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Cymbalta (duloxotine hydrochloride)
Reviews
44
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Recommended By Average Purchase
59% of reviewers $14.04
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Customer Service Pricing Overall Rating
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4.62
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6.33
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5.46
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Description:


Cymbaltaź

Generic Name: Duloxetine hydrochloride

Drug Class: Antidepressant, SSNRI

Contents

Description
This medicine is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SSNRI). This medicine is used to treat depression. This medicine is also used for nerve pain (peripheral neuropathy) in diabetic patients. Your doctor may prescribe this medicine to treat other conditions.
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General Information
This information is for educational purposes only. Not every known side effect, adverse effect, or drug interaction is in this database. If you have questions about your medicines, talk to your healthcare provider.

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Proper use of this medicine
Follow the directions printed on your prescription label. Ask you doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about how to take this medicine. This medicine should be taken by mouth. This medicine should be swallowed whole and should not be chewed or crushed, nor should the contents be sprinkled on food or mixed with liquids. All of these might affect the enteric coating. Do not quickly stop this medicine without talking to your doctor.
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Missed Dose
Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not double doses.
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Storage
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture. Throw away any medication that is outdated or no longer needed.
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Possible Side Effects
    • Talk to your doctor if these side effects are bothersome or do not go away:
      • nausea
      • drowsiness
      • dizziness
      • nervousness
      • insomnia
      • headache
      • increased sweating
      • lightheadedness
      • sexual problems
    • A few of the most common side effects with this medicine include:
    • nausea
    • dry mouth
    • constipation
    • fatigue
    • somnolence
    • increased sweating
    • If you experience other bothersome side effects, contact your health care provider.
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Warnings/Precautions
    • Patients and their families should be alert to personality changes such as increased agitation or talk of suicide.
    • Do NOT stop taking this medicine without first talking to your doctor.
    • Alcoholic beverages can increase the effects of this medicine and should be avoided.
    • This medicine may cause drowsiness or dizziness.
    • Before taking this medicine, notify your doctor if you have:
      • history of alcohol abuse
      • narrow-angled glaucoma
      • kidney problems
    • Patient should watch for worsening depression or suicidal tendencies. If you are feeling more agitated, talk to your health care professional.
    • This medicine can cause dizziness or drowsiness.
    • Be cautious when driving or performing other hazardous activities.
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Overdose
Seek medical attention immediately. For non emergencies, contact your local or regional poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.
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Drug Interactions
    • Patients should be advised to inform their physicians if they are taking, or plan to take, any prescription or over-the-counter medications, since there is a potential for interactions.
    • If you are taking a group of medicine called "MAO inhibitors", they cannont be taken with this medicine. Stop the MAO inhibitor 14 days prior to starting this medicine. Your doctor or pharmacist can assist you with this.
    • Before taking any new medications, either prescription or over-the-counter (OTC), talk to your doctor or pharmacist about mixing medicines.
    • Avoid taking St. John's Wort with this medicine.

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Pregnancy/Nursing
Patients should be advised to notify their physician if they become pregnant or intend to become pregnant during therapy. Neonates exposed to SSRIs or SNRIs late in the third trimester have developed complications requiring prolonged hospitalization. (1) Nursing is not recommended while taking this medicine.
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More Information

For more information about this medicine, talk to your healthcare provider.
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Copyright © 2006 PharmClips, Inc. All rights reserved. www.pharmclips.com
This information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions, or adverse effects. This is general information and should not in any event be construed as specific instructions for individual patients. The publisher does not accept any responsibility for the accuracy of the information or the consequences arising from the application, use, or misuse of any of the information contained herein, including any injury and/or damage to any person or property as a matter of product liability, negligence, or otherwise. No warranty, expressed or implied, is made in regard to the contents of this material. The reader is advised to check with their health care provider before making any changes in their drug regimen.



Last reviewed:

On 8 Aug 2006

By John M. Grohol, Psy.D.



Keywords: cymbalta
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Posts: 3,539
Registered: May 2001
Location: Greater Boston, MA



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Anonymous
Review Date: Sat July 1, 2006 Would you recommend the product? Yes | Total Spent: $20.00| Rating: 7 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): Adequate anti-depressant
Negative aspects of the product (cons): Sexual side effects. Sleepiness.

