Cymbalta or duloxetine hydrochloride is an antidepressant that was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration in 2004. It's also commonly prescribed for anxiety disorders, diabetic neuropathy and fibromyalgia pain. It's a drug known as an SNRI (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor). These drugs work by increasing the amounts of serotonin and norepinephrine, natural substances in the brain that help reduce the movement of pain signals and help maintain mental balance.
Common Side Effects
A number of common side effects have been related to Cymbalta. Some of these may appear upon first taking the drug and lessen or go away completely during the course of treatment. If they persist or worsen, inform your doctor or pharmacist. Common side effects include dizziness, drowsiness, weakness, fatigue, headache, nausea, heartburn, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, decreased appetite, stomach pain, dry mouth, difficulty urinating, increased urination, sweating or night sweats, uncontrolled shaking, decrease in sexual desire, change in sexual ability and muscle pains or cramps.
Serious Side Effects
A number of more serious side effects have also been noted with Cymbalta: high fever, blurred vision, sweating, fast or irregular heartbeat, flu-like symptoms, severe muscle stiffness, confusion, extreme fatigue or weakness, unusual bruising or bleeding, abdominal swelling, pain in upper right stomach, dark urine, yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice), and black, bloody or tarry stool. If any of these occur, call a doctor immediately.
Psychological Side Effects
Cymbalta and other antidepressants may cause new or worsening psychological symptoms. The National Institutes of Health warns that a doctor should be contacted right away if a patient experiences these symptoms: extreme worry, agitation, panic attacks, irritability, aggressive or hostile behavior, acting without thinking, severe restlessness, frenzied abnormal excitement, new or worsening depression, thoughts of suicide or harm, difficulty falling or staying asleep, or any other unusual changes in behavior.
Serotonin Syndrome
Cymbalta may very rarely cause a serious condition known as serotonin syndrome. This is a potentially life-threatening condition that causes the body to have too much of the chemical serotonin. Serotonin syndrome occurs when two drugs that affect the body's level of serotonin are taken together. Taking Cymbalta with some other antidepressants, such as SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) and also with some triptans (migraine medications) may cause serotonin syndrome, according to the Mayo Clinic. Patients should discuss all other medications they are taking with their doctor before beginning treatment with Cymbalta.
Allergic Reaction
Serious allergic reactions to Cymbalta are rare. These may include rash; hives; itching; swelling of the face, tongue or throat; trouble breathing, and severe dizziness.
Member Comments