Cymbalta and/or Equivalents

Cymbalta (duloxetine)

Cymbalta Description

Duloxetine is a serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor sold under the trade name Cymbalta. The drug is manufactured and marketed by Eli Lily. There seems to be two schools of thought for users of Cymbalta: one group that vouches its positive effects in treating major depressive disorder and generalized anxiety disorder as well as diabetic neuropathy pain and fibromyalgia. The other community of users does not approve the use of this drug because of the many side effects it causes to users of the drug.

The drug was approved in 2004 by the US FDA and is available only under prescription. Cymbalta is available in the form of delayed release capsules: 20 mg opaque green capsules, 30 mg opaque blue and white capsules as well as 60 mg opaque blue and green capsules. Storing the capsules should be done at 25 degree Celsius.

Conditions Treated By Cymbalta

Cymbalta is used for treating multiple medical conditions and include the following: for treating major depressive disorder (MDD), generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), for management of fibromyalgia and diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain and for management of musculoskeletal pain (chronic) that includes chronic low back pain and chronic osteoarthritis pain. The drug affects chemicals in your brain that become unbalanced and result in depression.

Some of the off label uses of the drug include its usage in treating stress urinary incontinence. Its efficacy in the US is not studied but this is an approved use in Europe. The role of Cymbalta as tricyclic antidepressants and anticonvulsants has not yet been established.

Cymbalta Dosage Information

a.) Typical Dosage Recommendations

Cymbalta comes with enteric coating and therefore should be swallowed whole. It should neither be crushed nor should its contents mix with any food items. The drug can be taken without or with food. In the initial treatment of major depressive disorder, 40 mg of the drug is usually administered every day (two installments of 20 mg every day). 60 mg is also administered in certain cases in a similar way. The exact dosage recommended is decided by your doctor who assesses your medical condition thoroughly. In generalized anxiety disorder, the beginning dose will be 60 mg administered once every day. Some patients are put on lesser dosages initially for limited time frames to get them adjusted to the medication.

For treating diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain, 60 mg of Cymbalta is given once every day. A lower starting dose in this case is preferred because diabetes can be complicated by a kidney disease. Patients with fibromyalgia should take the medication starting with 30 mg once every day and gradually moving to 60 mg. The same dosage holds good for patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain.

b.) Missing a Dose

When you have forgotten to take a dose of Cymbalta, take it as soon as you remember to. But if it is time for the subsequent dose, then do not take the skipped one. Taking extra doses can result in harmful outcomes.

c.) Overdosing

Seeking medical attention as soon as possible is important if you think you are overdosed. Overdose symptoms can include fainting, light headedness, rapid heart rates, seizure, vomiting, drowsiness, loss of co-ordination, overactive reflexes, fever, hallucinations and agitation.

Cymbalta Warnings

Drinking alcohol can cause excessive liver damage. Alcohol when combined with Cymbalta can result in extreme drowsiness. The drug has every possibility to impair your thinking and reacting. Do not indulge in activities that require you to be alert or cautious. Suicidal thought and behavioral changes are characteristic symptoms that can become worse with the use of this drug. Cymbalta should be taken in the exact way your doctor prescribes you to. Neither large nor small amounts should be taken. This delayed release capsule should neither be opened, broken, chewed or crushed. Stopping the drug abruptly can result in unpleasant side effects.

The effects of Cymbalta on unborn babies are not known but the drug is reported to have caused some problems to new born babies especially when the pregnant mother has taken it during second or third trimesters. The ingredients in the medication can pass through breast milk to the baby and cause unpleasant side effects to the new born. Therefore, breast feeding mother are not recommended to take Cymbalta. Older adults are generally more sensitive to the effects caused by the drug. Similarly, Cymbalta should not be advised to anyone below 18 years of age without consulting the doctor.

Cymbalta Side Effects

Allergic reactions to Cymbalta can result in swellings on your face, skin rashes and hives and difficulty in breathing. When you notice any new symptoms that make you uncomfortable, make sure you contact your doctor immediately. Such symptoms can include suicidal thoughts, depression, state of being hyperactive, restlessness, aggression, hostility, irritability, impulsiveness and sleeping troubles. Few other signs include panic attacks, anxiety, behavioral and mood changes. Some serious side effects that can arise from taking Cymbalta include shallow breathing, seizures, fainting, unsteadiness, weakness and memory problems, headaches and concentration troubles.

Difficulty in urinating, unusual bleeding, rapid heartbeats, stiff muscles, confusion, sweating, high fever, pain in upper stomach, itching, jaundice, clay colored stools and dark urine are other typical symptoms. Less serious troubles include constipation, mild nausea, fatigue, dryness in mouth and drowsiness.

Possible Drug Interactions with Cymbalta

If you are taking medication for swelling, fever, arthritis or pain, inform your doctor before taking Cymbalta. Examples of such drugs include etodolac, nabumetone, piroxicam, indomethacin, diclofenac, naproxen, ibuprofen and aspirin. These drugs have the potential to induce bleeding easily. Cymbalta can cause drowsiness and therefore taking those drugs that are used for treating seizures, anxiety, muscle relaxation, inducing sleep, relieving pain and allergy medications along with it can add to the dizziness.

Specific drugs that are reported to have cause interactions with Cymbalta include Coumadin(warfarin), Tagamet(cimetidine), diuretics or water pills, Luvox(fluvoxamine), Zyvox(linezolid), Carbolith(lithium), St. John's Wort, Ultram(tramadol), Tryptophan, Cipro(ciprofloxacin), Zomig(Zolmitriptan), Maxalt(rizatriptan), Amerge(naratriptan), Imitrex(sumatriptan), Migrex(frovatriptan) and Axert(almotriptan). If you use antidepressants such as Paxil(paroxetine), Prozac(fluoxetine) or Norpramin(desipramine), you must inform your doctor accordingly. Some of the other drugs that can interfere with Cymbalta include Parnate(tranylcypromine), Eldepryl(selegiline), Azilect(rasagiline), Nardil(phenelzine), , Mellaril(thioridazine)

If you have any questions about buying discount Cymbalta online or any other prescription products you can contact our team of professional Patient Service Representatives or one of our pharmacists 24-7 by calling 1-800-226-3784.

Notice: The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Cymbalta and/or Equivalents warnings, side-effects and general information