@zailey
Neither one worked for me.
Jake

Good morning @zailey, thank you for joining our discussion about duloxetine (Cymbalta). I don't think there is a universal answer to this question. As we are learning, everyone reacts differently to medications. And as it has been noted, side effects can vary over a pretty broad spectrum.
We also know that these medications can vary in dosage, time of day taken, and interactions with other medications currently being taken.

Looking at my five years of gabapentin and two years of duloxetine, I would have to say that Gabapentin had more side effects for me in the early days of my neuropathy. It also worked immediately to relieve me of tingling pain in my hands, wrists, and arms. Duloxetine was initiated and then recently increased to relieve the anxiety that increased my level of neuropathy pain.

Regarding side effects, they were different. Constipation seems to be a side effect of practically any medication you use. Fuzziness and unsteadiness were always a potential side effect of Gabapentine, for me. I took a heavy dose(1200mg) at night and had difficulty navigating to the bathroom. That was always with me. I no longer have any side effects from duloxetine....except for constipation which I expect with medications of any kind. The dizziness at onset has completely disappeared,

I hope this helps. Maybe others can clarify the issue with their responses.

May you be safe, protected, and free from inner and outer harm.
Chris