total there are 4 equivalent products. They are interchangeable only if your prescriber or pharmacist says so.

Where does this information come from?

This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Yentreve 20mg hard gastro-resistant capsules, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.

Can I get Yentreve 20mg hard gastro-resistant capsules without a prescription?

Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.

About this leaflet

The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.

Medical disclaimer: This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you are unwell, call NHS 111; in an emergency, call 999.

Medicines with the same active substance: Duloxetine hydrochloride (26 medicines)
See every medicine containing this substance, or browse the full A–Z of active substances.
⚕For healthcare professionals — Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)Full SmPC: dosage, interactions, contraindications, warnings+
Technical information intended for healthcare professionals (doctors and pharmacists). The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) is the official document approved by the MHRA/EMA. It does not replace the patient leaflet or a doctor’s advice.

4.1. Therapeutic indications

YENTREVE is indicated for women for the treatment of moderate to severe Stress Urinary Incontinence (SUI).

YENTREVE is indicated in adults.

For further information see section 5.1.

4.2. Posology and method of administration

Posology

The recommended dose of YENTREVE is 40 mg twice daily, without regard to meals. After 2-4 weeks of treatment, patients should be re-assessed in order to evaluate the benefit and tolerability of the therapy. Some patients may benefit from starting treatment at a dose of 20 mg twice daily for two weeks before increasing to the recommended dose of 40 mg twice daily. Dose escalation may decrease, though not eliminate, the risk of nausea and dizziness.

However, limited data are available to support the efficacy of YENTREVE 20 mg twice daily.

The efficacy of YENTREVE has not been evaluated for longer than 3 months in placebo-controlled studies. The benefit of treatment should be re-assessed at regular intervals.

Combining YENTREVE with a pelvic floor muscle training (PFMT) programme may be more effective than either treatment alone. It is recommended that consideration be given to concomitant PFMT.

Hepatic impairment

YENTREVE must not be used in women with liver disease resulting in hepatic impairment (see sections 4.3 and 5.2).

Renal impairment

No dosage adjustment is necessary for patients with mild or moderate renal dysfunction (creatinine clearance 30 to 80 ml/min). YENTREVE must not be used in patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 ml/min; see section 4.3).

Paediatric population

The safety and efficacy of duloxetine for the treatment of stress urinary incontinence has not been studied. No data are available.

Special populations

Elderly

Caution should be exercised when treating the elderly.

Discontinuation of treatment

Abrupt discontinuation should be avoided. When stopping treatment with YENTREVE the dose should be gradually reduced over a period of at least one to two weeks in order to reduce the risk of withdrawal reactions (see sections 4.4 and 4.8). If intolerable symptoms occur following a decrease in the dose or upon discontinuation of treatment, then resuming the previously prescribed dose may be considered. Subsequently, the physician may continue decreasing the dose, but at a more gradual rate.

Method of administration

For oral use.

4.3. Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to the active substance or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.

Liver disease resulting in hepatic impairment (see section 5.2).

YENTREVE should not be used in combination with nonselective, irreversible monoamine oxidase inhibitors - MAOIs (see section 4.5).

YENTREVE should not be used in combination with CYP1A2 inhibitors, like fluvoxamine, ciprofloxacin or enoxacin since the combination results in elevated plasma concentrations of duloxetine (see section 4.5).

Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 ml/min) (see section 4.4).

The initiation of treatment with YENTREVE is contraindicated in patients with uncontrolled hypertension that could expose patients to a potential risk of hypertensive crisis (see sections 4.4 and 4.8).

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

Mania and seizures

YENTREVE should be used with caution in patients with a history of mania or a diagnosis of bipolar disorder, and/or seizures.

Serotonin syndrome/ Neuroleptic malignant syndrome

As with other serotonergic agents, serotonin syndrome or neuroleptic malignant syndrome (NMS), a potentially life-threatening condition, may occur with duloxetine treatment, particularly with concomitant use of other serotonergic agents (including SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclic antidepressants or triptans), with agents that impair metabolism of serotonin such as MAOIs, or with antipsychotics or other dopamine antagonists that may affect the serotonergic neurotransmitter systems (see sections 4.3 and 4.5).

