FDA Approves Cymbalta for Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathic Pain

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has given its approval to Cymbalta (duloxetine HCl), a groundbreaking antidepressant that can effectively manage diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain, a symptom of nerve damage that affects up to 5 million Americans. Cymbalta, a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, is the first and only FDA-approved treatment for this type of pain. The approval came after a swift 6-month priority review, making it the fourth drug approval for Eli Lilly and Co. since early August. This development is significant, given that over 18 million Americans have diabetes and are at risk of developing persistent pain due to nerve damage.

Key Takeaways:

• The FDA has approved Cymbalta (duloxetine HCl) for the management of diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain, a symptom of nerve damage.
• Cymbalta is the first and only FDA-approved treatment for pain caused by diabetic peripheral neuropathy.
• The approval came after a 6-month priority review, demonstrating the FDA's commitment to expediting the evaluation process.
• Eli Lilly and Co. has secured four drug approvals since early August, highlighting the efficacy of the company's long-term investment in drug research.
• The approval is significant, given that diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain affects up to 5 million Americans and is a symptom of nerve damage caused by high blood sugar.
• The condition is described as burning, stabbing, or shooting pain, which affects over 18 million Americans who have diabetes and are at risk of developing persistent pain.
• Cymbalta is now available by prescription in pharmacies across the United States for the treatment of major depression or pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Statistics:

• 5 million Americans are affected by diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain.
• 18 million Americans have diabetes and are at risk of developing persistent pain due to nerve damage.
• 6 months was the duration of the FDA's priority review process for Cymbalta.
• 4 is the number of drug approvals secured by Eli Lilly and Co. since early August.

Sources:

• NewsRx.com & NewsRx.net
• Eli Lilly and Co. (LLY)
• U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
• Obesity & Diabetes Week
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