Cymbalta *

Description

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.

CALL 988 LIFELINE FOR SUPPORT!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.

DosageThe 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.

StorageKeep 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&AWhat 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.