1. Cymbalta Restores Mental Balance, Relieves Pain
Cymbalta, also known by its generic name, duloxetine, is an antidepressant medication used for treatment of major depression, anxiety and peripheral neuropathy (nerve pain associated with diabetes). Antidepressants fall into one of several categories. Cymbalta is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). The SNRIs work by restoring balance in neurotransmitters. Patients benefit from taking Cymbalta through improved sleep patterns, moods and appetite, decreased anxiety, improved energy level and pain relief caused from damaged nerves.
2. Cymbalta not for Everyone
People who are allergic to duloxetine should not take it, and people who have a history of kidney or liver disease should tell their doctor. Other health problems that you should discuss with your doctor before taking Cymbalta are a family history of psychiatric disorders, such as bipolar disorder, suicide attempts, either personally or in family members, diabetes, stomach problems, low sodium, seizures, dehydration issues, and drug or alcohol abuse.
3. Watch for Cymbalta's Side Effects
Cymbalta may make you dizzy and/or drowsy, so be careful when driving. Alcohol can increase these effects, so it's best to avoid it while taking Cymbalta. Elderly people can be more sensitive to Cymbalta's side effects, so the doctor may need to adjust the dosage. Women who are pregnant or nursing should not take this drug. However, depression is a serious illness, and you should talk to your doctor if you become pregnant rather than suddenly stop taking Cymbalta. As with all antidepressants, a small percentage of people have increased thoughts of suicide, depression and mood changes. This is especially true of teenagers and young adults. Watch for changes in behavior, especially when first starting on Cymbalta or increasing the dosage.
4. Deadly Drug Interactions
Many medications don't mix with Cymbalta. And some drugs can cause a serious or fatal interaction, including MAO inhibitors, fluvoxamine, sibutramine, thioridazine and tryptophan. Taking Cymbalta with other drugs that increase serotonin levels can cause "serotonin syndrome." Symptoms include hallucinations, agitation, coma, rapid heart rate, blood pressure changes, fever, vomiting or diarrhea. The best way to prevent drug interactions is to have one pharmacy keep track of your medications, tell your doctors about all medications and read the patient information from the pharmacy.
5. Cymbalta Withdrawal
Cymbalta may cause physical dependence if it's used long-term or in high doses. The risk of side effects increases at higher doses. Your doctor may start you out low and gradually increase the Cymbalta dosage over time to monitor your response to the drug. It's typical for this drug to take two to four weeks before you feel all the benefits. To avoid withdrawal symptoms, ask your doctor for guidance on tapering off this drug. Cymbalta withdrawal symptoms include nightmares, nausea, vomiting, numbness, tingling and headaches.