Serotonin syndrome symptoms may include mental status changes (e.g., agitation, hallucinations, coma), autonomic instability (e.g., tachycardia, labile blood pressure, hyperthermia), neuromuscular aberrations (e.g. hyperreflexia, incoordination) and/or gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea). Serotonin syndrome in its most severe form can resemble NMS, which includes hyperthermia, muscle rigidity, elevated serum creatine kinase levels, autonomic instability with possible rapid fluctuation of vital signs and mental status changes.

If concomitant treatment with duloxetine and other serotonergic/neuroleptic agents that may affect the serotonergic/neuroleptic and/or dopaminergic neurotransmitter systems in clinically warranted, careful observation of the patient is advised, particularly during treatment initiation and dose increases.

St John's wort

Adverse reactions may be more common during concomitant use of YENTREVE and herbal preparations containing St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum).

Mydriasis

Mydriasis has been reported in association with duloxetine, therefore, caution should be used when prescribing duloxetine in patients with increased intraocular pressure, or those at risk of acute narrow-angle glaucoma.

Blood pressure and heart rate

Duloxetine has been associated with an increase in blood pressure and clinically significant hypertension in some patients. This may be due to the noradrenergic effect of duloxetine. Cases of hypertensive crisis have been reported with duloxetine, especially in patients with pre-existing hypertension. Therefore, in patients with known hypertension and/or other cardiac disease, blood pressure monitoring is recommended, especially during the first month of treatment. Duloxetine should be used with caution in patients whose conditions could be compromised by an increased heart rate or by an increase in blood pressure. Caution should also be exercised when duloxetine is used with medicinal products that may impair its metabolism (see section 4.5). For patients who experience a sustained increase in blood pressure while receiving duloxetine either dose reduction or gradual discontinuation should be considered (see section 4.8). In patients with uncontrolled hypertension duloxetine should not be initiated (see section 4.3).

Renal impairment

Increased plasma concentrations of duloxetine occur in patients with severe renal impairment on haemodialysis (creatinine clearance <30 ml/min). For patients with severe renal impairment, see section 4.3. See section 4.2 for information on patients with mild or moderate renal dysfunction.

Haemorrhage

There have been reports of bleeding abnormalities, such as ecchymoses, purpura and gastrointestinal haemorrhage with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin/noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), including duloxetine. Duloxetine may increase the risk of postpartum haemorrhage (see section 4.6). Caution is advised in patients taking anticoagulants and/or medicinal products known to affect platelet function (e.g., NSAIDs or acetylsalicylic acid (ASA)), and in patients with known bleeding tendencies.

Discontinuation of treatment

Withdrawal symptoms when treatment is discontinued are common, particularly if discontinuation is abrupt (see section 4.8). In a clinical trial, adverse events seen on abrupt treatment discontinuation occurred in approximately 44% of patients treated with YENTREVE and 24% of patients taking placebo.

The risk of withdrawal symptoms seen with SSRI's and SNRI's may be dependent on several factors, including the duration and dose of therapy and the rate of dose reduction. The most commonly reported reactions are listed in section 4.8. Generally these symptoms are mild to moderate however, in some patients they may be severe in intensity. They usually occur within the first few days of discontinuing treatment, but there have been very rare reports of such symptoms in patients who have inadvertently missed a dose. Generally these symptoms are self-limiting and usually resolve within 2 weeks, though in some individuals they may be prolonged (2-3 months or more). It is therefore advised that duloxetine should be gradually tapered when discontinuing treatment over a period of no less than 2 weeks, according to the patient's needs (see section 4.2).

Hyponatraemia

Hyponatraemia has been reported when administering YENTREVE, including cases with serum sodium lower than 110 mmol/l. Hyponatraemia may be due to a syndrome of inappropriate anti-diuretic hormone secretion (SIADH). The majority of cases of hyponatraemia were reported in the elderly, especially when coupled with a recent history of, or condition pre-disposing to, altered fluid balance. Caution is required in patients at increased risk for hyponatraemia, such as elderly, cirrhotic, or dehydrated patients or patients treated with diuretics.

