Cymbalta (Duloxetine) for Fibromyalgia

Overview
Cymbalta is a prescription medication originally approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2004 for the treatment of depression. Cymbalta was approved in 2010 for the management of fibromyalgia. The drug name of Cymbalta is Duloxetine. Cymbalta is not a cure for fibromyalgia, but it can reduce pain and improve daily function for some people with fibromyalgia.

Cymbalta must be used with caution and closely monitored in people with a history of depression, liver or kidney problems, high or low blood pressure, diabetes, seizures, or alcohol dependence. Cymbalta is not suitable for use by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Cymbalta is an antidepressant in the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) class. It is believed that Cymbalta works in cases of fibromyalgia by blocking certain channels through which pain signals are communicated.

How do I take it?
Cymbalta is a capsule taken orally one or two times a day. Cymbalta may be taken with or without food. It is important to take Cymbalta at approximately the same times each day. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking Cymbalta, since it can exacerbate some side effects.

Certain common analgesic drugs (painkillers) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen may exacerbate some side effects. Avoid taking these drugs while taking Cymbalta.

If you decide to stop taking Cymbalta, consult your doctor on how to taper off. Do not abruptly stop taking Cymbalta.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions exactly when taking Cymbalta.

Results
The FDA approved Duloxetine (Cymbalta) based on the results of two clinical trials involving a total of 874 people with fibromyalgia. After the first week of each study, those who took Duloxetine reported reductions in pain by 51 percent and 55 percent respectively as compared with those who took the placebo. At the end of the trials, 65 percent and 66 percent of those taking Duloxetine reported significant improvements in well-being over those who took the placebo.

Side effects
Common side effects of Cymbalta include nausea, constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, insomnia, dizziness, and dry mouth.

Call your doctor if you experience confusion, changes in amount or color of urine, muscle tremors, decreased libido or sexual ability, or yellowing of your eyes or skin while taking Cymbalta.

Some people experience neurological symptoms including depression or suicidal thoughts while taking Cymbalta. Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects.

Cymbalta can also cause allergic or hypersensitive reactions. Get medical help immediately if you experience difficulty breathing or swelling in the face, throat, eyes, lips, or tongue.