Does Cymbalta cause bad breath? (+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
In this article, we will discuss the Cymbalta-induced bad breath. We will explore the research studies linking Cymbalta use to bad breath. Additionally, we will discuss the factors that may contribute to bad breath while taking Cymbalta as well as the management tips for Cymbalta-induced bad breath.
Does Cymbalta cause bad breath?
Yes, Cymbalta may cause bad breath in some individuals. However, it is not a common side effect of Cymbalta but there are some research studies suggesting a link between Cymbalta and bad breath.
Cymbalta is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor anti-depressant medication which is commonly known as Duloxetine. It is frequently prescribed for the management of anxiety, depression, and fibromyalgia (1).
The side effects associated with this medication are usually mild to moderate such as nausea, vomiting, headache, fatigue, and dizziness, however, it may also cause serious side effects in some individuals, based on their sensitivity to the medication and overall well-being.
How does Cymbalta cause bad breath?
Cymbalta may contribute to bad breath by causing dry mouth which is a common side effect of Cymbalta. Low saliva levels during xerostomia may increase the risk of bacterial infections in the mouth which are usually prevented by the acid-neutralizing action of saliva. Some bacteria may produce volatile sulfur-containing compounds in the mouth which may cause bad breath (2).
What does research suggest?
There is only limited research on the bad breath caused by Cymbalta because it is a rare side effect of this medication which may not occur in all the individuals who take this medication.
However, Cymbalta is commonly associated with inducing dry mouth as a potential side effect. Dry mouth, characterized by reduced saliva production, is associated with an increased risk of bad breath. The resultant imbalance in oral flora, coupled with diminished saliva’s natural cleansing properties, can contribute to the proliferation of odor-producing bacteria, potentially leading to bad breath (2).
A research study demonstrated that, Cymbalta induced dry mouth in 14% of patients with underlying depression which subsequently caused halitosis in some patients (3).
What factors may contribute to Cymbalta-induced bad breath?
Several factors may increase the risk of bad breath while taking Cymbalta, these factors may include:
Dry mouth: Dry mouth is a common side effect associated with Cymbalta, serving as a risk factor for causing and exacerbating bad breath. Reduced water intake and dehydration may intensify dry mouth while taking Cymbalta, further increasing the likelihood of bad breath.
Dietary factors: Bad breath is also associated with certain dietary choices such as using garlic and onion with meals. Diets rich in sugary or acidic foods can also contribute to bacterial proliferation and increase the risk of bad breath.
Unhygienic lifestyle: Inadequate oral hygiene allows the accumulation of food particles, promoting bacterial growth which may increase the risk of bad breath while taking Cymbalta.
What to do if Cymbalta causes bad breath?
Bad breath is a rare side effect of Cymbalta, which does not require any pharmacological treatment or intervention. It is more common during the initial phase of treatment and subsides as the body adjusts to the medication.
However, if you experience unbearable bad breath while taking Cymbalta, it is important to consult your healthcare provider.
Your healthcare provider may recommend mouth fresheners or scented mouthwashes that can help reduce the bad breath associated with Cymbalta. Additionally, it is important to follow good oral hygiene practices, such as cleaning your teeth with a suitable toothpaste twice daily.
Bad breath often occurs due to a dry mouth, which can be exacerbated by dehydration. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help combat dry mouth and subsequent bad breath.
If the bad breath associated with the use of Cymbalta is affecting your quality of life, your healthcare provider may recommend dosage adjustment or, in rare cases, an alternative medication. However, it is important
What are alternatives to Cymbalta if it causes bad breath?
There are some other medications that can be used instead of Cymbalta to manage medical conditions for which Cymbalta is prescribed. These medications, such as fluvoxamine, escitalopram, and sertraline, are less likely to cause bad breath.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that everyone responds differently to medications and these alternatives may also have their own side effects. Before switching to a different medication, it’s important to weigh the risks and benefits of both treatments.
If the benefits of continuing with the same medication outweigh the risks, it may be recommended to make slight modifications to the treatment plan to provide additional benefits and avoid unwanted side effects.
In my opinion, bad breath can occur while taking antidepressant medications including Cymbalta due to their potential to cause dry mouth. However, you should never risk your mental health by discontinuing a medication just because it causes bad breath.
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.-
Daly C. Oral and dental effects of antidepressants. Aust Prescr. 2016 Jun;39(3):84. doi: 10.18773/austprescr.2016.035. Epub 2016 Jun 1. PMID: 27350018; PMCID: PMC4919175. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4919175/
3.-
Brunton S, Wang F, Edwards SB, Crucitti AS, Ossanna MJ, Walker DJ, Robinson MJ. Profile of adverse events with duloxetine treatment: a pooled analysis of placebo-controlled studies. Drug Saf. 2010 May 1;33(5):393-407. doi: 10.2165/11319200-000000000-00000. PMID: 20397739. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20397739/
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