Depression, suicidal ideation and behaviour

Although YENTREVE is not indicated for the treatment of depression, its active ingredient (duloxetine) also exists as an antidepressant medicinal product. Depression is associated with an increased risk of suicidal thoughts, self harm and suicide (suicide-related events). This risk persists until significant remission occurs. As improvement may not occur during the first few weeks or more of treatment, patients should be closely monitored until such improvement occurs. It is general clinical experience that the risk of suicide may increase in the early stages of recovery. Patients with a history of suicide-related events or those exhibiting a significant degree of suicidal thoughts prior to commencement of treatment are known to be at a greater risk of suicidal thoughts or suicidal behaviour, and should receive careful monitoring during treatment. A meta-analysis of placebo-controlled clinical trials of antidepressant medicinal products in psychiatric disorders showed an increased risk of suicidal behaviour with antidepressants compared to placebo in patients less than 25 years old.

Cases of suicidal thoughts and suicidal behaviours have been reported during duloxetine therapy or early after treatment discontinuation (see section 4.8). Physicians should encourage patients to report any distressing thoughts or feelings or depressive symptoms at any time. If while on YENTREVE therapy, the patient develops agitation or depressive symptoms, specialised medical advice should be sought, as depression is a serious medical condition. If a decision to initiate antidepressant pharmacological therapy is taken, the gradual discontinuation of YENTREVE is recommended (see section 4.2).

Use in children and adolescents under 18 years of age

YENTREVE should not be used in the treatment of children and adolescents under the age of 18 years. Suicide-related behaviours (suicide attempts and suicidal thoughts), and hostility (predominantly aggression, oppositional behaviour and anger), were more frequently observed in clinical trials among children and adolescents treated with antidepressants compared to those treated with placebo. If, based on clinical need, a decision to treat is nevertheless taken, the patient should be carefully monitored for the appearance of suicidal symptoms. In addition, long-term safety data in children and adolescents concerning growth, maturation and cognitive and behavioural development are lacking.

Medicinal products containing duloxetine

Duloxetine is used under different trademarks in several indications (treatment of diabetic neuropathic pain, major depressive disorder, generalised anxiety disorder and stress urinary incontinence). The use of more than one of these products concomitantly should be avoided.

Hepatitis/increased liver enzymes

Cases of liver injury, including severe elevations of liver enzymes (>10 times upper limit of normal), hepatitis and jaundice have been reported with duloxetine (see section 4.8). Most of them occurred during the first months of treatment. The pattern of liver damage was predominantly hepatocellular. Duloxetine should be used with caution in patients treated with other medicinal products associated with hepatic injury.

Akathisia/psychomotor restlessness

The use of duloxetine has been associated with the development of akathisia, characterised by a subjectively unpleasant or distressing restlessness and need to move often accompanied by an inability to sit or stand still. This is most likely to occur within the first few weeks of treatment. In patients who develop these symptoms, increasing the dose may be detrimental.

Sexual dysfunction

Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)/serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) may cause symptoms of sexual dysfunction (see section 4.8). There have been reports of long-lasting sexual dysfunction where the symptoms have continued despite discontinuation of SSRIs/SNRIs.

Sucrose

YENTREVE hard gastro-resistant capsules contain sucrose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of fructose intolerance, glucose-galactose malabsorption or sucrase-isomaltase insufficiency should not take this medicine.

Sodium

This medicine contains less than 1 mmol sodium (23 mg) per capsule, that is to say essentially 'sodium-free'.

4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): Due to the risk of serotonin syndrome, duloxetine should not be used in combination with non-selective irreversible monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), or within at least 14 days of discontinuing treatment with an MAOI. Based on the half-life of duloxetine, at least 5 days should be allowed after stopping YENTREVE before starting an MAOI (see section 4.3).

The concomitant use of YENTREVE with selective, reversible MAOIs, like moclobemide, is not recommended (see section 4.4). The antibiotic linezolid is a reversible non-selective MAOI and should not be given to patients treated with YENTREVE (see section 4.4).

Inhibitors of CYP1A2: Because CYP1A2 is involved in duloxetine metabolism, concomitant use of YENTREVE with potent inhibitors of CYP1A2 is likely to result in higher concentrations of duloxetine. Fluvoxamine (100 mg once daily), a potent inhibitor of CYP1A2, decreased the apparent plasma clearance of duloxetine by about 77% and increased AUC0-t 6-fold. Therefore YENTREVE should not be administered in combination with potent inhibitors of CYP1A2 like fluvoxamine (see section 4.3).

CNS medicinal products: Caution is advised when YENTREVE is taken in combination with other centrally acting medicinal products or substances, including alcohol and sedative medicinal products (e.g. benzodiazepines, morphinomimetics, antipsychotics, phenobarbital, sedative antihistamines).

