Product Information
Cymbalta (Duloxetine) is approved by the FDA for the treatment of major depressive disorder, as well as for the management of diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP). Cymbalta (Duloxetine) offers relief from both the emotional and physical symptoms associated with depression.Cymbalta (Duloxetine) is a balanced and selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SSNRI). Cymbalta (Duloxetine) affects two naturally occurring chemicals in the brain and in the spinal cord, serotonin and norepinephrine. Research suggests that these chemicals play a role in both treating depression and in managing diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP).
Cymbalta (Duloxetine) comes in a capsule and can be taken once a day. The target daily dose for Cymbalta is 60 mg. However, your doctor may prescribe a different dose based on his or her medical judgment. Cymbalta is available in 20 mg, 30 mg and 60 mg capsules. Cymbalta is not recommended for those under 18.
Cymbalta (Duloxetine) is not a narcotic.
When Cymbalta (Duloxetine) is used for depression, the most common side effect was nausea. For most people, the nausea was mild to moderate, and usually subsided within one to two weeks.
Other most common Cymbalta (Duloxetine) side effects included:
Dry mouth
Constipation
Decreased appetite
Fatigue
Sleepiness
Increased sweating
Most people were not bothered enough by nausea or these Cymbalta (Duloxetine) side effects to stop taking Cymbalta.
Your doctor may periodically check your blood pressure while you are taking Cymbalta (Duloxetine). You should not stop taking Cymbalta (Duloxetine) without talking to your doctor.
Many people taking Cymbalta (Duloxetine) began to feel improvement in their symptoms as early as one to four weeks after starting Cymbalta (Duloxetine). As with any treatment, results vary from person to person.
You should NOT take Cymbalta (Duloxetine)if:
You are allergic to duloxetine hydrochloride or other ingredients in Cymbalta.
You currently or have recently taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI).
You have uncontrolled narrow-angle glaucoma.
You are taking Mellaril (thioridazine).
Tell your doctor if you:
Have liver or kidney problems or glaucoma.
Are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or nursing.
Consume large quantities of alcohol.
Are taking other prescription or nonprescription medications.
Cymbalta (Duloxetine) should be taken by mouth. Do not open, break or chew the capsule; Cymbalta (Duloxetine) must be swallowed whole.
Cymbalta (Duloxetine) can be taken with or without food.
If you miss a Cymbalta (Duloxetine) dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your regularly scheduled dose. Do not take more than the daily amount of Cymbalta (Duloxetine) that has been prescribed for you.
Cymbalta (Duloxetine) can cause side effects. The most common side effect was nausea. For most people, the nausea was mild to moderate and usually went away within 1-2 weeks.
Other common Cymbalta (Duloxetine) side effects included: dry mouth, constipation, decreased appetite, fatigue, sleepiness, and increased sweating. Most people were not bothered enough to stop taking Cymbalta.
Some people taking Cymbalta (Duloxetine)may experience an increase in blood pressure.
Cymbalta (Duloxetine) should not be stopped suddenly. Stopping Cymbalta suddenly may result in symptoms like dizziness, nausea or headache. Talk with your doctor before stopping Cymbalta as he or she may wish to decrease the dose slowly to help you avoid these kinds of symptoms.
One of the most recognized symptoms of depression is a profound feeling of sadness, hopelessness or emptiness. Often, people are surprised to learn that people with depression often experience physical symptoms too.
Some risk factors for depression include:
A family history of depression
Death or illness of a loved one
Stressful conflicts, such as fights with family members or disputes at work
Physical, sexual, or emotional abuse
Major life events, such as moving, graduating from college, changing jobs, getting married or divorced, becoming a new parent, or retiring
Financial difficulties
It is important to seek help if you think you are depressed.
