Does Cymbalta work for CRPS? (+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 explore the efficacy of Cymbalta in managing complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS) symptoms. We will also discuss the clinical research studies supporting the use of Cymbalta for CRPS patients. Additionally, we will discuss the alternatives to Cymbalta for managing CRPS symptoms.
Does Cymbalta work for CRPS?
Yes, Cymbalta works for complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS), aiming to alleviate its symptoms. CRPS is a complex condition marked by frequently intense pain, typically impacting a single limb. Cymbalta helps in chronic pain management associated with various conditions including CRPS.
Cymbalta is an antidepressant medication that belongs to the class of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. It is commonly known as Duloxetine which is frequently prescribed in clinical settings for the treatment of depression, anxiety, and fibromyalgia (1).
How does Cymbalta work for CRPS?
Cymbalta works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters are associated with the modulation of pain and mood. Patients with CRPS often complain of low mood and severe pain in their limbs. The elevated levels of serotonin are responsible for the elevation of low mood and regulation of pain perception in these patients (2).
The medication’s dual mechanism of action makes it a valuable option in addressing the multifaceted nature of chronic pain in CRPS, providing relief and contributing to enhanced patient outcomes.
What are the symptoms of CRPS?
CRPS is associated with various signs and symptoms that may negatively impact the quality of life of patients suffering from this chronic syndrome. Some of the commonly reported symptoms may include (3):
- intense pain
- swelling
- changes in skin temperature
- hyperalgesia
- sleep disturbances
- edema
- motor dysfunction
- joint stiffness
- tiredness
- alterations in skin color and texture
- allodynia
- muscle weakness
- increased risk of fractures
It’s important to note that the symptoms of CRPS can vary from one person to another, and the severity of symptoms may change over time.
What does research suggest?
According to research, Cymbalta is effectively used in the management of chronic pain associated with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome due to its interference with serotonin and norepinephrine. By increasing the neurotransmitter levels in the brain, Cymbalta helps alleviate pain and improve the overall quality of life for individuals living with CRPS (2).
In a research study, the effectiveness of Cymbalta in managing chronic pain associated with various medical conditions was investigated through the analysis of more than 10 studies over a 12-week duration. The results consistently demonstrated notable improvements in pain relief, underscoring the medication’s efficacy in addressing chronic pain (3).
What to do if Cymbalta fails to manage CRPS?
Managing chronic pain associated with CRPS with Cymbalta usually takes a few weeks to months. During the initial period of treatment, it is important to remain patient. However, if you feel that Cymbalta is not improving your symptoms even after weeks of treatment, you should report it to your healthcare provider.
Your healthcare provider will analyze your condition and determine the actual cause of treatment failure. They may increase the dosage of Cymbalta if the lower dose is not effective or add another medication to your therapy.
If Cymbalta is negatively impacting your condition or causing side effects that are making your condition worse, your healthcare provider may recommend that you discontinue Cymbalta and provide you with an alternative medication.
It is important to note that the discontinuation of Cymbalta should only be done gradually under the guidance and supervision of your healthcare provider. Sudden withdrawal of antidepressant medications, including Cymbalta, may lead to discontinuation syndrome.
What are alternatives to Cymbalta for managing CRPS?
There are several alternative medications to Cymbalta that can effectively manage the symptoms associated with complex regional pain syndrome. These medications may include the following (4):
- Bisphosphonates (alendronate)
- tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline)
- anticonvulsants (gabapentin, pregabalin)
- analgesics (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
- opioids (morphine)
Additionally, non-pharmacological interventions can be combined with medications to provide additional support in managing the symptoms. These interventions may include, targeted exercises to improve mobility, counseling, and cognitive-behavioral therapy to address the psychological aspects of CRPS.
In my opinion, CRPS is a complex medical condition that is managed by using a combination of medications. Cymbalta alone is not effective in managing the overall symptoms of CRPS. However, in clinical settings, Cymbalta is prescribed to treat the chronic pain associated with this syndrome.
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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.-
Skljarevski V, Zhang S, Iyengar S, D’Souza D, Alaka K, Chappell A, Wernicke J. Efficacy of Duloxetine in Patients with Chronic Pain Conditions. Curr Drug ther. 2011 Nov;6(4):296-303. doi: 10.2174/157488511798109592. PMID: 22876216; PMCID: PMC3412202. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22876216/
3.-
Gudmundsson KG. [Complex regional pain syndrome, CRPS]. Laeknabladid. 2021 Jun;107(6):288-296. Icelandic. doi: 10.17992/lbl.2021.06.640. PMID: 34057076. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34057076/
4.-
Taylor SS, Noor N, Urits I, Paladini A, Sadhu MS, Gibb C, Carlson T, Myrcik D, Varrassi G, Viswanath O. Complex Regional Pain Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review. Pain Ther. 2021 Dec;10(2):875-892. doi: 10.1007/s40122-021-00279-4. Epub 2021 Jun 24. Erratum in: Pain Ther. 2021 Jul 26;: PMID: 34165690; PMCID: PMC8586273. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34165690/
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