What Are the Side Effects of Getting Off Cymbalta?
Cymbalta is a brand name prescription medication containing duloxetine hydrochloride 4. Although it is classified as an anti-depressant, Cymbalta is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat diabetic nerve pain, fibromyalgia and generalized anxiety disorder, as well as major depressive disorder. Abruptly stopping Cymbalta or similar antidepressants after extended use can lead to withdrawal symptoms. Instead, Cymbalta should be discontinued by slowly tapering off the drug over at least a two-week period, explains lead author David Perahia, M.D. in a 2005 article titled "Symptoms Following Abrupt Discontinuation of Duloxetine Treatment of Patients with Major Depressive Disorder" in the "Journal of Affective Disorders. 34"
If you are experiencing serious medical symptoms, seek emergency treatment immediately.
Dizziness
The study discussed in the 2005 "Journal of Affective Disorders" article found dizziness to be the most common effect of the abrupt cessation of duloxetine in patients with major depressive disorder 34. Similarly, some patients complain of a sensation that the room is spinning.
Nightmares
Cymbalta Withdrawal Symptoms
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Stopping Cymbalta abruptly may result in nightmares. It is also possible to have problems falling asleep, explains MedlinePlus, a website maintained by the National Institutes of Health 4.
Fatigue
Fatigue, or excessive tiredness, is a common complaint among individuals who suddenly stop taking Cymbalta, describes the drug's manufacturer. Difficulty with sleeping can compound the effects of fatigue.
Vomiting
Symptoms When Stopping Lexapro
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Nausea and vomiting may occur when stopping duloxetine 4. Diarrhea is another possible gastrointestinal complaint, explains MedlinePlus 4.
Tingling
It is possible to feel tingling or burning in the hands, arms, feet or legs as a result of Cymbalta withdrawal syndrome. One or more extremities may feel numb, which can cause the individual to fall or drop an object he is attempting to grasp. A sudden uncomfortable feeling similar to a mild electric shock may be felt in an arm or leg.
Headache
The drug's manufacturer reports that headache is a common effect of abrupt discontinuation of Cymbalta. Like the other effects, this often resolves within a week.
Anxiety
Some people become irritable or anxious during duloxetine withdrawal 4. It is possible to feel moody or have a mood that is unusual for one's circumstances, such as feeling restless and discontented despite having a satisfying day. Anxiety may be accompanied by excessive sweating.
Depression
Some individuals with major depressive disorder have a resumption of depressive symptoms when Cymbalta is discontinued, whether it is stopped abruptly or tapered 3. Like the other effects, the prescribing physician should be made aware of feelings of depression.
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References
- “2010 Lippincott’s Nursing Drug Guide”; Amy M. Karch, R.N., M.S.; 2010
- Eli Lilly and Company: Cymbalta Full Prescribing Information
- "Journal of Affective Disorders"; Symptoms Following Abrupt Discontinuation of Duloxetine Treatment of Patients with Major Depressive Disorder; David G. Perahia, M.D., et al.; 2005
- MedlinePlus: Duloxetine
- Bitter E, Filipovits D, Czobor P. Adverse reactions to duloxetine in depression. Expert Opinion on Drug Safety. 2011;10(6):839-850. doi:10.1517/14740338.2011.582037
- Hellerstein DJ, Stewart JW, McGrath PJ, Deliyannides DA, Batchelder ST, Black SR, Withers A, O'Shea D, Chen Y. A randomized controlled trial of duloxetine versus placebo in the treatment of nonmajor chronic depression. J Clin Psychiatry. 2012;73(7):984-91. doi:10.4088/JCP.11m07230
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Highlights of prescribing information: Cymbalta (duloxetine hydrochloride) - delayed-release capsules for oral use. Updated October 2019.
- Vladimir S, et al. Efficacy and safety of duloxetine in patients with chronic low back pain. Spine. 2010; 35(13): E578-E585. doi:10.1097/BRS.0b013e3181d3cef6
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J. Lucy Boyd, RN, BSN has written several nonfiction books including "The Complete Guide to Healthy Cooking and Nutrition for College Students." She is frequently called upon to provide career guidance to medical professionals and advice to parents of children with challenges. She also loves teaching others to cook for their families.