Desvenlafaxine is a dual serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor in vitro and in vivo that demonstrates good brain-to-plasma ratios. Desvenlafaxine has demonstrated antidepressant effects in preclinical studies. Pfizer is developing an oral, extended-release formulation of desvenlafaxine for the treatment of major depressive disorder. Desvenlafaxine has been registered and is available on the market for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adults.

Duloxetine (brand names Cymbalta, Yentreve, and in parts of Europe, Xeristar or Ariclaim) is indicated for the acute and maintenance treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), as well as acute management of generalized anxiety disorder. Also used for the management of neuropathic pain associated with diabetic peripheral neuropathy, and fibromyalgia. Has been used in the management of moderate to severe stress urinary incontinence (SUI) in women. It is manufactured and marketed by Eli Lilly and Company. Duloxetine has not yet been FDA approved for stress urinary incontinence or for fibromyalgia. Duloxetine is a selective SNRI (selective serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor). Duloxetine is a systemic drug therapy which affects the body as a whole. Known also under the code name LY248686, it is a potent dual reuptake inhibitor of serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) and norepinephrine (NE), possessing comparable affinities in binding to NE- and 5-HT transporter sites. It is a less potent inhibitor of dopamine reuptake.

R-Duloxetine is an enantiomer of the antidepressant S-duloxetine. R-Duloxetine was shown was highly effective against postoperative pain, which could be potential new analgesics. R-Duloxetine could show its effect via the blocking of the neuronal Na⁺ channels.

R-Duloxetine is an enantiomer of the antidepressant S-duloxetine. R-Duloxetine was shown was highly effective against postoperative pain, which could be potential new analgesics. R-Duloxetine could show its effect via the blocking of the neuronal Na⁺ channels.