Sometimes, tapering off of Cymbalta — or any antidepressant — may feel like more than you can handle. When this happens, your doctor may ask you to go back on the medication and taper more slowly. Most short-term withdrawal side effects can last for up to 6 weeks, but this can be influenced by the half-life of the drug. In some cases, persistent withdrawal disorders can cause symptoms that last for months, although the research on these cases is limited. In terms of tapering methods, there generally is not one single recommended way that applies to all medications and all patients. Methods employed tend to be very individualized based on medical history, age, length of prescription use etc…
- One case report described a seizure occurring a 59 year old woman who abruptly stopped treatment.
- However, if you experience these symptoms, seeking support and treatment is essential.
- If Cymbalta doesn’t work for you, ask your doctor to recommend something else.
- All the FDA suggests is that stopping be gradual and monitored by a doctor.
- Abruptly stopping the drug can lead to a sudden decrease in these neurotransmitters, which can cause withdrawal symptoms.
Drug information
The severity of withdrawal symptoms can vary from person to person, depending on how long you have been taking the medication, the dosage, and other factors. Withdrawal symptoms from Cymbalta can include nausea, dizziness, headache, pins and needles, insomnia, anxiety, and seizures. It is important to taper off the medication slowly under the guidance of a healthcare professional to avoid these symptoms. Other options are available to help manage withdrawal symptoms, such as over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-nausea medication. Cymbalta withdrawal can be particularly challenging due to its effect on the brain’s serotonin and norepinephrine levels. Abrupt changes in these neurotransmitters can lead to significant physical and psychological symptoms.
Withdrawal Symptoms of Cymbalta
It is unclear whether or not a slow Cymbalta taper will always prevent withdrawal symptoms, but it is generally considered the safest way to stop an antidepressant. There is one report of a withdrawal seizure and one report of withdrawal symptoms coming and going over a period of ten months. Based on the duloxetine (Cymbalta) studies, 65% of those who experienced withdrawal symptoms, said their symptoms went away in about one week. Reaching out to loved ones can provide emotional support and understanding during your withdrawal process. Sharing your experiences with friends and family can make you feel less isolated and provide a sense of comfort and security. If they start at a higher dose or have been abusing the drug, a different plan is needed.
The study included 870 patients with a diagnosis of depression, and Cymbalta compared to a placebo (an inactive capsule). In studies, most withdrawal side effects (65%) resolved within 7 days of stopping treatment. Nearly all patients rated these side mixing suboxone and alcohol effects as mild-to-moderate in severity.
You deserve excellent care and a rewarding life in recovery.
Common withdrawal symptoms for duloxetine include dizziness, nausea, and trouble sleeping, among others. Addiction Resource is an educational platform for sharing and disseminating information about addiction and substance abuse recovery centers. Addiction Resource is not a healthcare provider, nor does it claim to offer sound medical advice to anyone. Addiction Resource does not favor or support any specific recovery center, nor do we claim to ensure the quality, validity, or effectiveness of any particular treatment center. No one should assume the information provided on Addiction Resource as authoritative and should always defer to the advice and care provided by a medical doctor. Withdrawal symptoms of Duloxetine can include severe deterioration of a person’s mental state, relapse of depression or anxiety, panic attacks, and an increased risk of suicide.
Brain zaps caused by quitting the medication are often accompanied by disorientation and lightheadedness. While significantly disturbing to many, brain zaps are not known to present any health danger to the person. Frequently, patients will choose to can alcoholics eat food cooked with alcohol stop duloxetine for a combination of reasons. For example, Cymbalta can make patients gain weight in some cases, which can happen in addition to the medication no longer being effective.
Supplements that may help with Cymbalta withdrawal include Omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, and B vitamins. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to reduce inflammation and improve brain function. When it comes to coping with Cymbalta withdrawal, a few strategies can help. About 50% of people who recover from one episode of depression will have more depressive episodes in their lifetime. If you have had more than one episode, there is about an 80% chance you will have another.
Experts can help users safely stop the drug and find coping mechanisms for staying clean and healthy. The treatment programs are often individual to ensure a long-lasting recovery. Knowing that stopping Cymbalta cold turkey is dangerous, it might seem odd that people would consider this method. When people lose their insurance or cannot afford the next month of pills, there is a possibility they will not have another option. This is why it’s important to always taper off this medication under a doctor’s supervision. However, if you’re experiencing symptoms that make it difficult to function or are experiencing new or worsening suicidal thoughts, reach out to your doctor immediately.
The most commonly cited symptom was dizziness, followed by nausea and headache. Talking to a therapist or counselor can provide strategies to cope with emotional and psychological withdrawal symptoms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) and other counseling methods can be particularly effective during this transition. Knowing the potential signs of Cymbalta withdrawal, and Cymbalta discontinuation syndrome and how to handle them is critical in safely stopping this medication. The duration of Cymbalta withdrawal can vary, staying motivated in recovery but in most cases, symptoms will improve within a few weeks.