Cymbalta (Duloxetine) Customer Reviews

Cymbalta

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Generic alternative for Cymbalta

Duloxetine

Rx Prescription Required    RxFormulation : Delayed Release Capsule

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Description

Indications

Duloxetine is indicated for the treatment of depression in adult populations and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults and children 7 years of age and older.

Duloxetine is utilized to treat the symptoms of diabetic neuropathy (nerve damage in individuals with diabetes) and fibromyalgia in adults and children 13 years and older, as well as chronic pain from conditions such as lower back pain or osteoarthritis in adults.

This medication is classified as a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), and functions by elevating the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine, which are essential neurotransmitters in the brain that contribute to maintaining mental balance and obstructing the transmission of pain signals.

Uses and Dosage

Duloxetine is administered orally in the form of a delayed-release capsule. The purpose of the delayed-release mechanism is to protect the medication from breakdown by gastric acids. The frequency and timing of duloxetine administration vary based on the condition being treated.

For depression, duloxetine may be taken once or twice daily, with or without food. For the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder, diabetic neuropathy pain, fibromyalgia, or ongoing bone or muscle pain, it is typically taken once daily, with or without food, at approximately the same time each day.

Follow the instructions on the prescription label carefully and to seek clarification from a physician or pharmacist if any part is unclear. Duloxetine should be taken precisely as directed by the prescribing physician, and the dose should not be altered without medical consultation. The capsules should be swallowed whole, without chewing or crushing, and should not be opened or mixed with liquids or sprinkled on food.

The physician may initiate treatment with a low dose that may be increased after one week. Duloxetine serves to manage symptoms rather than cure the underlying condition. It may take several weeks or longer to experience the full effects of the medication. Continue taking duloxetine as directed, even if symptoms improve. Abruptly discontinuing duloxetine may result in withdrawal symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, anxiety, dizziness, tiredness, headache, pain, burning, numbness, or tingling in the hands or feet, irritability, difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, sweating, and nightmares. The physician should be informed of any withdrawal symptoms experienced during dose reduction.

Side Effects

Some non-serious side effects may occur and typically resolve on their own as your body adjusts to the medication:

  • body aches or pain
  • cough
  • difficulty having a bowel movement (stool)
  • dry mouth
  • ear congestion
  • frequent urination
  • headache
  • lack or loss of strength
  • loss of appetite
  • loss of voice
  • muscle aches
  • nausea
  • sleepiness or unusual drowsiness
  • sneezing
  • sore throat
  • stuffy or runny nose
  • sweating increased
  • trouble sleeping
  • weight loss

Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:

  • area rash
  • blindness
  • blistering, peeling, or loosening of the skin
  • blurred vision
  • change in consciousness
  • chest tightness
  • chills
  • clay-colored stools
  • cold sweats
  • confusion
  • dark urine
  • decreased urine output
  • decreased vision
  • difficulty with swallowing
  • dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up suddenly from a lying or sitting position
  • eye pain
  • fainting
  • fast or irregular heartbeat
  • general tiredness or weakness
  • hives or welts, itching, or skin rash
  • hives, itching, puffiness, or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
  • increased thirst
  • joint or muscle pain
  • large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs
  • light-colored stools
  • loss of consciousness
  • red skin lesions, often with a purple center
  • red, irritated eyes
  • redness of the skin
  • seizures
  • sores, ulcers, or white spots in the mouth or on the lips
  • stomach pain
  • swelling of the face, ankles, or hands
  • tearing
  • unpleasant breath odor
  • upper right stomach pain
  • vomiting of blood
  • yellow eyes and skin

Caution

Avoid taking duloxetine with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan®), phenelzine (Nardil®), selegiline (Eldepryl®), tranylcypromine (Parnate®), or linezolid (Zyvox®) within the past two weeks or starting an MAOI within five days of discontinuing duloxetine. This combination may cause symptoms such as confusion, agitation, restlessness, gastrointestinal distress, high body temperature, high blood pressure, or seizures. Consult your physician if you are unsure if you are taking an MAOI or methylene blue injection.

Be aware that duloxetine may induce agitation, irritability, abnormal behavior, or increase depression and suicidal thoughts in some teenagers and young adults. Some individuals may also experience insomnia, irritability, increased energy, or reckless behavior. If you or your caregiver observe any of these adverse reactions, seek medical attention immediately. Inform your doctor if you or any family members have a history of bipolar disorder or suicide attempts.

Duloxetine may impact blood sugar levels and therefore, diabetics should monitor their blood or urine sugar tests and inform their doctor of any changes.

Duloxetine may cause blurred vision, dizziness, drowsiness, difficulty thinking, or difficulty controlling movements, leading to falls or injuries. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you are aware of how duloxetine affects you. Get up slowly to avoid lightheadedness or fainting. If these symptoms persist, seek medical attention.

Regular monitoring of blood pressure is necessary while taking duloxetine. If you observe any changes, contact your doctor promptly.

Hyponatremia, or low sodium levels in the blood, may also occur while taking duloxetine. Seek medical attention if you experience symptoms such as confusion, decreased urine output, difficulty concentrating, fast or irregular heartbeat, headache, memory problems, nausea or vomiting, swelling of the face, ankles, or hands, difficulty breathing, or fatigue.

Duloxetine may cause sexual dysfunction. Seek medical attention if you experience decreased sexual desire, difficulty maintaining an erection, or loss of sexual ability, drive, or performance.

Form and Strength

Duloxetine is available in the following forms and strengths:

  • Cymbalta capsule:

    • 20mg
    • 30mg
    • 60mg
  • Duloxetine capsule:

    • 20mg
    • 30mg
    • 40mg
    • 60mg

FAQ

How does Cymbalta make you feel the first day?

You can feel sleepy in the first few days of taking duloxetine. However, this should get better after the first week or two. It can also give you sleep problems, including unusual dreams.

How long does it take for your body to adjust to Cymbalta?

Sleep, energy, or appetite may show some improvement within the first 1-2 weeks. Improvement in these physical symptoms can be an important early signal that the medication is working. Depressed mood and lack of interest in activities may need up to 6-8 weeks to fully improve.

Resources

  1. https://www.youngminds.org.uk/young-person/medications/duloxetine/
  2. https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Duloxetine-(Cymbalta)
  3. https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604030.html
  4. https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/duloxetine-oral-route/precautions/drg-20067247
  5. https://www.drugs.com/cymbalta.html#dosage
  6. https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-91491/cymbalta-oral/details

Additional information

Generic name:

Duloxetine, Duloxetine Hydrochloride, Duloxetine hydrochloride

Formulation:

DR Capsule, Delayed Release Capsule, Delayed Release Capsule (Enteric Coated)

Strength(s):

20mg, 30mg, 40mg, 60mg

Quantities Available:

28, 60, 84, 100

Can Drug Store has provided information from third parties intended to increase awareness and does not contain all the information about Cymbalta (Duloxetine). Talk to your doctor or a qualified medical practitioner for medical attention, advice, or if you have any concerns about Cymbalta (Duloxetine).