Does Cymbalta help with anxiety? (+3 indications)
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 use of Cymbalta for managing anxiety disorders. We will also explore the mechanism and dosage of Cymbalta for anxiety and the research studies linking the use of Cymbalta in anxiety disorders. Additionally, we will discuss alternative treatments for anxiety.
Does Cymbalta help with anxiety?
Yes, Cymbalta does help with anxiety. It is an FDA-approved medication for the management of anxiety disorders and their associated symptoms. The anxiety disorders that can be effectively managed by using Cambalta may include the following:
- generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
- panic disorder
- social anxiety disorder
Cymbalta is considered the first-line treatment for GAD. It belongs to the class of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor antidepressant medication. The mechanism of Cymbalta in managing anxiety may involve its interference with the serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain (1).
The elevated levels of these neurotransmitters are responsible for the regulation of mood and the management of various symptoms of anxiety disorders such as irritability, low mood, constant fear, lack of sleep, social phobia, and muscle tension (1).
What is the dosage of Cymbalta for anxiety?
Cymbalta is typically administered at a dosage ranging from 60 to 120 mg. Notably, lower doses of Cymbalta are often preferred to mitigate the risk of serious adverse effects, particularly in individuals with underlying anxiety disorders (2).
The therapeutic course with Cymbalta for anxiety spans a timeframe of a few weeks to months, allowing for the gradual alleviation of symptoms and the establishment of a sustained therapeutic effect.
What does research suggest?
According to research, Cymbalta is a highly preferred medication used for the management of anxiety disorders (2).
In a research study, Cymbalta was used for the management of generalized anxiety disorder at a daily dose of 60mg. The results showed significant improvement in the symptoms of anxiety in 6 to 7 weeks of treatment. The study continued for a duration of 5 months. Notably, the side effects of Cymbalta were well tolerated, with commonly reported adverse effects including nausea, vomiting, headache, and insomnia (3).
In another study, Cymbalta was utilized effectively in the management of anxiety, particularly in cases where patients had pre-existing depression. The results showed that Cymbalta demonstrated efficacy in addressing both anxiety and depression, highlighting its potential as a treatment option for individuals experiencing coexisting mental health disorders (4).
What to do if Cymbalta fails to manage anxiety?
If you are using Cymbalta for anxiety and its symptoms are not improving, here are the steps you should take:
- Wait for a few weeks after starting the medication, as it may take up to 10 to 12 weeks for the symptoms of anxiety and depression to improve with these medications.
- If your symptoms do not start improving even after 3 to 4 weeks of treatment, consult your healthcare provider. They will assess your condition and determine the cause of treatment failure.
- Cymbalta is usually started at a lower dose to minimize the risk of side effects. Your healthcare provider may increase the dosage if necessary to manage your symptoms, which were resistant to a lower dose.
- If even the higher dosage of Cymbalta is not effective in managing your underlying anxiety, your healthcare provider may recommend an alternative anxiolytic medication. However, the decision to discontinue Cymbalta should be made under the guidance of a healthcare provider to avoid withdrawal effects.
What are the alternatives to Cymbalta for managing anxiety?
Alternatives to Cymbalta that can be effectively used in the management of anxiety disorders may include (5):
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (citalopram, fluoxetine)
- Other serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (venlafaxine)
- benzodiazepines (diazepam, lorazepam)
- barbiturates (phenobarbital)
Based on my knowledge and experience, I believe that Cymbalta is an ideal drug for the long-term management of anxiety disorders. However, if it fails to control anxiety symptoms for any reason, there are alternative anxiolytic medications that can be considered.
It is important to note that the selection of anxiolytic medication is highly individualized, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another. Therefore, the decision to switch or adjust medications should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional, taking into account factors such as individual response, side effects, and the specific nature of the anxiety being treated.
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References
1.-
De Berardis D, Serroni N, Carano A, Scali M, Valchera A, Campanella D, D’Albenzio A, Di Giuseppe B, Moschetta FS, Salerno RM, Ferro FM. The role of duloxetine in the treatment of anxiety disorders. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2008 Oct;4(5):929-35. doi: 10.2147/ndt.s2546. PMID: 19183783; PMCID: PMC2626928. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2626928/
2.-
Koponen H, Allgulander C, Erickson J, Dunayevich E, Pritchett Y, Detke MJ, Ball SG, Russell JM. Efficacy of duloxetine for the treatment of generalized anxiety disorder: implications for primary care physicians. Prim Care Companion J Clin Psychiatry. 2007;9(2):100-7. doi: 10.4088/pcc.v09n0203. PMID: 17607331; PMCID: PMC1896302. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17607331/
3.-
Wu WY, Wang G, Ball SG, Desaiah D, Ang QQ. Duloxetine versus placebo in the treatment of patients with generalized anxiety disorder in China. Chin Med J (Engl). 2011 Oct;124(20):3260-8. PMID: 22088518. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22088518/
4.-
Mancini M, Perna G, Rossi A, Petralia A. Use of duloxetine in patients with an anxiety disorder, or with comorbid anxiety and major depressive disorder: a review of the literature. Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2010 May;11(7):1167-81. doi: 10.1517/14656561003747441. Erratum in: Expert Opin Pharmacother. 2010 Jun;11(8):1443. PMID: 20402555. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20402555/
5.-
Bianchi GN. The rational use of anxiolytics. N Z Med J. 1976 May 12;83(563):303-8. PMID: 8750. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8750/
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