Does Cymbalta help back pain? (+7 alternatives)
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 role of Cymbalta in the management of back pain. We will also discuss the research studies suggesting a potential link between the use of Cymbalta and the reduction of back pain. Additionally, we will discuss the alternatives to Cymbalta for treating back pain, if Cymbalta proves to be ineffective.
Does Cymbalta help back pain?
Yes, Cymbalta does help with back pain. It is frequently prescribed in the management of chronic back pain and other conditions such as joint pain and muscle pain.
Cymbalta is an antidepressant medication that belongs to the class of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. It is indicated for the treatment of various health conditions such as depression, anxiety, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain. While it is considered a well-tolerated medication, it may cause some side effects in susceptible individuals (1).
The side effects associated with the use of Cymbalta may include, fatigue, vomiting, drowsiness, and appetite changes (1).
What is the dosage of Cymbalta for back pain?
The dosage for managing back pain with Cymbalta typically ranges from 60 to 120mg. The specific dosage may vary based on individual factors and the severity of pain. However, a lower incidence of side effects is associated with lower doses compared to higher ones.
Additionally, the duration of treatment varies from one individual to another, but research suggests that symptoms may start improving after 2 weeks of treatment. The treatment can be continued for a few months to a year, depending on the improvement of symptoms (2).
What does research suggest?
According to research findings, Cymbalta has been identified as an effective option for managing lower back pain. In a research study specifically targeting chronic back pain, a daily dosage of 60 mg of Cymbalta was administered.
The results demonstrated the effectiveness of this medication in alleviating symptoms associated with chronic back pain. However, it’s noteworthy that the incidence of side effects was reported to be higher when the dosage was increased to 120 mg in the subsequent study (3).
In another research study, the utilization of Cymbalta at a dosage of 60 mg for the management of chronic back pain was sustained over a period of 3 months. The findings revealed a noteworthy outcome, with more than 49% of participants experiencing a significant reduction in pain (4).
What to do if Cymbalta fails to manage back pain?
If you suspect that your symptoms are not improving or if Cymbalta fails to effectively manage your back pain, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess your condition and determine the reasons for treatment failure.
If the lower dosage of Cymbalta proves ineffective in managing your pain, your healthcare provider may gradually increase the dosage to find an optimum level suitable for your needs.
However, it’s important to note that higher dosages of Cymbalta are more likely to cause side effects in some individuals. Therefore, the decision to increase the dosage should be based on an overall assessment of an individual’s health.
Moreover, in the presence of certain underlying risk factors such as hypersensitivity to Cymbalta or liver diseases, your healthcare provider may recommend an alternative medication to manage your back pain.
Always discuss your symptoms with your healthcare provider to ensure the most appropriate and effective course of treatment.
What are the alternatives to Cymbalta for back pain?
If Cymbalta proves ineffective in managing your back pain, your healthcare provider may offer alternative medications based on the severity of your symptoms. Potential alternatives to Cymbalta for alleviating back pain include:
- amitriptyline
- gabapentin
- milnacipran
- corticosteroids
- cyclobenzaprine
- oxycodone
- naproxen
However, it’s crucial to recognize that each of these medications may have specific side effects that can vary among individuals. The selection of an appropriate medication should be made under the guidance and supervision of your healthcare provider. They will consider your individual health profile, the nature of your back pain, and the side effects of each medication.
In my opinion, Cymbalta is considered a good choice for managing back pain in clinical settings. It’s important to acknowledge the individualized nature of medical treatment, as the selection of a medication should be based on individual conditions. This personalized approach ensures the safety and efficacy of the treatment plan according to your unique needs.
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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.-
Schukro RP, Oehmke MJ, Geroldinger A, Heinze G, Kress HG, Pramhas S. Efficacy of Duloxetine in Chronic Low Back Pain with a Neuropathic Component: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Crossover Trial. Anesthesiology. 2016 Jan;124(1):150-8. doi: 10.1097/ALN.0000000000000902. PMID: 26517858. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26517858/
3.-
Hirase T, Hirase J, Ling J, Kuo PH, Hernandez GA, Giwa K, Marco R. Duloxetine for the Treatment of Chronic Low Back Pain: A Systematic Review of Randomized Placebo-Controlled Trials. Cureus. 2021 May 22;13(5):e15169. doi: 10.7759/cureus.15169. PMID: 34046287; PMCID: PMC8140818. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34046287/
4.-
Alev L, Fujikoshi S, Yoshikawa A, Enomoto H, Ishida M, Tsuji T, Ogawa K, Konno S. Duloxetine 60 mg for chronic low back pain: post hoc responder analysis of double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. J Pain Res. 2017 Jul 24;10:1723-1731. doi: 10.2147/JPR.S138297. PMID: 28769588; PMCID: PMC5533563. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28769588/
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