Usefulness of duloxetine for Paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy treatment in gynecological cancer patients.

AIM The present study aimed at evaluating the usefulness and adverse effects of duloxetine treatment for paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy in gynecological cancer patients. PATIENTS AND METHODS Medical records of gynecological cancer patients treated with duloxetine were retrospectively studied to evaluate the drug's efficacy for paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy. RESULTS RESULTS from 25 patients showed that an improved response was observed in 14 (56%). By univariate and multivariate analysis, the patient's age, tumor origin, regimen of chemotherapy, accumulated doses of paclitaxel or carboplatin, previous medication, maintenance dosage and timing of treatment with duloxetine were found not to be associated with the effectiveness of duloxetine treatment. Adverse effects with duloxetine were mild and well-tolerated. CONCLUSION As an option, duloxetine can be effectively used for paclitaxel-induced peripheral neuropathy in patients with gynecological cancers, irrespective of patients' age, origin of the tumor, regimen of chemotherapy, or previous medication.