Overview
Title: Understanding and Managing Cymbalta Side Effects
Cymbalta, also known by its active ingredient duloxetine, is a widely-prescribed medication with various uses. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved it to treat a range of conditions in adults, including fibromyalgia, chronic musculoskeletal pain, pain from diabetic neuropathy, generalized anxiety disorder, and major depressive disorder (commonly known as depression). In certain children, Cymbalta is approved for treating generalized anxiety disorder at age 7 and above, as well as fibromyalgia at age 13 and above 1.
As with any prescription drug, Cymbalta can cause side effects. This article will explore some of the common, mild, and serious side effects associated with Cymbalta, along with insights from clinical trials to provide a holistic perspective on its effects.
Fast Facts About Cymbalta
- Active Ingredient: Duloxetine
- Drug Class: Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor (SNRI)
- Form: Delayed-release capsule
- FDA Approval Year: 2004
Common Side Effects of Cymbalta
Cymbalta can cause certain side effects, some of which may be temporary but may also persist for an extended period. If any side effects linger or become bothersome, make sure to consult with your doctor or pharmacist.
The following list includes some of the more frequent side effects reported in clinical trials by individuals who took Cymbalta 1:
- Loss of appetite
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Constipation*
- Nausea*
Mild Side Effects of Cymbalta
Mild side effects can occur with Cymbalta use and may not require medical attention. However, it's essential to be aware of these possibilities to enable informed decision-making.
Mild side effects reported in clinical trials for Cymbalta include, but are not limited to:
- Abdominal pain (stomach pain)
- Diarrhea
- Dizziness
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Excessive sweating
- Insomnia
- Heart palpitations
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea*
- Headache*
It's essential to consult your doctor or pharmacist if any mild side effects last for an extended period or become bothersome.
Serious Side Effects of Cymbalta
Cymbalta may cause serious side effects. It's critical to consult your doctor immediately or seek medical assistance if any such side effects arise.
Angle-closure glaucoma
Symptoms include:
- Blurred vision
- Eye pain
- Seeing halos or rings around lights
- Severe headache
Hyponatremia (low blood sodium levels)
Symptoms include:
- Confusion
- Difficulty concentrating
- Muscle weakness
High blood pressure
Symptoms are typically absent. However, long-term high blood pressure can cause various health issues.
Liver damage
Symptoms include:
- Dark-colored urine
- Fatigue
- Itchiness
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
Orthostatic hypotension (low blood pressure when standing up)
Symptoms include:
- Dizziness
- Blurred vision
- Risk of fainting or falls
Seizure
Symptoms include:
- Tingling in the hands or feet
- Loss of taste, smell, or hearing
- Convulsions or spasms
Serotonin syndrome (too much serotonin in the body)
Symptoms include:
- Agitation
- Delirium
- Dizziness
- Fast heart rate
- Fever
- Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
- Seizure
- Sweating or flushing
- Tremors
Severe skin reactions
Including Stevens-Johnson syndrome
Difficulty urinating
Symptoms include:
- Decreased urine flow
- Inability to urinate
Withdrawal symptoms
Especially when stopping the drug suddenly
Risk of suicidal thoughts
Particularly for children, adolescents, and young adults up to 24 years old 1
Side Effects in Children
Cymbalta is approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder in children aged 7 and above and fibromyalgia in children aged 13 and above 1. The list below highlights some of the common side effects reported in clinical trials for these age groups:
- Loss of appetite
- Decreased weight
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Vomiting
- Nausea*
FAQs about the Side Effects of Cymbalta
Is weight gain a side effect of Cymbalta?
Weight gain was not reported in Cymbalta's clinical trials. However, weight gain can stem from depression or chronic medical conditions associated with Cymbalta's treatment. Consult your doctor if you have concerns about weight gain.
Can Cymbalta cause long-term side effects?
Some serious side effects of Cymbalta, like liver damage and angle-closure glaucoma, may have long-term implications. Consult your doctor if you experience any serious side effects.
Most mild side effects of Cymbalta are temporary, lasting a few days to weeks. However, if side effects persist, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Does Cymbalta cause different side effects in women versus men?
In clinical trials, males and females reported some differences in side effects. Males reported more sexual side effects, such as erectile dysfunction, whereas females did not show a significant difference in sexual side effects compared to a placebo.
How long does it take to notice Cymbalta's side effects?
Side effects of Cymbalta may appear within a few days to weeks of starting the medication. However, some side effects may become apparent later. Consult your doctor if you notice any concerning side effects.
Conclusion
Cymbalta is a widely-prescribed medication with various uses. Common, mild, and serious side effects can occur with Cymbalta use, and it's crucial to be aware of these possibilities to enable informed decision-making.
Always consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns about Cymbalta's side effects or its suitability for you.
References
[1] "Cymbalta (duloxetine) side effects," Medical News Today, Medical News Today, accessed 17 Jan 2023.
[2] NLM.NIH.GOV (2005). FDA Package Insert: Cymbalta. US National Library of Medicine.
[3] "A Guide to Cymbalta Side Effects & Dosage," DrugWatch, DrugWatch, accessed 17 Jan 2023.
[4] "Cymbalta: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosage," RxList, RxList, accessed 17 Jan 2023.
- If you have diabetes, using Cymbalta for pain management might require careful monitoring of your health, as it can affect blood sugar levels.
- Mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, often coexist with physical diseases like fibromyalgia. In such cases, a combination of medications like Cymbalta and therapy can be beneficial.
- While Cymbalta can help manage symptoms of Fibromyalgia, it's essential to address potential mental health concerns, such as anxiety and depression, as they can exacerbate pain and affect overall well-being.
- In some cases, individuals may experience mental health side effects, such as increased anxiety or depression, while taking Cymbalta. If you notice changes in your mood or mental state, it's important to discuss these concerns with your doctor.
- Pharmacists play a crucial role in providing patients with essential information about medications like Cymbalta. They can help manage side effects, clarify any concerns, and offer advice for improving treatment outcomes.
