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
Thank you Chris, I have been taking Gabapentin for approx 5 yr, 300 mg 4 X a day with oxycodone 10 mg 4 X day. I was wondering if duloxetine would work better for me as the gabapentin makes me fuzzy and unsteady and unable to think ect. Its my understanding that duloxetine is a antidepressant and I am already taking Zoloft, do you know if the duloxetine could replace the Zoloft. I am desperate to try anything as the pain is unbearable at times. It was in late afternoons and now its all day but worse at night and in feet and in past 6 months has moved up to below knees, I also have RLS and when the two set in at same time, I walk the floors and cry. Thanks Chris for being there for all of us who suffer this disease Hope you are rewarded and have a blessed day. Zailey