
Precautions
The truth is, Cymbalta works beautifully for some people and some people hate it. But that’s true with ANY antidepressant! Cymbalta saved me from extreme, constant anxiety and panic attacks. But I have tried other drugs-Zoloft, Lexapro, Paxil, Prozac,etc. Figured out I cannot take ANY SSRI.
Does Cymbalta really work for You?
The best time of day to take Cymbalta depends on the person taking this medicine and any types of side effects or reactions he may have to taking it. According to WebMD, some side effects include sleepiness or drowsiness, nausea and nervousness, which make taking the medication at night preferable. WebMD recommends taking Cymbalta as prescribed by a doctor.
When is the best time of day to take Cymbalta?
Cymbalta 20mg (Duloxetine) Common use. Duloxetine belongs to the class of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Duloxetine is used to treat major depressive disorder or generalized anxiety disorder. It also helps to lessen pain associated with diabetic neuropathy and fibromyalgia. Dosage and direction
What is Cymbalta 20 mg used for?
Cymbalta (Generic Name: duloxetine HCL) is a once-daily serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) medication primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders in adolescents and adults. Its safety has not been established for children.
What is Cymbalta used to treat?
See more

What are the benefits of taking Cymbalta?
Duloxetine may improve your mood, sleep, appetite, and energy level, and decrease nervousness. It can also decrease pain due to certain medical conditions. Duloxetine is known as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI).
How does Cymbalta make you feel?
Headache, nausea, diarrhea, dry mouth, decreased appetite, increased sweating, feeling nervous, restless, fatigued, sleepy or having trouble sleeping (insomnia). These will often improve over the first week or two as you continue to take the medication.
Is Cymbalta a pain killer?
First approved as an antidepressant, Cymbalta also provides pain relief. The drug targets neurochemicals involved in the regulation of both mood and pain.
Is Cymbalta better for anxiety or depression?
Cymbalta is used for the treatment of major depressive disorder in adults and generalized anxiety disorder in adults and children over the age of seven. It has been proven that a once-a-day 60 mg dose of Cymbalta can offer relief of anxiety symptoms in those with depression within 2-4 weeks.
Will Cymbalta give me energy?
Taking Cymbalta can improve mood, sleep, appetite and energy levels while also decreasing nervousness. For medical conditions such as chronic back pain and fibromyalgia, it works to relieve pain.
Do you gain weight on Cymbalta?
Weight gain is a possible side effect of Cymbalta (duloxetine). But it can also cause weight loss during the first several months of taking it. Weight gain can happen from taking it for a longer time. You can help manage weight while taking Cymbalta by making healthy lifestyle choices.
What is better Cymbalta or Xanax?
Cymbalta has an average rating of 6.2 out of 10 from a total of 1687 ratings on Drugs.com. 53% of reviewers reported a positive effect, while 30% reported a negative effect. Xanax has an average rating of 8.7 out of 10 from a total of 792 ratings on Drugs.com.
How quickly does Cymbalta work?
Official answer. It may take up to 6 to 8 weeks for the full effects of Cymbalta to be seen, although some improvement in symptoms, such as sleep, energy, or appetite may show an improvement in 1-2 weeks. Symptoms such as depressed mood and lack of interest in activities may take the full 6-8 weeks to resolve.
Who should not take Cymbalta?
have a heart problem. are taking or have taken other medicines for depression within the last 14 days. have glaucoma – duloxetine can increase the pressure in your eye. have ever had a seizure or fit, manic episodes or bipolar disorder.
Does Cymbalta make you feel good?
Within one to two weeks, you can feel your sleep, energy or appetite improving. The full effects of Cymbalta (duloxetine) on improving your mood can take up to 12 weeks.
Does Cymbalta help with sleep?
Unfortunately, insomnia is a common side effect experienced by some people who take Cymbalta. Roughly 10% or more of patients taking Cymbalta report insomnia. Insomnia can mean difficulty falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep, waking up earlier than desired, or waking up and still feeling tired.
Does Cymbalta increase appetite?
