Does Cymbalta help nightmares? (+5 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 reduction of nightmares. We will also explore research studies suggesting a link between Cymbalta and the reduction of nightmares in individuals with mental disorders. Additionally, we will discuss alternatives to Cymbalta if it fails to manage nightmares in individuals.
Does Cymbalta help nightmares?
Yes, Cymbalta may help with nightmares. However, it is not primarily prescribed for the reduction of nightmares in individuals. It deals with the nightmares and vivid dreams associated with certain mental health conditions such as post-traumatic stress disorder.
Cymbalta is essentially an antidepressant medication used in the management of symptoms of various health conditions such as depression, anxiety, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain (1).
Along with its therapeutic effects, it might cause some side effects in some individuals, such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, headaches, and weight changes. Some studies have also reported the occurrence of nightmares in individuals taking Cymbalta (1).
What does research suggest?
According to research, Cymbalta can help in the management of nightmares associated with various mental health disorders.
In a research study, Cymbalta was prescribed for the management of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in patients at a dosage of 120 mg daily. The treatment was continued for a period of 2 to 3 months, and the effectiveness of Cymbalta in the management of nightmares associated with PTSD was reported (2).
In another study, Cymbalta was prescribed to a patient with PTSD along with antipsychotic medications. The results showed improvements in the symptoms of PTSD along with improvements in sleep and the reduction of nightmares and vivid dreams (3).
What to do if Cymbalta fails to manage nightmares?
The improvement of symptoms with Cymbalta may take a few days. You should remain patient during the initial phase of treatment. However, if Cymbalta does not improve your symptoms or fails to manage nightmares even after weeks of treatment, you should consult your healthcare provider. They will examine your symptoms and determine the actual cause of treatment failure.
In some cases, a lower dosage of Cymbalta is prescribed in the initial period when the risk of side effects is higher and the body is adjusting to the medication. After some time, the dosage is increased gradually to optimal levels to show therapeutic effects.
However, if even the higher dosage of Cymbalta is ineffective in managing your symptoms, your healthcare provider may recommend alternative treatment options for your condition.
They may suggest discontinuation of Cymbalta and transitioning to an alternative medication. However, do not switch to another medication without consulting your doctor, as it may worsen your condition.
What are the alternatives to Cymbalta for managing nightmares?
If Cymbalta fails to manage your mental condition and the associated nightmares, your healthcare provider may recommend an alternative medication that is suitable for your underlying mental disorder and the nightmares. These medications may include the following (4):
- trazodone
- clonidine
- prazosin
- fluvoxamine
- gabapentin.
However, it is important to note that the selection of an appropriate medication should be based on your overall health condition, the therapeutic effects of the medication, as well as the side effects associated with these medications.
You should always inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you’re taking, as well as your symptoms, so they can choose an appropriate medication specific to your individual needs.
What are the non-pharmacological approaches for managing nightmares?
Nightmares can be a distressing experience, and non-pharmacological approaches can be effective in managing them. Some of the management tips for nightmares may include:
- Psychological counseling may also offer a supportive and therapeutic environment aimed at reducing the frequency and intensity of nightmares.
- Behavioral therapies are a popular option that can help with sleep disturbances and nightmares caused by post-traumatic stress disorders.
- Relaxation techniques, such as stress-alleviating exercises, can also be helpful in managing nightmares in some individuals.
- It is advisable to avoid caffeine consumption in the hours leading up to bedtime as it can cause sleep disruptions and subsequent nightmares.
- Creating a conducive sleep environment by reducing noise levels and maintaining an optimal temperature can enhance sleep quality and reduce the occurrence of nightmares during rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.
In my opinion, while research has reported cases where Cymbalta is proven effective for managing nightmares in patients with PTSD, its use for managing nightmares without any underlying mental health disorder should be avoided. It may exacerbate symptoms in some individuals.
Always consult your healthcare provider if you experience unbearable nightmares, and refrain from self-medicating.
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References
1.-
Dhaliwal JS, Spurling BC, Molla M. Duloxetine. 2023 May 29. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan–. PMID: 31747213. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31747213/
2.-
Walderhaug E, Kasserman S, Aikins D, Vojvoda D, Nishimura C, Neumeister A. Effects of duloxetine in treatment-refractory men with posttraumatic stress disorder. Pharmacopsychiatry. 2010 Mar;43(2):45-9. doi: 10.1055/s-0029-1237694. Epub 2009 Dec 15. PMID: 20108200. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20108200/
3.-
Holzinger B, Nierwetberg F, Klösch G. Case Report: Why Sleep and Dream Related Psychological Treatments, Such as Sleepcoaching (According to Holzinger&Klösch) and CBT-I Should Be Implemented in Treatment Concepts in the Public Health System-Description of the Nightmare Treatment Process in the Context of PTSD. Front Psychol. 2021 Oct 25;12:733911. doi: 10.3389/fpsyg.2021.733911. PMID: 34764915; PMCID: PMC8576602. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8576602/
4.-
Aurora RN, Zak RS, Auerbach SH, Casey KR, Chowdhuri S, Karippot A, Maganti RK, Ramar K, Kristo DA, Bista SR, Lamm CI, Morgenthaler TI; Standards of Practice Committee; American Academy of Sleep Medicine. Best practice guide for the treatment of nightmare disorder in adults. J Clin Sleep Med. 2010 Aug 15;6(4):389-401. PMID: 20726290; PMCID: PMC2919672. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2919672/
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