Serotonergic agents: In rare cases, serotonin syndrome has been reported in patients using SSRIs/SNRIs concomitantly with serotonergic agents. Caution is advisable if YENTREVE is used concomitantly with serotonergic agents like SSRIs, SNRIs, tricyclic antidepressants like clomipramine or amitriptyline, MAOIs like moclobemide or linezolid, St John's wort (Hypericum perforatum) or triptans, tramadol, pethidine and tryptophan (see section 4.4).

Effect of duloxetine on other medicinal products

Medicinal products metabolised by CYP1A2: The pharmacokinetics of theophylline, a CYP1A2 substrate, were not significantly affected by co-administration with duloxetine (60 mg twice daily).

Medicinal products metabolised by CYP2D6: Duloxetine is a moderate inhibitor of CYP2D6. When duloxetine was administered at a dose of 60 mg twice daily with a single dose of desipramine, a CYP2D6 substrate, the AUC of desipramine increased 3-fold. The co-administration of duloxetine (40 mg twice daily) increases steady state AUC of tolterodine (2 mg twice daily) by 71 %, but does not affect the pharmacokinetics of its active 5-hydroxyl metabolite and no dosage adjustment is recommended. Caution is advised if YENTREVE is co-administered with medicinal products that are predominantly metabolised by CYP2D6 (risperidone, tricyclic antidepressants [TCAs] such as nortriptyline, amitriptyline, and imipramine) particularly if they have a narrow therapeutic index (such as flecainide, propafenone and metoprolol).

Oral contraceptives and other steroidal agents: Results of in vitro studies demonstrate that duloxetine does not induce the catalytic activity of CYP3A. Specific in vivo drug interaction studies have not been performed.

Anticoagulants and antiplatelet agents: Caution should be exercised when duloxetine is combined with oral anticoagulants or antiplatelet agents due to a potential increased risk of bleeding attributable to a pharmacodynamic interaction. Furthermore, increases in INR values have been reported when duloxetine was co-administered to patients treated with warfarin. However, concomitant administration of duloxetine with warfarin under steady state conditions, in healthy volunteers, as part of a clinical pharmacology study, did not result in a clinically significant change in INR from baseline or in the pharmacokinetics of R- or S-warfarin.

Effects of other medicinal products on duloxetine

Antacids and H2 antagonists: Co-administration of YENTREVE with aluminium- and magnesium-containing antacids or with famotidine had no significant effect on the rate or extent of duloxetine absorption after administration of a 40 mg oral dose.

Inducers of CYP1A2: Population pharmacokinetic studies analyses have shown that smokers have almost 50% lower plasma concentrations of duloxetine compared with non-smokers.

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Fertility

In animal studies, duloxetine had no effect on male fertility, and effects in females were only evident at doses that caused maternal toxicity.

Pregnancy

Studies in animals have shown reproductive toxicity at systemic exposure levels (AUC) of duloxetine lower than the maximum clinical exposure (see section 5.3).

Two large observational studies do not suggest an overall increased risk of major congenital malformation (one from the US including 2,500 exposed to duloxetine during the first trimester and one from the EU including 1,500 exposed to duloxetine during the first trimester). The analysis on specific malformations such as cardiac malformations shows inconclusive results.

In the EU study, maternal exposure to duloxetine during late pregnancy (at any time from 20 weeks gestational age to delivery) was associated with an increased risk for preterm birth (less than 2-fold, corresponding to approximately 6 additional premature births per 100 women treated with duloxetine late in pregnancy). The majority occurred between 35 and 36 weeks of gestation. This association was not seen in the US study.

The US observational data have provided evidence of an increased risk (less than 2 -fold) of postpartum haemorrhage following duloxetine exposure within the month prior to birth.

Epidemiological data have suggested that the use of SSRIs in pregnancy, particularly in late pregnancy, may increase the risk of persistent pulmonary hypertension in the newborn (PPHN). Although no studies have investigated the association of PPHN to SNRI treatment, this potential risk cannot be ruled out with duloxetine taking into account the related mechanism of action (inhibition of the re-uptake of serotonin).

