Can Cymbalta cause IBS? (+3 factors)
By
Ivan Kahwa
Author bio
Mr Ivan Kahwa is a chemist and phytopharmaceutical scientist with expertise in chemistry, pharmacology, phytochemistry, and Nanobiotechnology. He writes and reviews content on these topics.
Mr Ivan Kahwa’s Highlights:
Guest Researcher at the University of Leipzig, Senior Research Fellow/Scientist, and Lecturer at the Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Professional Experience:
Mr Ivan joined PHARMBIOTRAC as a research fellow/scientist during his master of science tenure. He contributed to the development of most of the phytopharmaceutical products in the project. Furthermore, he participated in carrying out the pharmacological activities of the developed products in laboratory animals such as mice and rats in order to develop proper doses hence leading to pre-clinical studies.
With the above relevant research experience, Ivan started to work with the University of Leipzig on collaborative projects with Mbarara University to develop the chemistry of Ugandan Medicinal plants and their pharmacological activities. This was coupled with several consultative positions by different German NGOs. Mr. Kahwa is also a supporting in the teaching and learning at the Departments of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
With the increase in antimicrobial resistance globally, Ivan retooled his thinking towards developing new naturally derived antibiotic regimens from Ugandan propolis with the assistance of nanotechnology to improve their delivery to microbial cells. Kahwa has also published over 28 articles in peer-reviewed journals and he is currently reviewing for many journals.
Education:
2023-2027: PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (ongoing) with a focus on Pharmaceutical Microbiology and Nanobiology at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2022: 2Msc. in Pharmacognosy and Natural Medicine Science at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
2018: Bachelor of Science (Chemistry) at Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
Publications:
▪ Iqbal, S., Jabeen, F., Kahwa, I., & Omara, T. 2023. Suberosin Alleviates Thiazolidinedione-Induced Cardiomyopathy in Diabetic Rats by Inhibiting Ferroptosis via Modulation of ACSL4-LPCAT3 and PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathways. Cardiovascular Toxicology. https://doi.org/10.1007/s12012-023-09804-7
▪ Gupta, A. K., Yadav, R., Sharma, S., Sawale, J., & Kahwa, I. 2023. Anti-ageing Activity and Antioxidant Activity of Methanol Extracts of Leaves and Flowers of Salvia officinalis and Rosmarinus officinalis. Journal of Young Pharmacists, 15(3), 448–455. https://doi.org/10.5530/jyp.2023.15.60
▪ Tolo, C.U., Kahwa, I., Nuwagira, U., Weisheit, A. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Medicinal plants used in treatment of various diseases in the Rwenzori Region, Western Uganda. Ethnobotany Research and Applications, 25, pp.1-16.
https://ethnobotanyjournal.org/index.php/era/article/view/4683
▪ Kahwa, I., Ajayi, C.O., Yadav, R., Chauhan, N.S., Shah, K., Abdelgadir, A.A., Shegena, E.A., Daniel, S., Omara, T., Asiimwe, J.B. and Ikiriza, H., 2023. Pharmacognostic and phytochemical studies as an invaluable approach for correct identification of medicinal plants: The case of Artemisia vulgaris L. substituted for Artemisia annua L. in Western Uganda. TMR Integr Med, 7, p.e23004.
https://doi.org/10.53388/TMRIM202307004
▪ Nalimu, F., Oloro, J., Kahwa, I. and Ogwang, P.E., 2021. Review on the phytochemistry and toxicological profiles of Aloe vera and Aloe ferox. Future Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, 7, pp.1-21.
https://doi.org/10.1186/s43094-021-00296-2
▪ Elamin, O.H.S., Ali, M.A., Elgezuli, I.A.A., Bashir, M.A. and Kahwa, I., 2021. Diagnosis of pre-and post-treatment of echinococcus granulosus with counter current immune electrophoresis and bacterial co-agglutination. Journal of Microbiology and Infectious Diseases, 11(02), pp.88-94.
https://doi.org/10.5799/jmid.951600
Published book Chapter
▪ Kahwa, I., Ayesiga, I., Nakalema, S., Alinaiswe, R., Mbabazi, R. and Iqbal, S., 2023. Natural products in the management of onchocerciasis. In Natural Products in Vector-Borne Disease Management (pp. 63-80). Academic Press. Book Chapter.
