Cymbalta

From MEpedia, a crowd-sourced encyclopedia of ME and CFS science and history
Box of duloxetine
Generic cymbalta (duloxetine)

Duloxetine, more commonly known under the brand name Cymbalta is an antidepressant drug that is also licensed for anxiety and for several different types of chronic pain. Duloxetine is also sold under the name Yentreve in some countries.[1][2][3] Duloxetine is a selective-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor antidepressant (SNRI), and was only approved in the US in 2004.[2]

Theory[edit | edit source]

Cymbalta may be useful for some symptoms of ME/CFS, particularly pain, as well as for any co-existing depression or anxiety.

Chronic pain[edit | edit source]

2 blue capsules of duloxetine
Duloxetine 20mg capsules

Duloxetine is licensed for fibromyalgia, musculoskeletal pain, and pain caused by diabetic peripheral neuropathy (a form of nerve pain).[2]

Clinicians[edit | edit source]

Risks and safety[edit | edit source]

Cymbalta has been associated with very long term and problematic discontinuation symptoms, which led to a number of law suits in the United States.[citation needed]

Costs and availability[edit | edit source]

Cymbalta/duloxetine is a prescription only drug.[3]

Generic Cymbalta (duloxetine) is widely available in many countries, which has reduced costs.[3]

Notable studies[edit | edit source]

See also[edit | edit source]

Learn more[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  1. FDA. "Cymbalta overview: FDA Approved Drug Products". FDA@drugs. Retrieved August 5, 2019.
  2. 2.0 2.1 2.2 FDA (2007). "Duloxetine label" (PDF). FDA@drugs. Retrieved August 5, 2019.
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 "Duloxetine: Uses, Side Effects, Dosage, Warnings". Drugs.com. Retrieved August 5, 2019.