As with other serotonergic medicinal products, discontinuation symptoms may occur in the neonate after maternal duloxetine use near term. Discontinuation symptoms seen with duloxetine may include hypotonia, tremor, jitteriness, feeding difficulty, respiratory distress and seizures. The majority of cases have occurred either at birth or within a few days of birth.

YENTREVE should be used in pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the foetus. Women should be advised to notify their physician if they become pregnant, or intend to become pregnant, during therapy.

Breastfeeding

Duloxetine is very weakly excreted into human milk based on a study of 6 lactating patients who did not breast feed their children. The estimated daily infant dose on a mg/kg basis is approximately 0.14% of the maternal dose (see section 5.2). As the safety of duloxetine in infants is not known, the use of YENTREVE while breast-feeding is not recommended.

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

No studies on the effects on the ability to drive and use machines have been performed. YENTREVE may be associated with sedation and dizziness. Patients should be instructed that if they experience sedation or dizziness they should avoid potentially hazardous tasks such as driving or operating machinery.

4.8. Undesirable effects

a. Summary of the safety profile

The most commonly reported adverse events in patients treated with YENTREVE in clinical trials in SUI and other lower urinary tract disorders were nausea, dry mouth, fatigue and constipation. The data analysis of four 12-week, placebo-controlled clinical trials in patients with SUI, including 958 duloxetine-treated and 955 placebo-treated patients, showed that the onset of the reported adverse events typically occurred in the first week of therapy. However, the majority of the most frequent adverse events were mild to moderate and resolved within 30 days of occurrence (e.g. nausea).

b. Tabulated summary of adverse reactions

Table 1 gives the adverse reactions observed from spontaneous reporting and in placebo-controlled clinical trials.

Table 1: Adverse reactions

Frequency estimate: Very common (≥1/10), common (≥1/100 to <1/10), uncommon (≥1/1,000 to <1/100), rare (≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000), very rare (<1/10,000), not known (cannot be estimated from the available data).

Within each frequency grouping, undesirable effects are presented in order of decreasing seriousness.

Very common

Common

Uncommon

Rare

Very rare

Not known

Infections and infestations

Laryngitis

Immune system disorders

Hypersensitivity disorder

Anaphylactic reaction

Endocrine disorders

Hypothyroidism

Metabolism and nutrition disorders

Appetite decreased

Dehydration

Hyperglycaemia (reported especially in diabetic patients)

Hyponatraemia

SIADH6

Psychiatric disorders

Insomnia

Agitation

Libido decreased

Anxiety

Sleep disorder

Bruxism

Disorientation

Apathy

Orgasm abnormal

Abnormal dreams

Suicidal behaviour5,6

Suicidal ideation5,7

Mania6

Hallucinations

Aggression and anger4,6

Nervous system disorders

Headache

Dizziness

Lethargy

Somnolence

Tremor

Paraesthesia

Nervousness

Disturbance in attention

Dysgeusia

Poor quality sleep

Serotonin syndrome6

Convulsions1,6

Myoclonus

Akathisia6

Psychomotor restlessness6

Extra-pyramidal symptoms6

Dyskinesia

Restless legs syndrome

Eye disorders

Blurred vision

Mydriasis

Visual impairment

Dry eye

Glaucoma

Ear and labyrinth disorders

Vertigo

Tinnitus1

Ear pain

Cardiac disorders

Palpitations

Tachycardia

Supra-ventricular arrhythmia, mainly atrial fibrillation6

Stress cardiomyopathy (Takotsubo cardiomyopathy)

Vascular disorders

Hypertension3,7

Flushing

Syncope2

Blood pressure increase3

Hypertensive crisis3

Orthostatic hypotension2

Peripheral coldness

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

Yawning

Throat tightness

Epistaxis

Interstitial lung disease10

Eosinophilic pneumonia6

Gastrointestinal disorders

Nausea

Dry mouth

Constipation

Diarrhoea

Abdominal pain

Vomiting

Dyspepsia

Gastrointestinal haemorrhage7

Gastroenteritis

Stomatitis

Eructation

Gastritis

Dysphagia

Flatulence

Breath odour

Haematochezia

Microscopic colitis9

Hepato-biliary disorders

Hepatitis3

Elevated liver enzymes (ALT, AST, alkaline phosphatase)

