What is Cymbalta®?

Cymbalta® is one of the more popular brand names for the drug duloxetine hydrocholoride. Primarily used in the treatment of various types of depression and anxiety disorders, Cymbalta® can also be employed in the treatment of pain connected with diabetic issues such as nerve damage and peripheral neuropathy. The drug functions by inhibiting the reuptake of serotonin and norepinephrine, helping to restore balance to the emotions of the patient.

As with most types of antidepressants, Cymbalta® has proven to be helpful for many people while having no positive effect on others. Generally, the efficacy of the antidepressant will begin to manifest itself within a couple of weeks, although some people report experiencing no change for as long as three months. As the drug gets into the system, people who respond well to Cymbalta® will begin to notice a gradual return to a more optimistic mindset as well as being less susceptible to sudden periods of deep depression or sudden anxiety. Over time, the dosage of the drug may be reduced when and as the attending physician determines that an adjustment is necessary.

Cymbalta® users have reported a number of side effects that may occur while taking the drug. For some people, the side effects are mild and may fade with time. Others experience extremely uncomfortable symptoms. When this is the case, the problem should be reported to the doctor immediately, so that the dosage can be adjusted or the patient can be switched to a different antidepressant.

Among the more common side effects of Cymbalta® is a sense of being fatigued, even upon rising in the morning. The drug sometimes suppresses appetite or causes then vision to blur. Nausea, vomiting, and issues with both constipation and diarrhea have also been reported. Changes in libido are not unusual, along with the development of cold hands and feet.

While many of the side effects of Cymbalta® are manageable, some users experience effects that are extremely frightening and potentially dangerous. Patients who find that the drug tends to trigger heart palpitations, increase anxiety levels, or elevates the severity of thoughts of suicide or doing harm to self should waste no time contacting a physician immediately.

Available by prescription only, Cymbalta® is considered a controlled substance in most areas of the world where it is marketed. When tapering off the drug, there is the possibility of experiencing what is known as rebound depression or anxiety. As with most antidepressants, it is not recommended to discontinue the use of Cymbalta® abruptly without the permission of your physician. In most cases, the dosage is incrementally reduced until the physician determines that the patient can cease taking the drug without experiencing a great deal of distress.