Anxieties and depression are quite common in our daily lives. But, if you are witnessing persistent episodes of such mental conditions it needs timely treatment. Drugs belonging to a genre called serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors are widely prescribed to treat such problems. Among such drugs, Cymbalta is a commonly administered med in this genre. This drug is used for the case management of mood swings including depression, anxieties, etc. But, what can help manage withdrawal signs caused by Cymbalta? It is a key thing to know more on this front.
What are serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibiting (SNRI) meds?
SNRIs are drugs that make brain chemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine to be greatly available in the system. This is made possible by controlling the re-absorption (also referred to as reuptake) of such transmitting substances into the nervous system. Of these two transmitters, serotonin causes a sense of wellbeing or satisfaction; this hormone sends information of happiness, ecstasy and wellness. Another good thing about this is – it helps you sleep well, eat well and maintain good emotional health.
Another important nerve-transmitting chemical is norepinephrine; it makes you focussed, alert and also to stay prepared. Presence of this chemical (and its transmitting properties) enables a better vigil over your surroundings. Widely prescribed SNRI meds are Effexor (a brand based on a generic called venlafaxine), Irenka (another popular brand made based on a generic known as duloxetine) and Pristiq (is made of a generic med called desvenlafaxine).
What is Cymbalta and what are its withdrawal symptoms?
The generic version of Cymbalta is called duloxetine. This drug helps treat conditions such as generalised anxiety disorder – GAD, being depressed and muscular pains among adults. As an extended use, its active ingredients can also manage painful nerves – a condition called neuropathy (especially, peripheral type of pains), among people living with autoimmune conditions like diabetes.
The typical doses may range from 40 milligrams (mg) – 120 mg each day, for 6 to 7 weeks. People who took such dosage plans experienced signs of withdrawal if the med is stopped suddenly. You are more likely to experience discomforts like migraines, being dizzy, nausea along with vomiting, burning sensation on your skin, weird dreams and / or being in an irritated state of mind.
How to manage withdrawal symptoms of Cymbalta?
People who took the highest dosage form – i.e., of 120 mg each day – experienced acute level of withdrawal problems. A time-tested approach is to gradually slowdown the doses over about 3 weeks. An abrupt stop to dosages is largely considered to start most of the aforesaid discomforts. It hence becomes important to consult with your caregiver prior to bringing your medication plan to a logical close.
However, a gradual tapering-off of the doses does not completely prevent signs of withdrawal. If you experience dizziness or headaches (even after a tapered dosage plan), your doctor is more likely to taper it even more gradually.
In sum, as your impulse gets over, SNRI meds – like Cymbalta / duloxetine – make transmitting chemicals like serotonin and norepinephrine to stay back (i.e., not being absorbed). Meds such as Cymbalta (or, other brands of duloxetine) must not be consumed as over the counter (OTC) drugs. Instead, these meds are to be consumed strictly as per the instructions of qualified clinical professional or pharmacist. In order to avoid signs of withdrawal, it is a safe practice to slow down the last few doses. If side effects like migraines, nausea and dizziness persist (after gradually reducing the dosage strengths), you are advised to seek medical help on an emergency mode.
Disclaimer
Information provided here are only of supplementary nature. Information shared here does not substitute a qualified doctor’s advice. This website is not suggesting intake of this drug as safe or appropriate. Hence it is advised to talk to your doctor before consuming this med or any other drug.
Education: Master’s in Clinical Nutrition from Tufts University. Experience: 6 years of experience as a registered dietitian and freelance writer, creating content on nutritional science and weight management for various health websites.
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