What is Cymbalta?

Cymbalta (duloxetine hydrochloride) is an antidepressant medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). It is used to treat certain types of depression and anxiety disorders.

How Does Cymbalta Work?

Cymbalta works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters help regulate mood, so increasing their levels can help relieve symptoms of depression and anxiety.

What is Cymbalta Used For?

Cymbalta is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat the following conditions:

• Major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Fibromyalgia
• Peripheral neuropathy
• Chronic musculoskeletal pain

Off-Label Cymbalta Uses

Cymbalta is sometimes prescribed off-label for other conditions, such as:

• Stress urinary incontinence
• Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
• Chronic pain

Before Taking Cymbalta

Before you start taking Cymbalta, your doctor will need to assess your health history to determine if it is an appropriate medication for you. Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medical conditions you have, as well as any medications or supplements you are taking.

Warnings and Precautions for Cymbalta

Cymbalta can cause serious side effects, including:

• Increased risk of suicide in children and young adults under the age of 25
• Serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur when too much serotonin builds up in the brain
• Liver damage
• Abnormal bleeding
• Increased risk of seizures
• Narrow-angle glaucoma

Contraindications for Cymbalta

Cymbalta is not appropriate for everyone. You should not take Cymbalta if you have any of the following conditions:

• Hypersensitivity to duloxetine
• Uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma
• Liver failure
• Severe kidney disease
• Taking a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) or have taken an MAOI within the past 14 days

Drug Interactions for Cymbalta

Cymbalta can interact with a variety of other medications, including:

• Blood thinners (e.g., warfarin, Coumadin)
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs, e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
• Antidepressants (e.g., fluoxetine, sertraline, citalopram)
• Birth control pills
• Antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone, olanzapine)
• Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine)

Be sure to tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking before starting Cymbalta.

Potential Side Effects of Cymbalta

The most common side effects of Cymbalta include:

• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Constipation
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Increased sweating
• Decreased appetite

More serious side effects of Cymbalta include:

• Serotonin syndrome
• Liver damage
• Abnormal bleeding
• Increased risk of seizures
• Narrow-angle glaucoma

Dosage of Cymbalta

The usual starting dose of Cymbalta for depression and anxiety is 30 mg once daily. The dose can be increased to 60 mg once daily after one week. The maximum recommended dose is 120 mg once daily.

The usual starting dose of Cymbalta for fibromyalgia and peripheral neuropathy is 60 mg once daily. The dose can be increased to 120 mg once daily after one week.

Cymbalta should be taken with or without food.

How to Take Cymbalta

• Take Cymbalta exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of the medication than prescribed.
• Swallow Cymbalta delayed-release capsules whole. Do not crush, chew, or open the capsules.
• If you miss a dose of Cymbalta, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses of Cymbalta at the same time.

Misuse

Cymbalta can be misused by taking it in higher doses than prescribed or by taking it for longer than prescribed. This can lead to serious side effects, including addiction.

Discontinuing Cymbalta

Do not suddenly stop taking Cymbalta without talking to your doctor. Suddenly stopping Cymbalta can cause withdrawal symptoms, such as:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Diarrhea
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Irritability
• Anxiety

Your doctor may slowly taper your dose of Cymbalta to help reduce the risk of withdrawal symptoms.