Does Cymbalta expire? (3+ dangers and precautions)
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 answer the question, “Does Cymbalta expire?” along with the dangers associated with the use of expired drugs. We will also talk about the steps to take if you have consumed an expired Cymbalta.
Does Cymbalta expire?
Yes, like every other drug, Cymbalta also has an expiration date. Cymbalta hard gastro-resistant capsule has a shelf life of 3 years. Cymbalta can be consumed only if it is in good condition and has not undergone any chemical degradation or lost its original shape. (1)
As per the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the expiration date of drugs denotes the duration within which the manufacturer guarantees the drug’s safety and efficacy. Medical authorities believe that drugs can be consumed even after the expiry date. (2)
The effectiveness of some drugs remains the same for years, even after the expiration date. However, it is not possible to know the safety and efficacy of an expired drug, and it is not recommended to take an expired drug. Some drugs undergo chemical degradation if not kept in a proper storage condition, and consuming such drugs will cause serious side effects.
The stability of a drug depends on the dosage form. Drugs in the form of capsules or tablets appear to be more stable when compared to drugs such as nitroglycerin, insulin, liquid antibiotics, syrups, suspensions, suppositories, etc.
What are the dangers associated with expired Cymbalta?
If you take an expired Cymbalta, it will not treat your symptoms. Expired Cymbalta loses its effectiveness as time passes, and when you take an expired drug, it will not give you the therapeutic effect which is needed to treat your symptoms.
In cases where the drug fails to produce any therapeutic benefits or has a limited effect, the symptoms that were previously alleviated may resurface and cause discomfort or distress. Cymbalta is an antidepressant used to treat depression, anxiety, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, etc., and with the low efficacy of the drug, it may not treat the symptoms and worsen your condition. (3)
Cymbalta acts by increasing the neurotransmitters such as serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine, which regulate mood, memory, attention, etc, and consuming an expired drug may bring fluctuations in these neurotransmitters and cause cognitive impairment. (4)
It is not possible to know how effective a drug is after its expiration date. Hence, it is not advisable to take an expired drug. There are no research studies that have shown the safety and efficacy of using an expired drug.
A drug that has undergone chemical degradation may result in the formation of toxic compounds, which can cause serious side effects. Do not take a drug that has lost its original form. (5)
What to do if you have taken expired Cymbalta?
There are no specific instructions to follow if you have taken an expired Cymbalta. However, if you are experiecning any harmful side effects such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, tremors, diarrhoea, headache, dizziness, drowsiness, etc., consult your physician immediately.
As time passes, the drug loses its effectiveness and fails to provide the expected benefits. If you are experiencing any recurrence of your symptoms, consult your healthcare professional as soon as possible.
Do not continue taking an expired drug, as its safety and effectiveness are not known, and it can cause harmful effects such as withdrawal symptoms that can worsen your condition. Replace your expired drug with a new one.
How to store Cymbalta?
Storing Cymbalta properly can increase its shelf life and prevent chemical degradation. Hence, it is important to follow a few storage guidelines, such as (1,2)
- Store Cymbalta at 25 °C – 30 °C not above
- Store it in its original package to protect it from moisture.
- Keep it in a cool and dry place away from moisture
- Keep the medication away from light.
Cymbalta is marketed in a bulb-shaped aluminium sheet and also in a closed container. Do not store Cymbalta in the bathroom cupboard as the place contains more moisture and can lead to chemical degradation of the drug. Ensure that the drug is stored in a safe place where children cannot access it. (2)
How to dispose of expired Cymbalta?
It is important to know how to dispose of an expired or unwanted medicine to avoid public health and environmental damage. You can dispose of unwanted medications in two ways: either flush them down the toilet/sink or dispose of them in the household trash. You can also dispose of the medication in trash cans specially made for drug disposal.
While disposing of Cymbalta in household trash, there are a few steps to follow:
- Take out the drug from the original container and mix it with coffee grounds, dirt or cat litter.
- Put the mixture in a zipper bag or any suitable container that can be sealed, and make sure the content does not spill or leak.
- Scratch out the personal information written on the prescription bottle and then throw it away in the bin.
In my opinion, as a clinical pharmacist, It is important to avoid consuming expired medication as it can be harmful and may worsen your symptoms. I recommend discarding expired medication and replacing it with new medication.
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References
1.-
Cymbalta [package insert]. Indianapolis. Eli Lilly and Company 2004. Available from: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/022516lbl.pdf
2.-
Gikonyo D, Gikonyo A, Luvayo D, Ponoth P. Drug expiry debate: the myth and the reality. African health sciences. 2019 Nov 7;19(3):2737-9. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7040264/
3.-
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/
4.-
Teleanu RI, Niculescu AG, Roza E, Vladâcenco O, Grumezescu AM, Teleanu DM. Neurotransmitters—Key Factors in Neurological and Neurodegenerative Disorders of the Central Nervous System. International Journal of Molecular Sciences. 2022 May 25;23(11):5954. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9180936/
5.-
U.S. Food & Drugs [Internet]. Drugs, Resources for You | Drugs Special Features; 2021. Don’t Be Tempted to Use Expired Medicines; [cited 2023 Mai. 23]. Available from: https://www.fda.gov/drugs/pharmaceutical-quality-resources/expiration-dates-questions-and-answers
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