It works well with mood stabilizers.
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alf0156

Member

Registered: August 2006
Posts: 60
Review Date: Thu August 31, 2006 Would you recommend the product? Yes | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 9 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): it works
Negative aspects of the product (cons): bad stomic cramps if not taken with a small amount of food

it works
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alisandria

Veteran Member

Registered: August 2006
Location: USA
Posts: 331
Review Date: Fri September 8, 2006 Would you recommend the product? No | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 6 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): N/A
Negative aspects of the product (cons): headache and agitation/anxiety

I tried this on two separate occassions with the hope I could get past the side effects, because I know it's also supposed to be good with neuropathic pain and hopefully would alleviate the pain I suffer. Thing is I could never get past the headaches I got. The second time I tried it I did manage to stay on for a month, but then just had to quit, I had migraines constantly and was experiencing more anxiety than prior to being on it (probably cause of the amount of pain I was in from migraines). Unfortunate because I know that this drug has worked well for many.
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Anonymous
Review Date: Wed September 13, 2006 Would you recommend the product? Yes | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 6 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): elevated my mood
Negative aspects of the product (cons): felt more anxious, lost weight, nausia and supressed apetite and sex drive.

I was on it for one and half months and although I did feel better, I got more panick attacks, and I completely stopped eating and passed out a lot because my blood pressure dropped so low.
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dottie

Magnate

Registered: July 2005
Location: Ohio
Posts: 2008
Review Date: Thu September 14, 2006 Would you recommend the product? No | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 9 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): elevated my mood
Negative aspects of the product (cons): bizarre dreming, nightmares, insomnia, headache, sinus congestion. Visual problems. Dry mouth,

I can't recommend this. Too many side effects. I have been on it for 2 years and the side effects seem to be worsening. Going to ask my doctor to change to another A-D. Groan.
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Xilber
New Member

Registered: December 2006
Posts: 3
Review Date: Fri December 1, 2006 Would you recommend the product? No | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 2 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): can't remember any
Negative aspects of the product (cons): sleepiness, constipation

Was on it for a short while for depression. I was extremely tired all the time and constantly constipated.
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superwoman
New Member

Registered: December 2006
Posts: 5
Review Date: Wed December 6, 2006 Would you recommend the product? No | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 3 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): worked okayish at first
Negative aspects of the product (cons): chronic insomnia, drowsiness,

Been on this med for 4 months. Felt better after about a week of being on it. It gave me some motivation to face my anxiety head on. The side effect of insomnia has not eased in all this time. Takes HOURS to get off to sleep then keep waking during the night. Very lethargic during the day. It seems to have now pooped out and my mood has dropped again. It helped my anxiety to a degree. I wouldn't recommend it because it's effects are not consistent.
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RollerCoaster
New Member

Registered: December 2006
Posts: 1
Review Date: Wed December 13, 2006 Would you recommend the product? Yes | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 2 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): Calming affect
Negative aspects of the product (cons): Major daytime sleepiness, Sexual problems, Dry mouth

This is the second time I have tried this stuff. It made me so sleepy I thought there was something else wrong with me....constantly yawning and lethargic. It did have a calming effect - like I haven't a care in the world - and would be great if I wanted to lay around the house and sleep all the time, but I am (was/want to be again) a very active person and have work to get done. Although it did not reduce sexual drive, it made climax nearly impossible and even then, not satisfying.
Since everyone is affected by these drugs differently, it is hard to make a recommendation....but if you are a physically, sexually active male who relies on being awake and alert for work, don't take this drug!
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bhill0821
New Member

Registered: December 2006
Posts: 1
Review Date: Sun December 17, 2006 Would you recommend the product? Yes | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 9 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): Great!! Really helps with my feelings
Negative aspects of the product (cons): Side effects, but if you stay on it and take it regular, they subside

Wow, alot of negatives about this medicine. I have been on this medicine for about 2 years. It really works. I stopped taking it for a few weeks and noticed a big difference in my mood and was crying all the time about any little thing. If I have to take this med for the rest of my life, so be it. I am going to get through life on a day by day of dealing with ups and downs by taking the med and enjoying life.
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sallyoop
New Member

