Enteric-coated (delayed-release)

duloxetine

Cymbalta

Safety Verdicts

Crush

✕Do not

do not crush, chew, or open capsule ( 2.

FDA label

Split

✕Do not

Swallow whole;

FDA label

Open Capsule

✕Do not

do not crush, chew, or open capsule ( 2.

FDA label

Formulation Mechanism

Textbook

An enteric (delayed-release) coating keeps the tablet or capsule intact through the stomach so it dissolves in the intestine. Crushing or opening breaks the coating, which can destroy the drug in stomach acid or irritate the stomach.

Last reviewed: 2026-06-03

This tool shows mechanism, verdict, and alternative data only — not patient-specific advice. A “can crush” result is a general guide, not a guarantee for your exact product: the same ingredient can differ by brand, manufacturer, and formulation. Data comes from U.S. drug labels and covers a limited set of medicines — if a drug isn’t listed, that is not a green light to crush it. Always confirm with your pharmacist or physician before altering how a medication is administered.