https://doi.org/10.1016/B978-0-323-91942-5.00012-4
Submitted manuscripts Under Review:
▪ Comparison of the Wound Healing Activity of the Leaf and Leaf Ash Extracts of Vernonia amygdalina in Rats. Journal name: Clinical Phytoscience
▪ Ethnobotanical Survey of Medicinal plants used in the management of cancer in Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Herbal Medicine
▪ Ethnobotanical survey and phytochemical screening of medicinal plants used in treatment of epilepsy by PROMETRA-Uganda Traditional Health Practitioners in Mpigi District, Uganda. Journal name: Journal of Ethnopharmacology
Submitted book chapters under review
1.Book title: Algae as a Natural Solution for Water-Food-Energy Nexus, Section 4: Microalgae and cyanobacteria for food applications, Chapter 4.6: Safety, toxicological and allergenic aspects of using algae for food. Authors: Christine Kyarimpa, Tom Omute, Caroline K. Nakiguli, Alice V. Khanakwa4, Christopher Angiro, Ivan Kahwa, Fortunate Ahumuza, Timothy Omara*. Publisher: Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 152 Beach Road, #21-01/04 Gateway East, Singapore 189721, Singapore.
2.Book title: Nutraceuticals Inspiring the Contemporary Therapy for Lifestyle Diseases. Chapter: Nutraceutical applications of Seaweeds and their Phytocompounds in Nutrition and Treatment of Diseases. Authors: Ivan Kahwa, Timothy Omara , Innocent Ayesiga , Gael Noel Neh Neba Ambe , Zehbanaz Javidbhai Panwala , Rachel Mbabazi , Shabnoor Iqbal , Christine Kyarimpa , Christine Betty Nagawa , Kamal Shah ,Nagendra Singh Chauhan* Publisher: CRC Press
You can view my works on the following professional sites:
Research Gate: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Ivan-Kahwa
Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=tOwrvqoAAAAJ&hl=en
ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6440-3437
Linkedin: https://de.linkedin.com/in/ivan-kahwa-865450159
This article will discuss whether Cymalta causes irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). We will also discuss the research studies on the link between Cymbalata and IBS. Additionally, we will discuss the factors that may increase the risk of developing IBS while taking Cymbalta and the treatment strategies for IBS.
Can Cymbalta cause IBS?
No, Cymbalta does not cause irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Instead, Cymbalta can be used in the management of IBS.
Cymbalta is an antidepressant medication that is frequently employed in the management of various health conditions such as depression, anxiety, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain. The mechanism behind its therapeutic benefits may involve its interference with the neurotransmitters in the brain.
It increases the levels of norepinephrine and serotonin in the brain, which are responsible for the regulation of mood and behavior in individuals with underlying mental disorders (1).
Cymbalta may cause certain mild to moderate side effects in individuals such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, upset stomach, appetite changes, and weight changes. However, it is not linked to the development of irritable bowel syndrome.
What does research suggest?
While there is no research evidence directly linking the use of Cymbalta to the development of IBS, several studies have explored its potential role in managing various symptoms associated with this gastrointestinal disorder.
In a research study, Cymbalta was administered to manage IBS symptoms in patients without any mental disorder, at a daily dosage of 60 mg. The results demonstrated the effectiveness of Cymbalta in managing pain, bowel movements, and irritability associated with IBS. However, due to its adverse effect of constipation, some patients discontinued the medication (2).
In another study, Cymbalta was used for managing IBS symptoms in patients with underlying anxiety. The study aimed to evaluate the potential dual benefits of Cymbalta by addressing both anxiety-related symptoms and those associated with IBS.
The results demonstrated the effectiveness of Cymbalta in managing not only the symptoms of anxiety but also the specific symptoms related to IBS (3).
What factors may increase the risk of IBS while taking Cymbalta?
