Does Cymbalta cause falls? (3+ precautions)

This article will explore the link between Cymbalta and falls, including research findings and tips for managing falls.

Does Cymbalta cause falls? 

Yes, Cymbalta can cause falls. The elderly population are at a higher risk of experiencing falls. Cymbalta-associated falls are a common side effect. However, the occurrence of this side effect varies among individuals as each person reacts to the medication differently. (1)

Cymbalta can be associated with dizziness, drowsiness, fatigue, vertigo, orthostatic hypertension, blurred vision, impaired balance and low sodium levels, which can contribute to falls. Studies have shown that people taking Cymbalta have experienced a higher rate of falls when compared to placebo. (1)

A few lifestyle modifications and adjustments in the treatment regimen can manage falls associated with Cymbalta. If you have been experiencing falls after initiation with Cymbalta, consult your physician for proper management and avoid abrupt discontinuation, as it can cause withdrawal symptoms and worsen your condition. 

What does the research suggest? 

Cymbalta (Duloxetine) is an antidepressant belonging to the group of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Cymbalta acts by increasing the levels of serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine levels in the brain. An increase in these neurotransmitters helps treat depression, anxiety disorders, fibromyalgia and chronic pain. (2)

The study conducted by Nelson et al. examined the incidence of falls in elderly patients who were treated with duloxetine, and they found that about 17.3% of patients experienced falls when treated with 60mg of duloxetine. When the treatment was given for a longer duration (24 weeks), 24% of the patients experienced falls. When compared to the placebo-treated population, the drug-treated population experienced a higher number of falls. (3)

Psychiatric drugs such as antidepressants, anxiolytics and sedatives have an increased incidence of falls in elderly patients. (3) Another study by Yu-Seon Jung et al. found that duloxetine, escitalopram, paroxetine, amitriptyline, imipramine and trazodone have an increased risk of falls. (4)

Why does Cymbalta cause falls? 

Falls associated with antidepressants are common and usually commence around the first week of antidepressant use. Studies have shown that orthostatic hypertension, hyponatremia, etc, can also contribute to falls in individuals taking Cymbalta. 

Antidepressants bring fluctuations in neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. These neurotransmitters can affect neural pathways, which are crucial for balance, coordination and movement control. Studies have shown an increased level of dopamine can cause alteration in balance, movements and coordination, which can cause falls. (5)

Increased serotonin and norepinephrine levels can influence various regions of the brain, such as the cerebellum, brainstem, vestibular system, etc, which can lead to dizziness and drowsiness, which can contribute to falls. 

What are the factors contributing to Cymbalta-induced falls? 

There are many other risk factors which can cause falls in individuals taking Cymbalta, such as (6)

• Age-related vision, hearing and memory impairment 
• Dizziness
• Drop attacks
• Postural or orthostatic hypertension 
• Weak grip strength
• low body weight 
• CNS disorders such as cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, stroke, etc. 
• Cognitive deficits 
• Alcohol consumption
• Anemia
• Low sodium levels
• Hypothyroidism 
• Severe osteoporosis 
• Acute illness
• Severe depression
• Polypharmacy
• Medications such as antidepressants, anxiolytics, sedatives, etc. 

What to do if Cymbalta causes falls? 

If you are experiencing falls, the first thing you should do is consult your physician. If the drug is the cause, your physician may taper the drug and discontinue it. Sudden discontinuation of the drug can cause withdrawal symptoms and worsen your condition.

Falls can be associated with other health conditions and factors. Hence, it is important to get evaluated for any underlying cause of falls. Get a full health examination if you are experiencing an increased number of falls even after discontinuing your treatment with Cymbalta. Cymbalta usually causes falls at the beginning of the treatment, which subsides as you get used to the drug.

What are the safety measures to take if you experience falls? 

You can manage falls by following a few simple measures such as: 

• When feeling dizzy or prone to falls, stand up or get up slowly from a lying position.
• Avoid standing for long periods, take small breaks and rest. 
• Use a cane or walker for support if you have balance problems. 
• Make your surroundings a safer place by removing tripping hazards such as clutter, loose rugs, lighting, etc. 
• Exercise regularly, which can help improve balance and strength and reduce the risk of falls. 
• Consult a physical therapist who will help you develop a personalised exercise program to improve stability and reduce the risk of falls. 
• Dehydration can cause dizziness and falls, so stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Manage stress by practising meditation, deep breathing and yoga. 
• Exercise caution while operating machinery and driving. 
• Eat food with nutrition and take supplements such as multivitamins to help you with your strength. 

In my opinion, Cymbalta can cause falls, especially in elderly patients. However, falls can be caused by other factors, such as medical conditions, medications, etc. It is important to evaluate the cause of the side effect before treating it. 

Cymbalta-associated falls can be treated by discontinuing the drug. It is important to remember that discontinuation of Cymbalta requires careful tapering and monitoring to avoid withdrawal symptoms. Make sure you consult your physician if you are experiencing any side effects after taking Cymbalta. 

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