Studies show that serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like Cymbalta are frequently associated with weight loss due to gastrointestinal (stomach) side effects like decreased appetite and nausea. Nausea (23%), decreased appetite (7%) and abdominal pain (5%) occur frequently.
How long does it take for Cymbalta to kick in?
How long does it take for Cymbalta (duloxetine) to take effect? Within one to two weeks, you can feel your sleep, energy or appetite improving. The full effects of Cymbalta (duloxetine) on improving your mood can take up to 12 weeks.
What is the most common side effect of Cymbalta?
The most common side effects of the drug include nausea, headache, dry mouth and sleepiness — but more serious side effects may occur. Like most antidepressants, Cymbalta (duloxetine) may trigger suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents and adults under the age of 24.
Is it better to take Cymbalta in the morning or at night?
1. Should I take Cymbalta in the morning or at night? Cymbalta can be taken at any time of day. What's most important is that you take it at the same time each day.
Does Cymbalta work immediately?
The medication does not work instantly. You may see an improvement after a few weeks of taking Cymbalta for nerve pain. It's important that you continue the medication even if you feel the medication is not working. Talk to your healthcare provider before stopping the medication.
How to sleep while taking Cymbalta?
Not being able to sleep (also called insomnia) is one of the most common side effects reported by people taking Cymbalta. In some people, this side...
Does Cymbalta cause weight gain?
Cymbalta is more likely to cause weight loss early in the first 8 to 9 weeks of treatment, but result in a modest weight gain after 8 months of tre...
What helps with Cymbalta withdrawal symptoms?
Slowly stopping Cymbalta treatment over 2 to 4 weeks is the best way to help avoid withdrawal symptoms like dizziness, nausea or headache. Talk wit...
How long does it take for Cymbalta to work?
It may take up to 6 to 8 weeks for the full effects of Cymbalta to be seen, although some improvement in symptoms, such as sleep, energy, or appeti...
What is Cymbalta used for?
In November 2010, the FDA approved Cymbalta for the treatment of musculoskeletal pain. Musculoskeletal refers to the combined workings of the body’s skeleton and muscles.
Who developed Cymbalta?
Eli Lilly developed Cymbalta as a successor to its highly successful Prozac. Cymbalta became Lilly’s biggest-selling drug at one time, leading a neurosciences division responsible for more than one-fifth of Lilly’s revenues. Antidepressants had been used to treat pain for years before Cymbalta. But after research in the late 1990s showed ...
What is the active ingredient in Cymbalta?
Cymbalta is one of only three drugs approved to treat fibromyalgia pain. Most cases develop in people between the ages of 40 and 70. Duloxetine, the active ingredient in Cymbalta, is one of three drugs approved by the FDA to treat fibromyalgia. The other two are pregabalin (Lyrica) and milnacipran (Savella).
Does Cymbalta increase serotonin?
Cymbalta increases the levels of the neurotransmitters serotonin and norepinephrine. Scientists believe these two chemicals are responsible for regulating both a person’s mood and their sensitivity to pain.
Can Cymbalta cause withdrawal?
It is believed that Cymbalta’s ability to increase levels of both chemicals allows the brain to better control the pain. Even if taken to treat pain, patients should not stop Cymbalta suddenly. Doing so can result in serious and sometimes life-threatening withdrawal symptoms.
Does Cymbalta help with pain?
But after research in the late 1990s showed that Cymbalta could be effective at controlling pain, Lilly pursued opportunities to market it for the treatment of certain types of chronic pain alongside its treatment of depression.
Does Cymbalta help with peripheral neuropathy?
It is known that Cymbalta does not repair the nerve damage which leads to diabetic peripheral neuropathy, but clinical trials of Cymbalta have shown that the drug can relieve the pain and other sensations associated with the condition.
What is Cymbalta?
Cymbalta belongs to serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) class of drugs. It’s believed that this medicine works by increasing the activity of brain chemicals known as norepinephrine and serotonin.
What are the side effects of Cymbalta?
Common Cymbalta side effects include: 1 low sodium levels in the blood 2 dry mouth and headaches 3 diabetes patients may have irregular glucose levels 4 extreme skin reactions 5 insomnia or sleepiness 6 fatigue and dizziness 7 nausea, diarrhea or constipation 8 increased appetite
How long does Cymbalta help with fibromyalgia?