Several factors may increase the risk of the development of IBS while taking Cymbalta. However, these factors may not be related to Cymbalta. Such factors may include:
Underlying health conditions: Certain underlying health conditions may heighten the risk of developing IBS while using Cymbalta such as Crohn’s disease and gastroenteritis. However, it’s essential to emphasize that research studies have indicated the effectiveness of Cymbalta in managing IBS symptoms in some individuals.
Therefore, employing Cymbalta in patients with underlying IBS may offer additional benefits to those undergoing mental health treatment with this medication.
Concurrent medications: The concurrent use of medications such as antibiotics or NSAIDs that may cause irritable bowel syndrome or its associated symptoms as potential side effects may increase the risk of developing IBS while taking Cymbalta. In such cases, the discontinuation of these medications may be proven effective for the management of IBS.
Lifestyle factors: Several lifestyle factors have been identified that may contribute to the development or exacerbation of symptoms while taking Cymbalta. These factors may include irregular eating patterns, stress, lack of physical activity, less water intake, insufficient sleep, and alcohol consumption.
It is important to note that while these factors may increase the risk of development of irritable bowel syndrome while taking Cymbalta, these factors may not be necessarily linked to Cymbalta use. Your healthcare provider may identify the risk factors of your IBS to effectively manage your symptoms.
What to do if IBS occurs while taking Cymbalta?
If you experience any symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome, while taking Cymbalta, you should consult your healthcare provider. They may assess your condition and determine the cause of your symptoms. If the symptoms you’re experiencing are linked to the use of Cymbalta, they may consider adjusting the dosage or discontinuing the medication based on the severity of your symptoms.
However, if the underlying risk factors are responsible for your symptoms, your healthcare provider may eradicate those factors first to ensure the safety of your treatment.
In some cases, the administration of Cymbalta for mental disorders may prove beneficial to managing the symptoms of underlying IBS as well. However, if this medication does not improve your symptoms, your healthcare provider may prescribe specific medications for managing irritable bowel syndrome and its associated symptoms.
What are the treatment options for IBS?
The treatment strategies for irritable bowel syndrome may involve a combination of lifestyle modifications, dietary changes, and, in some cases, medications.
Medications: Medications for irritable bowel syndrome are used for symptomatic relief in individuals with IBS. Medications such as dicyclomine may help to relax the muscles in the digestive tract, potentially reducing abdominal pain and cramping associated with IBS.
In cases where abdominal pain is a significant symptom, a healthcare provider may prescribe an antidepressant like amitriptyline to help manage pain and improve symptoms.
Additionally, for individuals with IBS who experience constipation as a predominant symptom, a healthcare provider may recommend a specific type of laxative, such as polyethylene glycol, to help regulate bowel movements.
Lifestyle changes: Lifestyle modifications including, gradually increasing dietary fiber, stress management exercises, adequate water intake, and reducing the intake of spicy food can contribute to the management of symptoms of IBS.
To my knowledge, Cymbalta does not cause IBS, instead, it may be recommended to manage IBS symptoms in individuals with underlying mental disorders. It’s important for individuals with IBS to work closely with their healthcare providers to develop a personalized treatment plan.
Was this helpful?
References
1.-
Dhaliwal JS, Spurling BC, Molla M. Duloxetine. 2023 May 29. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 31747213. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31747213/
2.-
Brennan BP, Fogarty KV, Roberts JL, Reynolds KA, Pope HG Jr, Hudson JI. Duloxetine in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome: an open-label pilot study. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2009 Jul;24(5):423-8. doi: 10.1002/hup.1038. PMID: 19548294. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19548294/
3.-
Kaplan A, Franzen MD, Nickell PV, Ransom D, Lebovitz PJ. An open-label trial of duloxetine in patients with irritable bowel syndrome and comorbid generalized anxiety disorder. Int J Psychiatry Clin Pract. 2014 Jan;18(1):11-5. doi: 10.3109/13651501.2013.838632. Epub 2013 Sep 20. PMID: 23980534. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23980534/
Find a supportive therapist who can help with Depression.
Discover the convenience of BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connecting you with licensed and accredited therapists specialized in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, and more. Complete the assessment and find your ideal therapist within just 48 hours.
AskYourPharm is user-supported. We may earn a commission if you sign up for BetterHelp’s services after clicking through from this site
