Does Cymbalta cause side effects? (3+ precautions)

In this article, we will discuss whether Cymbalta causes side effects, what are the common side effects of Cymbalta, what are the less common and rare side effects of Cymbalta, what side effects occur with abrupt discontinuation of Cymbalta, what precautions to take while using Cymbalta, and what you should do if you experience any side effects from Cymbalta use.

Does Cymbalta cause side effects?

Yes, Cymbalta may cause side effects like many other medications. It’s crucial for individuals considering or currently using Cymbalta to be aware of the potential side effects in order to make informed decisions about their treatment.

Cymbalta (duloxetine) is a medication that belongs to the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors and is prescribed for the treatment of major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, and certain types of chronic pain conditions. While it has proven effective for many individuals, exploring the potential side effects associated with its use is essential. (1)

What are the common side effects of Cymbalta?

Cymbalta can cause some common side effects that usually subside when the body adjusts to the medication, and this usually takes a few weeks. These side effects include:

  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhoea
  • Weight changes
  • Heartburn
  • Stomach pain
  • Decreased appetite
  • Dry mouth
  • Increased urination
  • Excessive sweating or night sweats
  • Dizziness
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Vertigo
  • Blurred vision
  • Drowsiness
  • Musculoskeletal pain
  • Sexual problems in males: decreased libido, inability to get or keep an erection, or delayed or absent ejaculation
  • Sexual problems in females: decreased libido, delayed climax, or inability to have a climax
  • Chills (1,2,3)

What are the infrequent and rare side effects of Cymbalta?

Some side effects can be less common. If you experience any of the following side effects immediately, report them to your doctor or go to the emergency room:

  • Myocardial infarction or tachycardia
  • Stomach pain (in the upper right part)
  • Tinnitus
  • Abdomen swelling 
  • Itching
  • Yellowing of the skin or eyes
  • Dark colored urine
  • Appetite loss
  • Extreme fatigue or weakness
  • Insomnia
  • Confusion
  • Dyskinesia
  • Tremors
  • Seizures
  • Hallucinations 
  • Fever
  • Blisters or peeling skin
  • Rash
  • Hives
  • Difficulty breathing or swallowing
  • Swelling of any part of the body
  • Suicide attempt
  • Difficulty urinating
  • Hyponatremia (1,2,3)

Rare side effects of Cymbalta include:

  • Gastric ulcer
  • Suicide
  • Walking problems
  • Dyslipidemia
  • Difficulty speaking
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Fainting (1,2,3)

What side effects occur with the abrupt discontinuation of Cymbalta?

Abruptly stopping Cymbalta can lead to a set of withdrawal symptoms known as discontinuation syndrome. Symptoms may include:

  • Dizziness
  • Headaches
  • Irritability
  • Electric shock-like sensations
  • Nausea
  • Insomnia (4)

To minimize the side effects, it’s essential to work closely with a healthcare professional when adjusting or discontinuing Cymbalta.

What precautions to take while using Cymbalta?

These precautions must be considered while using Cymbalta:

Medical History Disclosure: Inform your healthcare provider of any pre-existing medical conditions, especially liver disease or a history of seizures.

Medication Interactions: Cymbalta should not be taken with concomitant monoamine oxidase inhibitors due to potential interactions. Cymbalta can also interact with other medications, such as:

  • NSAIDs or aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding.
  • Warfarin can change the anti-coagulant effect when used along with Cymbalta.

Informing your healthcare provider about all medications and herbal supplements that you are taking is crucial.

Pregnancy and lactation: Consult with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant, planning to conceive, or breastfeeding, as the safety of Cymbalta in these situations is not well-established.

What should you do if you experience side effects from Cymbalta?

If you experience any adverse effects while taking Cymbalta, it’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider. They can assess the severity of the symptoms and take appropriate measures to help you.

Your doctor might consider adjusting the dosage, a change in medication, or additional support according to the severity of your symptoms.

 

According to my knowledge, Cymbalta can be a valuable tool in managing certain mental health conditions and chronic pain. If you are considering or using Cymbalta for any mental health issue, it’s essential to be aware of potential side effects.

An individual’s response to medications depends on various personal factors. What one person experiences while using Cymbalta might not be the experience of another. Consult your healthcare provider if you experience any unwanted symptoms.

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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.-

Cymbalta, a prescribing guide by The U.S. Food and Drug Administration, https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/022516lbl.pdf

3.-

AHFS Patient Medication Information [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): American Society of Health-System Pharmacists, Inc.; c2019. duloxetine; [updated 2022 Mar 15; reviewed 2018 Jul 5; cited 2020 Jul 1]; [about 5 p.]. Available from:  https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a604030.html

4.-

Long-Term Duloxetine Withdrawal Syndrome and Management in a Depressed Patient, Yi-Cheng Hou, MSc, and Chien-Han Lai, M.D. Published Online:1 Jan 2014 https://doi.org/10.1176/appi.neuropsych.12110265

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