Does Ativan Interact With Cymbalta? (+3 Side Effects)

By Ivan Kahwa

Page last updated: 05/02/2024 | Next review date: 05/02/2026

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

Ivan Kahwa

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This article focuses on the interaction between Ativan and Cymbalta, discussing the potential risks and side effects of taking these medications together. It will explore the importance of close monitoring and precautions to minimize side effects of combining these drugs.

Does Ativan interact with Cymbalta?

Yes, Ativan does interact with Cymbalta. The combination of these drugs should be used cautiously to avoid potentially serious and unwanted side effects.

Cymbalta is an antidepressant medication that belongs to the class of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. It works by increasing the levels of these neurotransmitters in the brain. It is frequently prescribed in the management of various medical conditions such as anxiety, depression, and fibromyalgia(1).

On the other hand, Ativan (Lorazepam) is an anxiolytic medication that works by increasing the activity of gamma-aminobutyric acid in the brain. It is used in clinical settings for the management of seizures and anxiety disorders (2).

Ativan and Cymbalta are typically not combined for routine treatment. However, in certain cases, healthcare providers may prescribe them together as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for managing severe anxiety or depression.

What does research suggest?

The combined use of Ativan and Cymbalta may pose potential risks and lead to serious side effects, as documented in research studies.

A research study reported a case involving an elderly woman who was prescribed Ativan and Cymbalta concurrently for the management of anxiety disorder. Within a week of starting the combined treatment, the patient developed hallucinations. Upon discontinuing the medications, the hallucinations subsided within a day (3).

Another study reported an incident where a patient with underlying depression was prescribed a combination of Ativan and Cymbalta. Following a single dose of this combination, the patient experienced severe vomiting and headache. As a result, the decision was made to discontinue the use of Cymbalta (4).

What are the side effects of taking Ativan and Cymbalta together?

If you have been prescribed to take Ativan and Cymbalta together, it is important to know about the possible health risks and side effects that may occur due to this combination. Some of the side effects of the combination of Cymbalta and Ativan may include:

Nausea and vomiting

The concurrent administration of Ativan and Cymbalta may lead to an intensified modulation of neurotransmitters, increasing the likelihood of gastrointestinal discomfort such as nausea and vomiting.

These are commonly reported side effects associated with both Ativan and Cymbalta when taken individually. When used in combination, there is a potential for these side effects to be more pronounced.

Hepatotoxicity

The combination of Ativan and Cymbalta raises concerns about potential hepatotoxicity, indicating the possibility of liver damage. Both medications undergo hepatic metabolism, and when used together, there may be an increased risk of adverse effects on the liver.

Healthcare providers should prescribe this combination cautiously and, when prescribed, regularly monitor liver function. They should also consider alternative treatments if there are signs of hepatic impairment.

Central nervous system (CNS) side effects

The combination of Ativan and Cymbalta has the potential for additive effects on the CNS. The most common CNS effects associated with the combined use of Ativan and Cymbalta may include:

dizziness
drowsiness
sedation
dementia
irritability
hallucinations

According to research, the combined use of Ativan and Cymbalta potentially increases the risk of hallucinations, negatively impacting the quality of life (3).

These CNS effects highlight the importance of cautious monitoring when using Ativan and Cymbalta concurrently, particularly in patients with underlying mental health conditions such as anxiety or depression.

How to ensure the safe use of Ativan and Cymbalta together?

To ensure the safe and effective use of Cymbalta and Ativan combination, it is crucial to follow these guidelines:

Consult with your healthcare provider before combining Ativan and Cymbalta. They can assess your medical history, potential drug interactions, and determine the most suitable treatment plan for your individual needs.

Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Ativan and Cymbalta, as it can amplify the CNS adverse effects associated with these medications.

Implement positive lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a regular sleep pattern, to contribute to overall well-being and treatment effectiveness.

Be vigilant for hallucinations, a potential side effect, and report any unusual experiences promptly to your healthcare provider. Do not stop taking either medication abruptly.

Abrupt discontinuation, especially with Cymbalta, may lead to withdrawal symptoms or other complications. Follow your healthcare provider’s guidance for tapering off if needed.

Be aware of potential interactions and side effects. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects, promptly communicate with your healthcare provider. Regular monitoring helps ensure early detection and intervention if necessary.

In my opinion, the combination of Ativan and Cymbalta should be avoided to prevent unwanted side effects. In clinical settings, this combination is only used when the benefits of this combination outweigh its risks.

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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.-

Ghiasi N, Bhansali RK, Marwaha R. Lorazepam. 2023 Jan 31. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 30422485. ahttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30422485/

3.-

Rolma G, Jelcic N, Gnoato F, Cecchin D, Cagnin A. Combined duloxetine and benzodiazepine-induced visual hallucinations in prodromal dementia with Lewy bodies. Gen Hosp Psychiatry. 2013 Nov-Dec;35(6):678.e7-9. doi: 10.1016/j.genhosppsych.2013.02.005. Epub 2013 Mar 22. PMID: 23523020. achttps://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23523020/

4.-

Kozumplik, Oliver & Uzun, Suzana & Jakovljevic, Miro. (2012). P-1092 – Occurence of side effects during treatment of patient with depressive disorder: case report. European Psychiatry. 27. 1. 10.1016/S0924-9338(12)75259-8. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/271612867

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Does Ativan interact with Cymbalta? (+3 side effects)