Registered: December 2006
Posts: 3
Review Date: Wed December 20, 2006 Would you recommend the product? No | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 5 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): the world literally seemed brighter
Negative aspects of the product (cons): made me reckless

This medicine made me sleepy and worked wonders for the constant pain I was in due to my depression. I am not sure why I stopped it except that it seemed to worsen my anxiety and did not really help my depression.
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Anonymous
Review Date: Thu December 28, 2006 Would you recommend the product? Yes | Total Spent: $30.00| Rating: 9 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): helps with nerve pain, self injury urges, and depression
Negative aspects of the product (cons): none

This pill is a wonder drug. My psychiatrist and neurologist both reccomended it. It takes the place of 3 different perscriptions. I would reccomend it to anyone, especially if they have nerve pain!
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vanna123

Veteran Member

Registered: July 2005
Location: orange county
Posts: 364
Review Date: Sat January 27, 2007 Would you recommend the product? Yes | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 6 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): works well on the apin
Negative aspects of the product (cons): weird dreams

had some sucess with the pain -- did not help much with the depression
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ladyprime

Junior Member

Registered: November 2005
Location: santa maria,ca
Posts: 9
Review Date: Mon January 29, 2007 Would you recommend the product? Yes | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 0 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): working well for me ..until...
Negative aspects of the product (cons): none, really

until my MH nurse was a jerk and wouldnt give me full dosage to 'punish' me...then i went into a depresion, but out of it now.
after reading all these comments, it appears to not work to well for people, but it has been great for me..ive been on wellbutrin 450mg ( this stuff saved my life) ive beenon buspars for about a year, that doing well too, and the cymbalta for about 3-4 months...finally got my little'cocktail'correct
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SecretAngel
New Member

Registered: January 2007
Location: United States
Posts: 1
Review Date: Fri February 2, 2007 Would you recommend the product? No | Total Spent: $4.00| Rating: 1 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): None
Negative aspects of the product (cons): Horrible side effects when starting

When I started this medication I was so sick for the first week that I could barely get out of bed. I had a horrible headache, and my stomach was so upset that I was not eating or drinking. Eventually it got so bad that I was admitted to the hospital for dehydration.
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Pomegranate

Member

Registered: February 2007
Posts: 30
Review Date: Mon February 5, 2007 Would you recommend the product? Yes | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 8 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): helped daily pain
Negative aspects of the product (cons): episodes of heavy sweating or hot flashes

I was on Zoloft for major depression and anxiety for several years. But I suffered from joint, muscle and nerve pain daily, most often moderate, sometimes very bad. Switching to Cymbalta helped with the daily moderate pain in legs, upper spine and joints. The very bad lower back and joint pain was not affected but does not occur as often, so it brought me much pain relief along with the same relief from depression as the Zoloft gave me.

With the Zoloft I had no side effects after the first two months. With Cymblata the only side effect I have is hot flashes, a couple or so a day. Well worth the pain (and depression) relief to me.
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MoodyOne
New Member

Registered: April 2007
Posts: 1
Review Date: Wed April 18, 2007 Would you recommend the product? Yes | Total Spent: $0.86| Rating: 10 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros):
Negative aspects of the product (cons): None so far

Cymbalta I LOVE Cymbalta! This has been a miracle drug for me. I was already taking 100mg of Lamictal once per day when I initially started taking Cymbalta. I immediately started having some side effects including dry mouth, nausea, irregular heart beats and decreased appetite. However, my moods were so dramatically improved that I decided to wait it out. After about 10 days the side effects (all but the decreased appetite) went away. When people used to tell me that life wasn't that bad I never believed them. I can breathe now and I feel wonderful in my own skin. I used to break down crying at trivial things. As an added bonus I have lost 14 pounds! Yes, I am a Cymbalta cheerleader, but I do know that this is not for everyone. The docs had me on countless SSRI's before they tried this and none of them ever worked. In fact, they made my condition much, much worse. I hope this helps someone.
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jimmyjetta
Junior Member

Registered: May 2007
Posts: 8
Review Date: Sun May 13, 2007 Would you recommend the product? No | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 1 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): none
Negative aspects of the product (cons): migraines? feeling generally miserable.

