Does Cymbalta contain ibuprofen? (+3 differences)
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 composition of Cymbalta formulation and explore whether it contains ibuprofen. We will also discuss the key differences between Cymbalta and ibuprofen including their mechanism of action, therapeutic uses, and side effects.
Does Cymbalta contain ibuprofen?
No, Cymbalta does not contain ibuprofen. Cymbalta is a brand name for duloxetine, an antidepressant medication that is prescribed in the management of various mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety (1).
On the other hand, ibuprofen is an analgesic medication that is marketed under various brand names such as Advil and Brufen. It can be used as an over-the-counter pain reliever medication. While both Cymbalta and ibuprofen may be used to manage pain, they work through different mechanisms and are intended for different purposes.
What does the formulation of Cymbalta contain?
The formulation of Cymbalta includes both active and inactive ingredients, collectively composing the final dosage of the medication.
| Active ingredient | duloxetine hydrochloride |
| Inactive ingredients (excipients) | binders, fillers, diluents, disintegrants, lubricants, colorants, bulk-forming agents |
What is the difference between Cymbalta and ibuprofen?
Cymbalta and ibuprofen are completely different medications with distinct active ingredients and purposes. The most common differences between these two medications may include:
- mechanism of action
- therapeutic benefits
- side effects
Mechanism of action
The mechanism of Cymbalta responsible for its various therapeutic benefits may involve its interference with certain neurotransmitters in the brain. These neurotransmitters may include serotonin and norepinephrine, which are responsible for the regulation of mood and behavior in individuals. Cymbalta blocks the reuptake of these neurotransmitters which in turn increases their level in the brain (1).
On the other hand, the mechanism by which ibuprofen works may involve its inhibitory action on the enzymes namely, cyclooxygenase 1 and cyclooxygenase 2 (3).
Therapeutic uses
Cymbalta is an antidepressant medication, most commonly employed in the management of depression. However, it may have other therapeutic benefits as well, such as (1):
- anxiety disorders
- panic disorders
- obsessive-compulsive disorder
- fibromyalgia
- joint pain
- muscle pain
- pain associated with arthritis
- chronic back pain
On the other hand, the indications of ibuprofen may include (3):
- headaches
- fever
- joint pain
- arthritis
- toothache
- menstrual pain
- muscle aches
Side effects
The most common side effects associated with the use of Cymbalta and ibuprofen may include (1):
| Cymbalta | Ibuprofen |
| weight changes | ulcers |
| vomiting | vomiting |
| drowsiness | gastrointestinal discomfort |
| aggression | fluid retention |
| lightheadedness | dizziness |
| sleep disturbances | edema |
| agitation | rash |
| confusion | gastrointestinal bleeding |
| tiredness | heartburn |
It’s important to seek medical attention if you experience severe side effects associated with Cymbalta or ibuprofen to ensure the safety of the treatment.
Can you take Cymbalta and ibuprofen together?
Yes, you can take ibuprofen and Cymbalta together. There is no known interaction between these medications that may hinder their combined usage. However, it is crucial to use these medications only as directed by a healthcare professional and to be aware of their specific indications, and any contraindications based on your individual health conditions.
What are the side effects of taking Cymbalta and Ibuprofen together?
Combining Cymbalta and ibuprofen typically does not result in side effects for most individuals; however, some may experience additive side effects such as vomiting, nausea, dizziness, and stomach upset.
There is a potential for an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers when taken together, as both medications can affect the stomach lining.
Individuals with underlying liver diseases should use this combination cautiously, as both of these medications are metabolized by liver and ibuprofen specifically has some effects on the liver enzymes.
If you have doubts about these medications or their suitability for your needs, consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
To my knowledge, the formulation of Cymbalta does not contain ibuprofen. However, in clinical practice, healthcare professionals may prescribe a combination of Cymbalta and ibuprofen for individuals with underlying mental health disorders and other conditions such as fever, inflammation, toothache, or body aches.
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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.-
Ngo VTH, Bajaj T. Ibuprofen. 2023 May 29. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 31194439. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31194439/
3.-
Upadhyay A, Amanullah A, Joshi V, Dhiman R, Prajapati VK, Poluri KM, Mishra A. Ibuprofen-based advanced therapeutics: breaking the inflammatory link in cancer, neurodegeneration, and diseases. Drug Metab Rev. 2021 Feb;53(1):100-121. doi: 10.1080/03602532.2021.1903488. Epub 2021 Apr 5. PMID: 33820460. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33820460/
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