What is Cymbalta?
Cymbalta with the active ingredient duloxetine belongs to a class of medications called selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI). It works by increasing the amounts of certain natural substances in the brain to maintain mental balance. It is mainly prescribed to treat major depressive disorders and general anxiety disorders. Some people may also use the medication to treat fibromyalgia, diabetic neuropathy and osteoarthritis.
How is Cymbalta used?
Cymbalta is usually taken orally 1 to 2 times per day or as directed by a doctor. To prevent nausea, the capsule should be taken with some food along with some water. Contact a doctor for the correct dosage as it will depend on the condition being treated and the patient’s response to the medication. The capsule should be taken whole and not chewed, broken or crushed to prevent too much of the medication from being released at one time. Do not discontinue the treatment without consulting a doctor as abruptly stopping the treatment can lead to unpleasant withdrawal symptoms.
Warnings
Do not take Cymbalta within 5 days before or 14 days after you have used a MAO inhibitor, such as isocarboxazid, linezolid, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, or tranylcypromine, or methylene blue injection.
Cymbalta should not be used if you have narrow angle glaucoma.
Some young people have thoughts about suicide when first taking an antidepressant. Stay alert to changes in your mood or symptoms. Report any new or worsening symptoms to your doctor, such as: mood or behavior changes, anxiety, panic attacks, trouble sleeping, or if you feel impulsive, irritable, agitated, hostile, aggressive, restless, hyperactive (mentally or physically), more depressed, or have thoughts about suicide or hurting yourself.
Adverse effects
Patients using Cymbalta may encounter unwanted side effects such as:
Nausea
Dry mouth
Constipation
Drowsiness
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Diarrhea
Contact a doctor immediately should side effects persist or encounter more severe side effects such as:
Jaundice
Unusual bruising or bleeding
Confusion
Flu like symptoms
Rigid muscles
Blurred vision
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Seizures
Warnings
The medication may increase blood pressure, check your blood pressure regularly and tell your doctor of any high results.
Immediately proceed to your nearest emergency department if you suffer an allergic reaction. Symptoms usually associated with such a reaction include difficulty breathing or swallowing, chest tightness, swelling, skin rashes, and hives.
Cymbalta is not always suitable for all patients. Always consult your health care provider prior to using this medication if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, using any other medication (prescription or non-prescription), using any herbal products or supplements, or if you have any allergies or other health problems.
The correct dosage and prescription commonly depend on the patient and the condition being treated. Do not adjust your dosage without the approval of your health care provider. This product is only for use as prescribed and instructed.