Cymbalta is the only antidepressant I've taken to leave me feeling constantly awful. The only way I can describe it is as a coffee-buzz-gone-out-of-control with effects similar to some migraines (BTW, watch the espresso intake while on this drug: I experienced heart palpitations, sweats, and even worse than normal symptoms after coffee one evening).
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adamsmom

New Member

Registered: July 2007
Posts: 1
Review Date: Wed July 11, 2007 Would you recommend the product? No | Total Spent: $25.00| Rating: 2 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): none
Negative aspects of the product (cons): did not work at all for me

I was more depressed when taking this than I was before I took it.
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xp1155
Member

Registered: August 2007
Location: Ohio
Posts: 42
Review Date: Sun August 26, 2007 Would you recommend the product? Yes | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 7 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): helps physical symptoms, side effects were mild
Negative aspects of the product (cons): mania, dry mouth

This product was awesome at treating my physical symptoms of depression. I am in pain almost every day of my life and, with this drug, I was almost pain free. The dry mouth I had was tolerable. However, it did cause mania and I was not able to sleep. I think I might try it again with a mood stabilizer. If you suffer from physical symptoms of depression, or generalized pain, I highly encourage you to consider this treatment with your doctor.
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Prada
Member

Registered: August 2007
Location: Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
Posts: 33
Review Date: Fri September 14, 2007 Would you recommend the product? Yes | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 8 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): Took all my depression and anger away.
Negative aspects of the product (cons): Made me VERY anxious. Was on Neurontin to counter this.

It worked wonders for me. If it weren't for the price I would still be on it. The only problem was the anxiety it caused, I couldnt sit still no matter what dose I was on. They had me on Neurontin(800mg a day)to try to counter it though that only helped for the first 3 weeks.
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bellestar

Junior Member

Registered: September 2007
Location: NC
Posts: 9
Review Date: Wed September 19, 2007 Would you recommend the product? No | Total Spent: None indicated| Rating: 1 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): was able to hold my water better
Negative aspects of the product (cons): withdrawal

After four months, it just stopped working. It wasn't doing much good to start with as far as mood. THE worst part is withdrawal. I started in May and I'm still titrating down. I had to break open the caps and count pieces....every time I step down a few, I cry for two days off and on. I'm down to 8 little pieces a day...I'll do that for two weeks and then go to five or six.


NO WONDER they say you can be suicidal after taking this and then coming off....so, moral of my story....if you ever take this and need to get off, go as slowly as possible, break open the caps and do not follow the Dr's orders according to the drug maker. The lowest dose is 20mg....I probably take .005 mg at this point and still boo-hoo and get headaches.

IMO...it shouldn't be sold at all.
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102riley

Junior Member

Registered: October 2007
Location: Southeast Alabama
Posts: 9
Review Date: Wed October 10, 2007 Would you recommend the product? Yes | Total Spent: $23.00| Rating: 6 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): no serious side effects and I think I am doing a little better
Negative aspects of the product (cons): itchy, I started ichying three weeks after taking it

I have not been very pleased with this treatment. I do think it was a better addition to my mood stabalizers than the SSRS, which seem to get me going very fast with suicidal thoughts.
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biplr4me

Junior Member

Registered: July 2007
Location: Pewaukee, WI
Posts: 15
Review Date: Thu October 18, 2007 Would you recommend the product? Yes | Total Spent: $0.25| Rating: 8 

 
Positive aspects of the product (pros): Lightened mood, clearer thinking
Negative aspects of the product (cons): Possibly building a tolarance to it

I was placed on it to help my mood and ADHD. Worked well until now. I went up on the dosage 120mg per day and it only seems like my mood is flat, but my ADHD is still under control. Although to be fair I have been going through a very emotional time so that may be overwhelming to its effects. Total time on it is about 2 years and I do still get a headache now and then but most side effects are manageable. Overall I think it's a good med to use but I still have my questions on tolerance of it.*UPDATE* 05/01/08 I am now off it completely. It seemed to lose It's use for me. It was also suppressing my emotions. I do feel more up being off of it. It was a good med until I hit that wall of it no longer doing it's job. The weight loss is nice also being off of it. It may work for some but it stopped for me.
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