Acute liver injury

Hepatic failure6

Jaundice6

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

Sweating increased

Rash

Night sweats

Urticaria

Dermatitis contact

Cold sweat

Increased tendency to bruise

Stevens-Johnson Syndrome6

Angioneurotic oedema6

Photosensitivity reactions

Cutaneous vasculitis

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders

Musculo-skeletal pain

Muscle tightness

Muscle spasm

Trismus

Muscle twitching

Renal and urinary disorders

Urinary hesitation

Dysuria

Nocturia

Pollakiuria

Urine odour abnormal

Urinary retention6

Polyuria

Urine flow decreased

Reproductive system and breast disorders

Gynaecological haemorrhage Menopausal symptoms

Menstrual disorder

Galactorrhoea

Hyperprolactinaemia

Postpartum haemorrhage6

General disorders and administration site conditions

Fatigue

Asthenia

Chills

Chest pain7

Falls8

Feeling abnormal

Feeling cold Thirst

Malaise

Feeling hot

Gait disturbance

Investigations

Weight decrease

Weight increase

Blood cholesterol increased

Blood creatine phosphokinase increased

Blood potassium increased

1 Cases of convulsion and cases of tinnitus have also been reported after treatment discontinuation.

2 Cases of orthostatic hypotension and syncope have been reported especially at the initiation of treatment.

3 See section 4.4.

4 Cases of aggression and anger have been reported particularly early in treatment or after treatment discontinuation.

5 Cases of suicidal ideation and suicidal behaviours have been reported during duloxetine therapy or early after treatment discontinuation (see section 4.4).

6 Estimated frequency of post-marketing surveillance reported adverse reactions; not observed in placebo-controlled clinical trials.

7 Not statistically significantly different from placebo.

8 Falls were more common in the elderly (≥65 years old).

9 Estimated frequency based on all clinical trial data.

10 Estimated frequency based on placebo-controlled clinical trials.

c. Description of selected adverse reactions

Discontinuation of duloxetine (particularly when abrupt) commonly leads to withdrawal symptoms. Dizziness, sensory disturbances (including paraesthesia or electric shock-like sensations, particularly in the head), sleep disturbances (including insomnia and intense dreams), fatigue, somnolence, agitation or anxiety, nausea and/or vomiting, tremor, headache, myalgia, irritability, diarrhoea, hyperhydrosis and vertigo are the most commonly reported reactions.

Generally, for SSRIs and SNRIs, these events are mild to moderate and self-limiting, however, in some patients they may be severe and/or prolonged. It is therefore advised that when duloxetine treatment is no longer required, gradual discontinuation by dose tapering should be carried out (see sections 4.2 and 4.4).

The heart rate-corrected QT interval in duloxetine-treated patients did not differ from that seen in placebo-treated patients. No clinically significant differences were observed for QT, PR, QRS, or QTcB measurements between duloxetine-treated and placebo-treated patients.

In the 12 week acute phase of three clinical trials of duloxetine in patients with diabetic neuropathic pain, small but statistically significant increases in fasting blood glucose were observed in duloxetine-treated patients. HbA1c was stable in both duloxetine-treated and placebo-treated patients. In the extension phase of these studies, which lasted up to 52 weeks, there was an increase in HbA1c in both the duloxetine and routine care groups, but the mean increase was 0.3% greater in the duloxetine-treated group. There was also a small increase in fasting blood glucose and in total cholesterol in duloxetine-treated patients, while those laboratory tests showed a slight decrease in the routine care group.

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via the Yellow Card Scheme; website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

4.9. Overdose

Cases of overdoses, alone or in combination with other medicinal products, with duloxetine doses of 5400 mg were reported. Some fatalities have occurred, primarily with mixed overdoses, but also with duloxetine alone at a dose of approximately 1000 mg. Signs and symptoms of overdose (duloxetine alone or in combination with other medicinal products) included somnolence, coma, serotonin syndrome, seizures, vomiting and tachycardia.

No specific antidote is known for duloxetine but if serotonin syndrome ensues, specific treatment (such as with cyproheptadine and/or temperature control) may be considered. A free airway should be established. Monitoring of cardiac and vital signs is recommended, along with appropriate symptomatic and supportive measures. Gastric lavage may be indicated if performed soon after ingestion or in symptomatic patients. Activated charcoal may be useful in limiting absorption. Duloxetine has a large volume of distribution and forced diuresis, haemoperfusion, and exchange perfusion are unlikely to be beneficial.

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