The majority of fibromyalgia patients reported that they felt significant pain relief after one week of use. The pain relief can be even more significant in patients suffering from depression. Other known benefits of Cymbalta include: Less pain means you’ll smoothly go back to your everyday routine.
What are the side effects of Duloxetine?
insomnia or sleepiness. fatigue and dizziness. nausea, diarrhea or constipation. increased appetite. More severe side effects and Duloxetine warnings mention the possibility of: Cutaneous vasculitis and colitis. possible occurrence of orthostatic hypotension. sexual dysfunctionality in both females and males.
Does Cymbalta help with sleep?
Generic Cymbalta is also used for recharging energy levels, improving appetite, mood, and sleep, making you feel less nervous. Cymbalta works by successfully restoring the balance of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain.
Is Cymbalta available in capsules?
The frequency of daily doses and the allowed time between each dose depend on the medical condition you’re trying to treat. Cymbalta is also available in capsules with extended-release effect. Missing a single dose of Cymbalta isn’t a big deal, but make sure to take it as soon as you remember.
Does Cymbalta require a prescription?
Using Cymbalta requires a doctor’s prescription . In addition, it’s advisable to follow the provided dosage and usage instructions. Like any other drug, Cymbalta can also cause various side effects, and in this article, you'll learn about the benefits and dangers of using Cymbalta.
What is Cymbalta?
Cymbalta is a prescription medication that’s FDA-approved to treat several conditions.
What is the drug class of Cymbalta?
Cymbalta contains the active drug duloxetine. Duloxetine belongs to a drug class called serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). A drug class is a group of medications that work in a similar way.
How long does Cymbalta stay in your system?
Cymbalta stays in your system for about 3 days. If you have questions about how long you’ll feel the effects of the drug, including potential withdrawal symptoms, talk with your doctor.
How many mg of Cymbalta are there?
Cymbalta comes as a capsule that you take by mouth. The capsules are available in three strengths: 20 milligrams (mg), 30 mg, and 60 mg.
What to do if you no longer need Cymbalta?
If you no longer need to take Cymbalta and have leftover medication, it’s important to dispose of it safely. This helps prevent others, including children and pets, from taking the drug by accident. It also helps keep the drug from harming the environment.
How old is Cymbalta?
Cymbalta is approved for use in children ages 7 years and older with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). It’s also approved for use in children ages 13 years and older with fibromyalgia.
What is a boxed warning on a med?
This is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). A boxed warning alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.
What is duloxetine used for?
Duloxetine is used to treat depression and anxiety. In addition, duloxetine is used to help relieve nerve pain ( peripheral neuropathy) in people with diabetes or ongoing pain due to medical conditions such as arthritis, chronic back pain, or fibromyalgia (a condition that causes widespread pain).Duloxetine may improve your mood, sleep, appetite, and energy level, and decrease nervousness. It can also decrease pain due to certain medical conditions. Duloxetine is known as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). This medication works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances (serotonin and norepinephrine) in the brain.
What medications can affect duloxetine?
Other medications can affect the removal of duloxetine from your body, which may affect how duloxetine works. Examples include cimetidine, viloxazine, certain quinolone antibiotics (such as ciprofloxacin, enoxacin), among others.
How to report duloxetine side effects in Canada?
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345. Precautions. Before taking duloxetine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.
What drugs can cause bleeding?
Some products that may interact with this drug include: other drugs that can cause bleeding/bruising ( including antiplatelet drugs such as clopidogrel, NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, " blood thinners " such as warfarin ).
Does duloxetine help with pain?
It can also decrease pain due to certain medical conditions. Duloxetine is known as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). This medication works by helping to restore the balance of certain natural substances (serotonin and norepinephrine) in the brain.
Are you currently using Cymbalta?
This survey is being conducted by the WebMD marketing sciences department.
What Is Duloxetine?
Cymbalta, also known by its generic name of Duloxetine, is a prescription medication. The primary ingredient in the medicine is Duloxetine HCL. It was developed for the treatment of major depressive disorder; however, it is now used to treat numerous mental health conditions and some pain disorders.
