What does Cymbalta treat? (+5 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 common indications for Cymbalta. We will also discuss the dosage and duration of treatment with Cymbalta for the management of various health conditions as well as the side effects associated with the use of Cymbalta in individuals with underlying mental disorders.
What does Cymbalta treat?
Cymbalta is used in the treatment of the following medical conditions (1):
- anxiety disorders
- depression
- obsessive-compulsive disorders
- fibromyalgia
- chronic pain
Anxiety disorders
According to research, Cymbalta is an FDA-approved medication, used as a first-line treatment for the management of generalized anxiety disorders. It works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters are responsible for the regulation of mood and alleviation of various symptoms of anxiety such as restlessness, irritability, excessive worrying, and low mood.
Dosage and duration of treatment
Cymbalta is usually prescribed at a dosage of 60 to 120 mg for the management of anxiety and its associated symptoms. However, a low dose of Cymbalta is less likely to cause serious adverse effects in individuals with underlying anxiety disorders. The duration of treatment with Cymbalta for anxiety usually takes a few weeks to months (2).
Obsessive-compulsive disorder
Cymbalta is also indicated for the management of Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and its associated symptoms. OCD is a mental disorder that is characterized by repetitive unwanted thoughts and behaviors. It can significantly interfere with daily activities, and relationships, and affect the overall quality of life.
Dosage and duration of treatment
Cymbalta helps in the management of drug-resistant OCD at a dosage of 120 mg for a duration of 3 months. Symptoms of OCD may start showing improvement within 3 to 4 weeks of treatment initiation. However, it is important to continue medication until complete remission of symptoms (3).
Depression
Cymbalta helps in maintaining higher levels of serotonin in the synaptic cleft, positively impacting mood regulation and reduction of sadness and irritability associated with depression. However, the effectiveness of Cymbalta in depression depends upon various factors including individual response to medication, severity of depression, and overall health status.
Generally, Cymbalta is a well-tolerated medication with a lower incidence of serious adverse effects in depressive patients.
Dosage and duration of treatment
Cymbalta exhibits varying effectiveness in treating major depressive disorder, often showing improvement after 3 to 4 weeks. Dosages typically start at 20-30 mg daily and can be adjusted up to 60 mg. The duration of treatment varies, lasting from weeks to months, depending on individual response and treatment goals (4).
Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a medical condition that is associated with various symptoms including muscle pain, tiredness, difficulty sleeping, and depressed mood. It may occur concomitantly with other mental disorders including anxiety, stress disorders, and depression.
Cymbalta, which is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor improves these symptoms of fibromyalgia by increasing the concentration of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain.
Dosage and duration of treatment
Cymbalta at a dosage of 60 mg daily may take 10 to 12 weeks for the alleviation of symptoms of fibromyalgia. The dosage of Cymbalta may be increased up to 120 mg based on the severity of symptoms and individual response to the treatment (6).
Chronic pain
Cymbalta is effective in managing chronic pain associated with various medical conditions. It may help with neuropathic pain, joint pain, muscle pain, and lower back pain. Cymbalta works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain, which may have a modulating effect on pain signals.
Dosage and duration of treatment
The timeline for pain improvement with Cymbalta varies among individuals. Studies suggest an initial relief within weeks, but the full therapeutic effect may take months. A trial period of 2 to 4 weeks is common, with treatment tailored based on factors like the underlying cause of chronic pain and overall health (5).
Regular communication with a healthcare provider is essential during the course of treatment to monitor progress, adjust the dosage if needed, and address any concerns or side effects.
What are the side effects of Cymbalta?
The most common side effects associated with the use of Cymbalta in individuals with underlying mental disorders and chronic pain may include (1):
- nausea
- vomiting
- dry mouth
- headaches
- sleep disturbances
- appetite changes
- sexual disturbances
- agitation
- aggression
- dizziness
- drowsiness
- numbness
It is important to note that Cymbalta generally has a well-tolerated safety profile and it does not cause severe adverse effects in most of the individuals who use it. However, the frequency and severity of these adverse effects may depend on the individual response and sensitivity to Cymbalta as well as the overall health status.
What are the alternatives to Cymbalta if it doesn’t work?
If Cymbalta is not effectively managing your symptoms, your healthcare provider may consider alternative medications for managing various medical conditions for which Cymbalta is prescribed. These medications may include:
- Other serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibits (venlafaxine, desvenlafaxine)
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (fluoxetine, citalopram)
- Tricyclic antidepressants (amitriptyline)
- Atypical antidepressants (bupropion)
- Anticonvulsants (pregabalin, gabaentin) for fibromyalgia
- Muscle relaxants (cyclobenzaprine) for fibromyalgia
- Opioids (morphine) for chronic pain
The choice of an alternative medication depends on various factors, including your specific symptoms, medical history, and individual response to medications. It’s important to have a detailed discussion with your healthcare professional to determine the most suitable alternative and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
In my opinion, Cymbalta is an effective medication that is used in clinical settings for the management of various health conditions. While individual responses may vary, I believe that the multifaceted benefits of Cymbalta make it a valuable option in addressing complex conditions that involve both emotional and physical aspects.
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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.-
Hartford J, Kornstein S, Liebowitz M, Pigott T, Russell J, Detke M, Walker D, Ball S, Dunayevich E, Dinkel J, Erickson J. Duloxetine as an SNRI treatment for generalized anxiety disorder: results from a placebo and active-controlled trial. Int Clin Psychopharmacol. 2007 May;22(3):167-74. doi: 10.1097/YIC.0b013e32807fb1b2. PMID: 17414743.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17414743/
3.-
Dougherty DD, Corse AK, Chou T, Duffy A, Arulpragasam AR, Deckersbach T, Jenike MA, Keuthen NJ. Open-label study of duloxetine for the treatment of obsessive-compulsive disorder. Int J Neuropsychopharmacol. 2015 Jan 30;18(2):pyu062. doi: 10.1093/ijnp/pyu062. PMID: 25637377; PMCID: PMC4368895. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25637377
4.-
Burt VK, Wohlreich MM, Mallinckrodt CH, Detke MJ, Watkin JG, Stewart DE. Duloxetine for the treatment of major depressive disorder in women ages 40 to 55 years. Psychosomatics. 2005 Jul-Aug;46(4):345-54. doi: 10.1176/appi.psy.46.4.345. PMID: 16000678. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16000678/
5.-
Moore RA, Cai N, Skljarevski V, Tölle TR. Duloxetine use in chronic painful conditions–individual patient data responder analysis. Eur J Pain. 2014 Jan;18(1):67-75. doi: 10.1002/j.1532-2149.2013.00341.x. Epub 2013 Jun 3. PMID: 23733529; PMCID: PMC4302330. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23733529/
6.-
Acuna C. Duloxetine for the treatment of fibromyalgia. Drugs Today (Barc). 2008 Oct;44(10):725-34. doi: 10.1358/dot.2008.44.10.1269675. PMID: 19137126. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19137126/
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