Cymbalta / Yentreve (generic name: duloxetine) is an antidepressant that acts on brain chemicals that may be imbalanced. It belongs to a category of medications known as selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). Its purpose is to boost serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the body. SNRIs can be helpful for severe depression and specific anxiety conditions, and might also alleviate chronic pain.
In most cases, the effects of Cymbalta will start to be felt after 2-4 weeks.
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If a person suspects they or someone they care about might be suffering from depression, it is essential to get professional help. This is especially important when a person is experiencing suicidal or self-harm thoughts. There is an easy-to-remember three-digit 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which operates 24/7, allowing people experiencing substance abuse, suicide, and/or mental health crises to connect with trained counselors.
Dosage
The prescribing doctor will decide the correct dose and may adjust it as needed. The typical doses for the different conditions are:
- For diabetic nerve pain: 60 mg of Cymbalta once a day.
- For chronic pain and anxiety: Most patients are given 60 mg daily. Some may start with 30 mg for a week, then switch to 60 mg.
- For depression: Typically, 60 mg daily. Some prescriptions may start with 30 mg daily for a week, then switch to 60 mg. For older adults, the dose is usually 30 mg once a day for two weeks before it is increased to 60 mg once a day.
- For fibromyalgia: 30 mg of Cymbalta daily for a week, then 60 mg daily.
Cymbalta should be swallowed whole with water; don’t chew or open the capsule. Do not open the capsule and sprinkle the contents on food or mix with liquids as this can destroy the effect of duloxetine.
Storage
Keep Cymbalta out of reach and sight of children to avoid accidental poisoning. Do not use the medication past the expiration date indicated on the packaging and take ccare to store it in a place with temperatures below 77°F (25°C).
Please read our helpful tips on handling medicine safely.
Q&A
What to avoid while on Cymbalta?
Alcohol and caffeine should be avoided while taking Cymbalta.
Can Cymbalta cause weight gain?
A
2015 review concluded that duloxetine might cause limited weight loss in the first few weeks of treatment. This was followed by modest weight gain during long-term treatment. Once use had stopped, most subjects lost almost all the weight that was gained.
What not to eat with Cymbalta?
There are no documented food interactions with Cymbalta. Generally, a person taking Cymbalta can maintain their regular diet without impact, but should keep an eye on the intake of alcohol and caffeine.
This text is for informational purposes only. Please consult a doctor or pharmacist before using any medication.Â
Read the information leaflet that comes with the medication.
Most people who use Cymbalta do not experience any negative side effects. Doctors prescribe Cymbalta because they assess that the benefits that such treatment yields outweigh any likely unwanted effects.
Cymbalta can cause some minor side effects, including dry mouth, drowsiness, tired feeling, mild nausea or loss of appetite or constipation. If these persist or get worse, talk to a healthcare provider of pharmacist.
If after taking a dose there is a sudden allergic reaction (anaphylaxis), with symptoms like swelling of the face, tongue or throat making it difficult to breathe or swallow, or there is wheezing, hives, rash, blistering or peeling of the skin, call a doctor or 911 right away, or go to a hospital emergency room immediately.
Angle Closure Glaucoma, showing as the widening of the pupils, can be an effect of antidepressants like Cymbalta in patients with naturally narrow angles who have not had surgery to remove the iris.
Sexual dysfunction or worries regarding sexual problems while taking Cymbalta should be discussed with the doctor, who may recommend some treatments.
Any new or worsening symptoms such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if there are impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically) feelings, more profound depression, or increased thoughts about suicide or self-harm should be reported to the prescribing doctor as soon as possible.
Pay attention to the “Black Box Warning” in the Cymbalta package. Like most antidepressants, Cymbalta may trigger suicidal thoughts and behavior in children, adolescents and adults under the age of 24. Therefore, patients should be monitored closely for changes in mood and behavior and the emergence of such symptoms.
Failure to read and follow the information on the manufacturer’s Product Insert leaflet that comes with the medication can carry serious health risks. Please be aware that not all possible side effects can be listed here. If any of these or other unexpected side effects are experienced, consult a healthcare provider immediately.
Cymbalta is can be prescribed for adults with:
- Major depressive disorder (MDD) or what is commonly known as severe depression. This is characterized by persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, and a lack of interest or enjoyment in usual activities. These symptoms can linger for extended periods
- Nerve pain from diabetes
- Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD) including uncontrollable worries and anxiety about everyday issues, consuming a significant amount of time and affecting work, home and relationships
- Fibromyalgia
- Long-lasting muscle or joint pain when other treatments didn’t work.