What is the drug class of Duloxetine?
The Duloxetine drug class is an antidepressant . It belongs to the antidepressant subclass called selective serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, or SNRIs. It has the potential to cause Duloxetine interactions when taken with other substances. Additionally, users can be allergic to the ingredients used in the Cymbalta medication. Close medical supervision can help keep users safe.
Is Duloxetine Addictive?
The official stance of the medical community is that Duloxetine is not addictive. However, Cymbalta abuse and misuse undoubtedly occur, and both physical and psychological dependence is possible.
Can you take Cymbalta while pregnant?
For example, Cymbalta sexual effects in men can outweigh the benefits the medication offers. Also, using the drug during pregnancy is not recommended . Ultimately, patients must work closely with their doctor to determine if Duloxetine is the proper treatment they should choose.
Is Cymbalta addictive?
However, there are other health conditions it is used to treat off-label. Although the medication is not generally considered addictive, it still has some abuse potential.
Does Cymbalta help with back pain?
Less common among Cymbalta uses is back pain. However, many doctors believe that it is an effective use of the drug. Given that Duloxetine can help other kinds of pain, this is a logical conclusion. There are two primary types of back pain Duloxetine is used to treat.
Is Cymbalta used for anxiety?
Cymbalta For Pain, Anxiety & Other Uses. Cymbalta (Duloxetine HCl) is an antidepressant drug that millions of people in the United States use daily. Like other antidepressants, Cymbalta for anxiety or depression is the most widespread use. However, there are other health conditions it is used to treat off-label.
Is it safe to stop taking fibromyalgia medication?
Doses higher than this aren't believed to be more effective for fibromyalgia, and they are associated with a higher risk of side effects. People who want to stop taking this drug should talk to their doctor about the proper way to gradually wean off of it; stopping suddenly is dangerous.
Does Cymbalta work for everyone?
They work well for some but not for everyone. For some people, they cause side effects that are either dangerous or unpleasant enough to make people go off of them. For others, they just don't work very well. (This isn't unique to Cymbalta. No single treatment helps all of us with this illness.)
Does Cymbalta help with fibromyalgia?
Cymbalta for Reducing Fibromyalgia Pain. Multiple clinical trials show that Cymbalta can reduce fibromyalgia pain, both with and without comorbid depression. Studies also show that the drug continues to be effective for at least one year.
Is Cymbalta a generic?
A generic form is available in the U.S. Cymbalta and the other approved drugs, Lyrica (pregabalin) and Savella (milnacipran), are considered first-line treatments for fibromyalgia. That means they're recommended before any other drugs. They work well for some but not for everyone.
Is Cymbalta Right for You?
If you're interested in trying Cymbalta, talk to your healthcare provider. Be sure to carefully weigh the pros and cons and look into any possible negative interactions with other drugs you're taking .
What is Cymbalta used for?
Cymbalta is used to treat fibromyalgia and generalized anxiety disorder in children. The pediatric dose for these conditions is typically lower than the adult dose.
When would my doctor recommend the maximum dosage of Cymbalta?
Your doctor may increase your Cymbalta dosage to 120 mg per day for depression or anxiety if lower dosages haven’t worked for you. If the maximum dosage doesn’t work for you, your doctor will likely switch you to a different treatment.
How old do you have to be to take Cymbalta?
In most cases, the dosage of Cymbalta prescribed for older adults is the same as that for adults younger than age 65 years.
What to do if you miss Cymbalta?
If you miss a dose of Cymbalta, take your missed dose as soon as possible. Then, continue with your usual dosing schedule. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled.
Can you take Cymbalta with food?
You should take Cymbalta as instructed by your doctor. Cymbalta comes as an oral capsule. You may take your dose with or without food.
Can you take Cymbalta with depression?
Yes, Cymbalta can be prescribed in 90-mg and 120-mg doses. These doses may be used for depression or anxiety. However, they’re not common because clinical studies haven’t shown them to be more effective than the 60-mg dose.
What to do if you take too much Cymbalta?
Another option is to call the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222 or use its online tool . If you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency room.
