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Author: Admin | 2025-04-28
HomeCymbaltaPatient Tips Medically reviewed by Carmen Pope, BPharm. Last updated on July 26, 2024. How it worksUpsidesDownsidesBottom LineTipsResponse/effectivenessInteractions 1. How it works Cymbalta is a brand (trade) name for duloxetine. Duloxetine may be used in the treatment of depression, chronic pain, or anxiety. Experts aren't sure exactly how Cymbalta (duloxetine) works but believe its antidepressant, pain-relieving, and anti-anxiety actions are due to its ability to enhance the effects of serotonin and noradrenaline in the central nervous system. Cymbalta belongs to a group of medicines called Selective Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors (SSNRIs). 2. Upsides Used in the treatment of moderate-to-severe depression (Major Depressive Disorder).May be used to relieve symptoms of anxiety in adults and children aged over 7 years with generalized anxiety disorder. May relieve nerve pain associated with diabetes (diabetic peripheral neuropathy).May be used to relieve pain associated with fibromyalgia and in the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal pain.Cymbalta is available as a generic under the name duloxetine. 3. Downsides If you are between the ages of 18 and 60, take no other medication or have no other medical conditions, side effects you are more likely to experience include: Drowsiness, insomnia, nausea, headache, dry mouth, constipation, and dizziness. Most people experience side effects with Cymbalta and one in six people stop taking the drug because of them. Severe skin reactions and urinary retention have also been reported with Cymbalta.An increased risk of suicidal thoughts, especially in young adults under the age of 24 (similar to other antidepressants). Associated with a discontinuation syndrome if stopped abruptly or even when tapered. Symptoms may include anxiety, headache, dizziness, diarrhea, abnormal sensations such as pins and needles, irritability, insomnia, increased sweating, and tiredness. Discontinue slowly on a doctor's advice. Interaction or overdosage may cause serotonin syndrome (symptoms include mental status changes [such as agitation, hallucinations, coma, delirium), fast heart rate, dizziness, flushing, muscle tremor or rigidity, and stomach symptoms (including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea). May precipitate a manic episode in people with undiagnosed bipolar disorder. May cause a lowering of blood pressure - this may be particularly noticeable when going from a sitting to a standing position and increase the risk of falls. May also increase blood pressure in some people. May increase the risk of bleeding; caution when using other drugs that increase bleeding risk (such as aspirin and NSAIDs). May cause a lowering of total body sodium (called hyponatremia); elderly people or people taking diuretics or already dehydrated may be more at risk. The dosage of Cymbalta needs to be reduced in people with mild to moderate kidney or liver disease. Avoid in people with severe kidney or liver disease. There have been reports of fatal liver failure associated with Cymbalta use.May
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