Does Cymbalta help with binge eating? (+3 approaches)
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 binge eating. We will also discuss the alternative treatment options for binge eating if Cymbalta fails to manage it.
Does Cymbalta help with binge eating?
Yes, Cymbalta does help with binge eating. Cymbalta is effective in reducing binge eating episodes in individuals with co-occurring mental disorders such as depression or anxiety. Binge eating treatment often involves a combination of pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions, tailored to the individual’s needs.
Cymbalta, also known as Duloxetine, is an antidepressant medication that works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. This helps to alleviate various symptoms associated with depression, anxiety, and fibromyalgia. However, Cymbalta may also be used off-label to manage conditions such as binge eating and obsessive-compulsive disorder (1).
How does Cymbalta treat binge eating?
Cymbalta is a medication that can help reduce episodes of binge eating by increasing serotonin levels, which are involved in regulating appetite. When serotonin levels are increased, individuals may feel fuller or more satisfied after eating, which can reduce the urge to engage in binge eating. Cymbalta can also be effective in reducing weight for the same reason.
What does research suggest?
According to research, Cymbalta is highly effective in reducing the frequency of binge eating episodes in individuals with depression and binge eating disorder. In a study involving around 40 patients, Cymbalta demonstrated notable efficacy over a three-month period in reducing the episodes of binge eating (2).
Additionally, in another study, it was found that Cymbalta not only reduced the frequency of eating but also helped to reduce weight in individuals with eating disorders and obesity. These studies show that Cymbalta is a valuable treatment option for those struggling with these conditions (3).
What to do if Cymbalta doesn’t effectively manage binge eating?
If you are currently taking Cymbalta to manage your binge eating disorder but feel that the medication is not working or potentially making your condition worse, it is important to talk to your healthcare provider.
Consulting with your doctor can help determine the root cause of your treatment failure and lead to an adjustment in dosage or a switch to an alternative medication if necessary. However, it is crucial that you never make the decision to switch medications on your own without consulting with your healthcare provider first.
Keep in mind that it may take a few weeks for medications like Cymbalta to show therapeutic effects, so it is important to not change or stop taking your medication abruptly. Doing so may lead to withdrawal effects.
What are the alternatives to Cymbalta for treating binge eating?
Several off-label drugs can be used to reduce the frequency of binge eating. However, these medications are typically prescribed when there is a clear need, such as the presence of comorbid conditions like depression or when other interventions have not been successful. Some examples of these medications may include (4):
- Lisdexamfetamine
- Exenatide
- Bupropion
- Fluoxetine
- Setmelanotide
- Topiramate
These medications can be prescribed by your healthcare provider in combination to effectively manage the binge eating disorder. Additionally, some non-pharmacological interventions can be added to the therapy to provide long-term success.
What are the non-pharmacological approaches to treating binge eating?
Binge eating disorders can be managed effectively with non-pharmacological approaches. Psychotherapy is one such approach that has been proven to be highly effective. Among the psychotherapies, cognitive-behavioral therapy is considered the most effective as it focuses on identifying and changing thought patterns and behaviors related to binge eating.
In addition to psychotherapy, there are various other relaxing interventions that can be helpful in reducing binge eating episodes. Practices such as meditation and yoga can help individuals become more aware of their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors around food. These interventions can help them manage their emotions and reduce the frequency of binges.
Lifestyle changes are also an important factor in managing binge eating. Implementing healthy lifestyle habits such as regular physical activity and stress-reducing practices can contribute to overall well-being and help in managing binge eating. These changes can also help individuals maintain a healthy weight, which is essential for managing eating disorders.
In my opinion, it is important to seek professional guidance for an accurate diagnosis and to determine the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual circumstances. With the right treatment and support, individuals with eating disorders can manage their symptoms and improve their overall quality of life.
Was this helpful?
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.-
Guerdjikova AI, McElroy SL, Winstanley EL, Nelson EB, Mori N, McCoy J, Keck PE Jr, Hudson JI. Duloxetine in the treatment of binge eating disorder with depressive disorders: a placebo-controlled trial. Int J Eat Disord. 2012 Mar;45(2):281-9. doi: 10.1002/eat.20946. Epub 2011 Jul 8. PMID: 21744377. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21744377/
3.-
Bernardi S, Pallanti S. Successful duloxetine treatment of a binge eating disorder: a case report. J Psychopharmacol. 2010 Aug;24(8):1269-72. doi: 10.1177/0269881108098822. Epub 2008 Nov 14. PMID: 19010975. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19010975/
4.-
McElroy SL. Pharmacologic Treatments for Binge-Eating Disorder. J Clin Psychiatry. 2017;78 Suppl 1:14-19. doi: 10.4088/JCP.sh16003su1c.03. PMID: 28125174. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28125174/
Find a supportive therapist who can help with Depression.
Discover the convenience of BetterHelp, an online therapy platform connecting you with licensed and accredited therapists specialized in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, relationships, and more. Complete the assessment and find your ideal therapist within just 48 hours.
AskYourPharm is user-supported. We may earn a commission if you sign up for BetterHelp’s services after clicking through from this site
