The prescription medication duloxetine, available as the brand Cymbalta, is used to treat depression, generalized anxiety disorder and several health conditions that cause chronic pain. Chasteberry, with the botanical name Vitex agnus-castus, helps relieve symptoms of premenstrual syndrome. Both have effects on brain neurotransmitters. Consult your doctor before combining Cymbalta and chasteberry.
Chasteberry
During research evaluating the use of chasteberry for premenustral syndrome, the herb reduced symptoms of breast pain and tenderness, fluid retention, constipation, headaches, depression and irritability, according to an article published in the September 2005 issue of "American Family Physician." High-quality research on this herb is limited, however. The beneficial effects are probably due to its effects on hormones, including the neurotransmitter dopamine. Because chasteberry alters dopamine levels, caution is advised when taking it with medications that do so as well, says the author. Cymbalta, however, works by altering levels of different neurotransmitters.
Cymbalta
Cymbalta is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, or SNRI. It increases levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain by preventing their reabsorption into brain cells, and it keeps these neurotransmitters circulating. Serotonin and norepinephrine help maintain mental balance and stop pain signals in the brain, explains PubMed Health.
Interactions
No drug interactions have been reported by users of chasteberry or during research with this herb, and any possible interactions are theoretical, according to the "American Family Physician" article. Because it affects brain levels of dopamine, chasteberry might interact with medications that increase or decrease dopamine levels. These medications are used for conditions such as Parkinson's disease, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and major depression. Some also are effective anti-nausea agents. Chasteberry is not indicated as interacting with drugs that increase serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, such as Cymbalta.
Side Effects
Both chasteberry and Cymbalta can cause digestive side effects, so these effects might be worse when combining the two. Digestive effects associated with chasteberry are generally mild, while Cymbalta use has been connected with constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, lack of appetite, abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting. Both Cymbalta and chasteberry may cause dry mouth, dizziness, headaches and tiredness.
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