Does Cymbalta cause insomnia? (5+ causes)
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 aim to answer the query: “Does Cymbalta cause insomnia?” Furthermore, we will discuss the related research findings, causes, and management of insomnia, and alternatives to Cymbalta.
Does Cymbalta cause insomnia?
Yes, Cymbalta may cause insomnia and it is a common adverse effect. Patients with depression may also experience sleep disturbances due to the illness itself. Although, insomnia is frequently reported with the use of antidepressants, not everyone taking Cymbalta may experience it.
Cymbalta is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) antidepressant that is FDA-approved to treat major depression, anxiety, fibromyalgia, and different kinds of chronic pains in muscles or nerves from diabetes (1).
Other antidepressants such as Paxil, Celexa, Effexor, Zoloft, or Lexapro may also cause insomnia. Therefore, while using Cymbalta and other antidepressants it is necessary to be vigilant for any possible side effects and consult your doctor if you experience any of them.
Insomnia is a medical terminology used to describe sleep disturbances. A patient suffering from insomnia may find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. The underlying reasons behind insomnia may include depression or the medication given for medication (2).
What does research suggest about Cymbalta’s effect on sleep?
According to several research studies, Cymbalta’s effects on sleep were examined in adult patients with depression. Some patients experienced difficulty in falling asleep, and others felt very sleepy.
A few patients also had improvements in their sleep quality while taking Cymbalta. Although the sleep-related side effects were frequent with Cymbalta, they did not interfere with its effectiveness (3).
Another clinical study examined the sleep patterns of 10 patients before and after Cymbalta treatment for 7-14 days. It was found that the deep sleep phase improved significantly; however, it took longer to get into REM (rapid eye movement) which is the dreaming phase of sleep (4).
What are the causes of insomnia with Cymbalta?
The causes of insomnia with Cymbalta may include:
- When Cymbalta is started, it may take some time to adjust in the body and may affect sleep patterns in the initial phase.
- When the dose of Cymbalta is adjusted, it may result in sleep disturbances due to changing blood levels of the medication.
- Individuals who are sensitive to Cymbalta, are more prone to experience sleep-related side effects.
- The effects of Cymbalta on serotonin and norepinephrine, neurotransmitters in the brain, may impact sleep patterns.
- Conditions being treated with Cymbalta such as depression or anxiety can also cause sleep disturbances.
- Other factors such as lifestyle, workload, stress, change of place, or new job can also cause distress and insomnia in sensitive individuals (2).
How to manage insomnia associated with Cymbalta?
To manage insomnia associated with Cymbalta, you may try some management strategies. If you experience insomnia while taking Cymbalta, and it becomes bothersome, please consult your healthcare provider.
Your doctor may adjust your dose of Cymbalta according to your specific needs. In addition to these steps, you may try the following management strategies:
- Follow a good bedtime routine, and keep your bedroom environment calm and cosy to promote peaceful sleep.
- Avoid caffeine, nicotine, or other stimulants near your bedtime.
- Avoid using electronic gadgets or smartphones late at night.
- Incorporate relaxation techniques into your daily routine such as yoga, meditation, or breathing exercises.
- Cognitive behavioural therapy is also helpful to control your thoughts that disrupt your sleep (5).
What are the alternative antidepressants to Cymbalta?
The alternative antidepressants to Cymbalta may include Lexapro, Celexa, Paxil, Zoloft, and Effexor. These alternatives have relatively lower chances of causing insomnia but it is important to note that not everyone taking Cymbalta may experience insomnia with them.
The side effects of medications may vary from person to person. Your doctor may also prescribe antidepressants that have sedating effects such as Remeron or Desyrel. Your doctor may recommend some medicines to aid sleep such as Xanax, Klonopin, Ambien, or Lunesta. Ultimately, your healthcare provider will choose the best medication for you according to your specific needs.
As per my analysis, Cymbalta is commonly known to cause insomnia. However, it is important to note that not everyone may experience insomnia. Sleep disturbances may also occur as a symptom of depression and anxiety. If your insomnia persists, please reach out to your healthcare provider. They may suggest management strategies that may help you in getting proper sleep.
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References
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Dhaliwal JS, Spurling BC, Molla M. Duloxetine. 2023 May 29. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 31747213. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31747213/
2.-
Roth T. Insomnia: definition, prevalence, etiology, and consequences. J Clin Sleep Med. 2007 Aug 15;3(5 Suppl):S7-10. PMID: 17824495; PMCID: PMC1978319. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1978319/
3.-
Brecht S, Kajdasz D, Ball S, Thase ME. Clinical impact of duloxetine treatment on sleep in patients with major depressive disorder. Int Clin Psychopharmacol. 2008 Nov;23(6):317-24. doi: 10.1097/YIC.0b013e328306a987. PMID: 18854719. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18854719/
4.-
Kluge M, Schüssler P, Steiger A. Duloxetine increases stage 3 sleep and suppresses rapid eye movement (REM) sleep in patients with major depression. Eur Neuropsychopharmacol. 2007 Jul;17(8):527-31. doi: 10.1016/j.euroneuro.2007.01.006. Epub 2007 Mar 6. PMID: 17337164. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17337164/
5.-
Ng L, Cunnington D. Management of insomnia in primary care. Aust Prescr. 2021 Aug;44(4):124-128. doi: 10.18773/austprescr.2021.027. Epub 2021 Aug 2. Erratum in: Aust Prescr. 2021 Oct;44(5):177. PMID: 34421177; PMCID: PMC8377300. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34421177/
6.-
Wichniak A, Wierzbicka A, Walęcka M, Jernajczyk W. Effects of Antidepressants on Sleep. Curr Psychiatry Rep. 2017 Aug 9;19(9):63. doi: 10.1007/s11920-017-0816-4. PMID: 28791566; PMCID: PMC5548844. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5548844/
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