An Integrative Review of the Effectiveness of Duloxetine Use in Cancer Patients Receiving Chemotherapy

Purpose: The objective of this Integrative Review of Literature (IRL) was to assess the efficacy of duloxetine in the management of chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN) among cancer patients. Peripheral neuropathy associated with chemotherapy manifests as symptoms such as tingling, burning, numbness, weakness, or pain in the hands and feet. The detrimental and, in some cases, debilitating impact of CIPN on individuals undergoing cancer treatment underscores the significance of investigating the effectiveness of duloxetine as part of the treatment plan for this condition. Procedure: A comprehensive literature search was performed to identify peer-reviewed journal articles on the effectiveness and safety of the use of duloxetine for the treatment of CIPN. The search was conducted using two electronic databases: CINHAL and PubMed. Additional supplemental sources, including the American Cancer Society, American Society of Clinical Oncology, Google Scholar, and Medline, were used to compile additional information for review. Results: The strengths and weaknesses of each article were reviewed utilizing the Johns Hopkins Research Appraisal tool. A data synthesis review exhibited good to high-quality articles with a range of evidence, including Level I, Level II, and Level III. Research yielded positive outcomes in reducing pain, increasing quality of life, and reducing the severity of symptoms for both physical and mental health with Duloxetine treatment. Results showed effectiveness and tolerability in the treatment of CIPN. Adding Duloxetine to the CIPN treatment plan positively impacted pain management and enhanced quality of life (QoL). Conclusion: Studies revealed that Duloxetine, as a pharmacologic intervention, resulted in a reduction in pain and an improvement in the quality of life (QoL) for patients experiencing chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (CIPN). Duloxetine demonstrated enhanced effectiveness, safety, and tolerability in its outcomes. Notably, the American Society of Clinical Oncology has designated Duloxetine as the standard of care for CIPN. Given its status as the standard of care, there is a higher likelihood of favorable considerations for Duloxetine by insurance companies.