Description
Cymbalta Duloxetine | Comprehensive Depression, Anxiety & Pain Guide
Cymbalta (Duloxetine) is a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) medication that affects certain chemicals in the brain that may become unbalanced in people experiencing depression. Duloxetine is used to treat several conditions involving mood, anxiety, and pain.
Cymbalta Duloxetine is used to treat major depressive disorder in adults. It is also used to treat generalized anxiety disorder in adults and children who are at least 7 years old. In addition to its uses for depression and anxiety, Cymbalta is prescribed for certain chronic pain conditions.
In adults, Cymbalta (Duloxetine) may be used to manage fibromyalgia, a chronic pain disorder, as well as ongoing muscle or joint pain, including lower back pain and pain associated with osteoarthritis. Duloxetine is also used to treat pain caused by nerve damage in adults with diabetes, a condition known as diabetic neuropathy.
There are important medication interactions and precautions associated with Cymbalta Duloxetine. Cymbalta should not be taken within 5 days before or 14 days after treatment with a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI). MAO inhibitors include isocarboxazid, linezolid, phenelzine, rasagiline, selegiline, tranylcypromine, and methylene blue injection. Combining these medications too closely together can result in a dangerous drug interaction.
Cymbalta should also not be used by individuals with narrow-angle glaucoma. Patients should inform their healthcare provider about their medical history and all medications they currently take before starting duloxetine.
Special attention should be paid to changes in mood and behavior when Cymbalta (Duloxetine) is first started, particularly in children, teenagers, and young adults. Some individuals may experience suicidal thoughts or other significant changes in mood or behavior when beginning antidepressant treatment. New or worsening symptoms such as anxiety, panic attacks, difficulty sleeping, irritability, agitation, hostility, aggression, restlessness, unusual increases in activity, worsening depression, or thoughts of suicide or self-harm should be reported to a healthcare professional promptly.
Patients should also avoid stopping Cymbalta Duloxetine suddenly without first speaking with their doctor. Discontinuing duloxetine without medical guidance may cause unwanted withdrawal or discontinuation symptoms. A healthcare professional can determine the appropriate way to reduce or stop treatment when necessary.
Because Cymbalta is used for multiple conditions and has important medication interactions and safety considerations, it should be taken only as directed by a qualified healthcare professional.
