Cymbalta (Duloxetine)

Cymbalta (Duloxetine) Medication Information:

What is Cymbalta (Duloxetine)?

Cymbalta (Duloxetine) is an antidepressant with a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It is considered to perform by boosting the levels of serotonin and noradrenaline, two mood-enhancing substances in the brain.

What is Cymbalta (Duloxetine) used for?

Duloxetine is an antidepressant and anxiety medication. Duloxetine is also used to treat nerve discomfort (peripheral neuropathy) in patients who have diabetes or who have chronic pain from medical diseases such as arthritis, chronic back pain, or fibromyalgia (a condition that causes widespread pain). Duloxetine may help improve mood, sleep better, eat more, have more energy, and be less anxious.

How does Cymbalta (Duloxetine) work?

Duloxetine blocks serotonin and norepinephrine (NE) reuptake in the central nervous system. Duloxetine enhances dopamine (DA) in the frontal lobe, where DA reuptake pumps are limited, therefore by inhibiting NE reuptake pumps, they mediate DA and NE reuptake.

Direction:

How to take Cymbalta (Duloxetine)?

It is an oral tablet that is taken by mouth. It is usually prescribed 1 or 2 times a day, with or without food. Follow your doctor's instructions while taking Cymbalta. Read all medication instructions and follow all guidelines on your prescription label. Your doctor may adjust your dose from time to time. Do not crush, chew, break, or open the capsule; instead, swallow it whole.

What is the different dosage available?

The dosage is available as 30mg, 60 mg, 120mg oral tablets.

What is the recommended dosage?

The dosage is based on your age, medical condition, and response to treatment. To begin with, the doctor may advise 30mg tablet twice a day and then increase the dose to 60mg to improve the symptoms.

What is the maximum dosage?

The maximum dosage is 120mg in a day which is recommended or prescribed by a doctor during acute medical stages. 

What if you forget to give a dose of Cymbalta?

As soon as you recollect, take the missed dose. If the next dose is approaching, skip the missing dose and return to your regular dosing plan. To make up for a missing dose, do not take a double dose.

Cymbalta Precautions:

What should you know about Cymbalta (Duloxetine) before you start taking it?

If you are allergic to duloxetine, you should not use Cymbalta. If you've taken an MAO inhibitor like isocarboxazid, linezolid, methylene blue injection, phenelzine, or tranylcypromine in the last 5 days or 14 days, don't take Cymbalta. A harmful drug interaction may occur. Inform your doctor about your ongoing medical treatment like heart problems, high blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, or a seizure. 

Cymbalta Side Effects:

What are the side effects of Cymbalta (Duloxetine)?

Nausea, dry mouth, constipation, loss of appetite, tiredness, drowsiness, increased sweating, and dizziness are a few commonly reported side effects. If you observe any new or unexpected changes in your mood or behavior, such as new or worsening sadness, anxiety, or panic attacks, contact your doctor immediately.

Cymbalta Drug Interactions:

Does this medication interact with other drugs, foods, or alcohol?

Some medications when used in combination with Cymbalta can interact with blood potentially increasing side effects or making medications less effective. Before taking aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, Advil, Aleve, Motrin, or any other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine (NSAID), consult your doctor. Inform your doctor if you are taking any other prescribed medications, vitamins, and herbal products with Cymbalta speak with your healthcare physician.

Storage:

How should this medication be stored?

Cymbalta (Duloxetine) should be stored at room temperature (15ºC-30ºC)away from light, heat, moisture, and reach of the children. 

Other Important Information:

• Make sure no one else uses this medication without any prescription.
• Cymbalta (Duloxetine) is not approved for use by anyone younger than 7 years old.
• This medication has drug interactions therefore inform your doctor or pharmacist about your ongoing medical treatment if any. 
• This medication has the potential to increase your blood pressure. Regularly monitor your blood pressure and inform your doctor if the readings are too high.

FAQs:

What is the purpose of the Cymbalta (Duloxetine) tablet?

Duloxetine is an antidepressant and anxiety medication. Duloxetine is also used to treat nerve discomfort (peripheral neuropathy) in patients who have diabetes or who have chronic pain from medical diseases such as arthritis, chronic back pain, or fibromyalgia (a condition that causes widespread pain).

How fast does Cymbalta (Duloxetine) start working?

Symptoms like sleep, energy, and appetite, may show improvement in as little as 1-2 weeks. Symptoms like depression and a lack of interest in activities may take up to 6-8 weeks to go away. 

Is Cymbalta (Duloxetine) addictive or habit-forming?

No, Cymbalta (Duloxetine) will not make you addicted. But if used for prolonged time withdrawal symptoms can appear.

How can I prevent Cymbalta withdrawal symptoms?

The best method to avoid withdrawal symptoms like dizziness, nausea, and headache is to gradually discontinue taking Cymbalta over 2 to 4 weeks. If you wish to quit treatment, talk to your doctor first as they may gradually lower your dose before completely stopping.

Is it safe to use Cymbalta (Duloxetine) when pregnant?

Cymbalta has the potential to harm a pregnant woman. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your doctor before starting the treatment. If you develop any discomfort after using Cymbalta, stop using it immediately and consult your doctor.

Is it better to take duloxetine in the morning or the evening?

Cymbalta (Duloxetine) should be taken at the same time each day for better results. Most people take it in the morning, but if it makes you feel drowsy, consider taking it in the evening.