Cymbalta contains duloxetine and is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) medication. Cymbalta is prescribed to treat depression and anxiety and to relieve nerve pain. Duloxetine works by restoring the balance of natural chemicals serotonin and norepinephrine in your brain. Taking this medication can help to improve your mood, energy levels, appetite and sleep.

Always read the medication information and instructions before using this medication.
Always follow your doctor’s directions.

• Duloxetine can be taken with or without food. Taking Cymbalta with food can help to prevent nausea.
• Swallow Cymbalta capsules whole without breaking, opening or crushing.
• It can take up to four weeks of taking Cymbalta before your symptoms improve. Continue taking this medication regularly.
• Do not stop taking duloxetine without speaking to a doctor.

Make sure to tell your doctor:

• If you have any drug or other allergies.
• If you take any other prescription or over-the-counter medications.
• Your medical history especially of blood clotting disorders, bleeding disorders, kidney disease, liver disease, seizures, epilepsy, difficulty urinating, high blood pressure, glaucoma, diabetes, bipolar disorder, manic depression or suicidal thoughts.
• If you are breast-feeding.
• If you have ever had a drug addiction.

Other information you should also know:

• Taking Cymbalta during the third trimester of pregnancy can cause problems in a newborn. Speak to your doctor if you are pregnant.
• Older adults and children may be more sensitive to the side effects of Cymbalta.
• Some young people can have suicidal thoughts when they first take an antidepressant medication. Make sure your family or other caregivers are alert to mood changes.

Common side effects of Cymbalta:

• Nausea.
• Constipation.
• Feeling tired or drowsy.
• Increased sweating.
• Dry mouth.
• Weight loss or loss of appetite.
• Dizziness.

If you have any of the following duloxetine side effects, seek medical help:

• New or worsening mood or behavior changes. This can include feeling anxious, impulsive, irritated, agitate, hostile, aggressive, restless or hyperactive or panic attacks, depression or sleeping problems.
• Suicidal thoughts or actions.
• Feeling lightheaded or like you might pass out.
• Eye pain, redness or swelling.
• Vision changes.
• Painful or difficult urination.
• Unusual bleeding or easy bruising.
• Seizures.
• Serotonin syndrome symptoms including nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, agitation, hallucinations, fever, sweating, shivering, fast heart rate, muscle stiffness, twitching or a loss of coordination.
• Signs that you have low levels of sodium including vomiting, slurred speech, severe weakness, confusion, headaches, loss of coordination or feeling unsteady.
• Signs of a severe skin reaction such as fever, sore throat, swelling in your face or tongue, burning in your eyes or a skin pain which is followed by a red or purple skin rash that spreads especially to your face or upper body and causes blistering and peeling.
• Signs of liver problems including dark urine, right-sided upper stomach pain, itching or jaundice.
• Symptoms of an allergic reaction including difficulty breathing, hives or swelling in your face, lips or throat.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Cymbalta?

If you miss a dose of Cymbalta, you should take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, then skip your missed dose.

What is the generic alternative to Cymbalta?

Generic Cymbalta is known as duloxetine and is available in 20mg and 40mg strengths as well as the same 30mg and 60mg strengths as brand name Cymbalta.