Does Cymbalta cause memory loss? (3+ facts)
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 if Cymbalta causes memory loss, along with research findings. Additionally, we will also discuss the measures to manage Cymbalta-induced memory loss.
Does Cymbalta cause memory loss?
Yes, Cymbalta can cause memory loss. Memory loss associated with the use of Cymbalta is rare. However, some individuals may experience it at the beginning of the treatment, which subsides as the body gets used to the drug.
Cymbalta is an antidepressant which is used to treat depression, anxiety disorders, fibromyalgia and chronic pain syndromes. Cymbalta acts on neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine. Fluctuations in these neurotransmitters can influence cognition in some individuals. (1)
Impaired cognitive functioning can also be seen in high-dose Cymbalta treatment. If you are experiencing any unusual side effects after taking Cymbalta that affect your day-to-day activities, consult your physician for proper management.
What does the research suggest?
When elderly individuals take antidepressants, they may experience a higher likelihood of cognitive dysfunction. This can lead to issues with memory, attention, and decision-making. Cognitive dysfunction, such as memory loss, can be associated with other causes, such as intoxication, withdrawal from addiction-forming drugs, and abuse of drugs. (2)
Duloxetine does have some effect on memory formation and influences emotional memory. (3) Other antidepressants, such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), also have been shown to cause cognitive impairment, such as memory loss. (4)
There are few research studies that suggest serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) have more positive effects on cognitive dysfunction when compared to SSRIs. Duloxetine has been shown to improve performance in 4 cognitive tests, namely verbal learning, memory, selective attention and executive functioning in 8-week study trials. (5),(6)
Duloxetine has shown effectiveness in treating depression and anxiety symptoms by improving cognitive functioning. However, the negative effect of duloxetine on cognition is seen in individuals who do not respond to duloxetine treatment.
How does Cymbalta cause memory loss?
Cymbalta is an antidepressant which belongs to the class of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), which act by increasing the level of neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine and, to some extent, dopamine. Any fluctuations in these neurotransmitters can influence cognitive functioning, such as working memory, problem-solving, motor functions, etc. (1)
Antidepressants can have anticholinergic effects. Blockage of muscarinic receptors can cause impairment in cognition, which includes memory, executive functioning and processing speed. (7)
Other side effects of Cymbalta include nausea, vomiting, headache, drowsiness, fatigue, dry mouth, abdominal pain, weight loss, insomnia, change in libido, dizziness, constipation, tremors, etc.
What are the factors contributing to memory loss while taking Cymbalta?
Factors that can contribute to memory-related issues or cognitive dysfunction while taking Cymbalta may include:
- Individual variability: Each individual responds to the drug differently, and some may be more sensitive to the medications, leading to side effects such as cognitive impairment.
- Underlying conditions: If you have any underlying disease such as dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, etc., you may experience memory loss
- Drug interactions: Certain drugs, such as NSAIDs, other antidepressants, stimulants, etc, can cause cognitive dysfunction and using Cymbalta concomitantly along with these medications can increase the risk of cognitive impairment.
- Withdrawal symptoms: Sudden discontinuation of Cymbalta can cause withdrawal symptoms, and withdrawal symptoms are accompanied by cognitive dysfunction.
- Dose: Taking a higher dose of Cymbalta can amplify its effects, which may result in increased side effects.
What to do if you experience Cymbalta-induced memory loss?
Cognitive dysfunction caused by Cymbalta at the beginning of the treatment usually subsides as your body gets used to the medication. However, if you are experiencing side effects for a longer period of time, make sure you consult your physician for proper management.
Get yourself evaluated for any underlying disease which can contribute to memory loss. Avoid taking OTC drugs without consulting your physician. If an increased dose of Cymbalta is causing cognitive impairment, your physician may reduce your dose or switch to another antidepressant.
Remember that switching drugs and reducing the dose of the drug should be done under a physician’s guidance to avoid withdrawal symptoms.
Consider other therapies, such as cognitive behavioural therapy and psychotherapy, to help you address your mental illnesses and mitigate their symptoms. Participate in activities such as puzzle-solving games, chess, etc, which will help improve your memory.
In my perspective, Cymbalta can cause cognitive impairment, which involves loss of memory. Elderly patients are at a higher risk of memory loss due to long-term use of Cymbalta. This can be managed with therapies such as cognitive behavioural therapy and psychotherapy.
Consult your physician if you experience any unwanted side effects. Do not discontinue taking Cymbalta suddenly because of the side effects, as it can lead to withdrawal symptoms and worsen your condition.
Was this helpful?
References
1.-
Dhaliwal JS, Spurling BC, Molla M. Duloxetine. [Updated 2023 May 29]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549806/
2.-
Stoner SC. Drug-induced cognitive dysfunction. Medical Update for Psychiatrists. 1997 May 1;2(3):81-5. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1082757997000046
3.-
Tendolkar I, Van Wingen G, Urner M, Jan Verkes R, Fernández G. Short-term duloxetine administration affects neural correlates of mood-congruent memory. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2011 Oct;36(11):2266-75. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3176563/
4.-
Sayyah M, Eslami K, AlaiShehni S, Kouti L. Cognitive function before and during treatment with selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors in patients with depression or obsessive-compulsive disorder. Psychiatry journal. 2016 Oct;2016. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5002481/
5.-
Lam RW, Kennedy SH, McIntyre RS, Khullar A. Cognitive dysfunction in major depressive disorder: effects on psychosocial functioning and implications for treatment. The Canadian Journal of Psychiatry. 2014 Dec;59(12):649-54. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4304584/
6.-
Raskin, J., Wiltse, C.G., Siegal, A., Sheikh, J., Xu, J., Dinkel, J.J., Rotz, B.T. and Mohs, R.C., 2007. Efficacy of duloxetine on cognition, depression, and pain in elderly patients with major depressive disorder: an 8-week, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. American Journal of Psychiatry, 164(6), pp.900-909. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17541049/
7.-
Saczynski JS, Rosen AB, McCammon RJ, Zivin K, Andrade SE, Langa KM, Vijan S, Pirraglia PA, Briesacher BA. Antidepressant use and cognitive decline: the health and retirement study. The American journal of medicine. 2015 Jul 1;128(7):739-46. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4618694/#:~:text=Medications%20with%20anticholinergic%20effects%2C%20including,executive%20function%2C%20and%20processing%20speed.
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