What's your experience with duloxetine (US Brand Name; Cymbalta)?

I seem to always have problems with side effects with medications. I would love to be able to not have to take pain medications; such as the hydrocodone or oxycodone. I’m hoping my oncologist office gets back to me today to see if I could start taking a lower dose; maybe 20 mg instead of the 30 mg. I don’t want the lightheadedness feeling all day. Thank you, for your response. I appreciate it.

@d13

I think you have a good idea about asking to lower the dose of Duloxetine to 20 mg instead of 30. Whenever I start a new medication I ask for the lowest dose that is available and start with that. If I need more, I can always call the office and request a higher dose but that is usually not necessary. Like you, I have a high sensitivity to medications.

Another thing that has worked for me is to take the Duloxetine earlier in the evening, rather than at bedtime. That way some of the "fuzzy effects" like dizziness, sleepiness, etc. have worn off by the time I get up in the morning. I usually take the Duloxetine at least 2 hours before bedtime.

Also, if you take a lot of meds, be sure to drink lots and lots of water. Keeping hydrated is important for overall health and when you take meds it is really important.

I'm looking forward to hearing from you after your next appointment. Will you post again?

I was told to try the Duloxetine again, but take they too said to take it earlier in the day. I’m just worried about having to go through too many hours with the lightheadedness. Will it go away with time or not? And how many days of the lightheadedness would I have to endure if that’s the case? And I’m to call back on Monday to tell them how I reacted this time. The same dosage; 30 mg is what they want me to stick with.

Hi again, @d13

As I also have a hard time adjusting to new meds, I try to give myself at least 10 days to adjust. It takes my body and mind just a little longer than most folks. (Slow learner, I suppose.)

It is impossible to say how long the side effects will last because we are all different in how we metabolize meds. If you decide to give the earlier time a try, keep me posted on how you are getting along.

I look forward to hearing from you again.

Ok, we’ll see how it goes!

I have also been taking Cymbalta for years (15) . I take it for depression and haven't noticed any side effects. It has helped me a lot, especially after trying other meds; Effexor, Paxil. I take 120mg daily. Your health condition is different from mine so it is always good to talk to your pharmacist. I hope it helps you and wish you all the best!

Welcome, @luv2hike. Such wise advice. One's pharmacist is a great source of information that people don't always think of as part of their health team. I ask my pharmacist a lot of questions.

I assume by your choice of username that you are a hiker. How does hiking, nature and physical activity play into your mental wellness?

Hello- I do love to hike year around! In the winter, often on snow shoes. I have been physically active my entire life as I have always liked to be outside and moving! As early as my 20's I noticed how good I felt when I was outside( vs. being at the gym) There's something about fresh air and sunshine that I can't seem to get in any pill.

Of course, It is harder in the winter to bundle up and get out, especially when its been so icy this year. I eventually HAVE to go outside or I feel crabby and more anxious than usual.

One of my daughters was a fitness professional in corporate fitness and created over 100 videos when Covid 1st began and they have been instrumental in keeping me fit and sane over the past 2 plus years.

I truly need to be outside, especially when the sun is out! I tell my husband that the feeling is hard to describe when I am out in the nature reserve we live a mile from . Wherever we go we find hiking trails. We went to CO for the 1st time and hiked in the mountains there, so exhilarating and exhausting and beautiful!

Last summer , I bought a paddleboard and learned to paddle ( a big feat for someone who can't swim and is very afraid of deep water- of course I wear a Lifejacket) I find it's very peaceful on the lake too! I enjoy bicycling and yoga as well!

I am fortunate to have a very active and supportive family, as depression and anxiety can ebb and flow for most of us, I think. My adult daughters especially encourage me and call me for walks, hikes, etc. My husband is the only one who is aware of my depression and anxiety. My mom would worry herself sick. I think our adult children are aware of my anxiety, but depression is so hard to explain and I don't want to worry them.

When I was initially diagnosed about 20 years ago, I tried to confide in one of my sister's and she threw it back at me during an argument saying " at least I don't need pills to make me happy", and another time saying " why can't you just be happy". These words stay with me still. I realize that is just ignorance talking , but it still hurts. Those of us who suffer know it isn't as easy as saying " be happy" . That it's really something you can't control like flipping a switch on and off.

I've had some pretty tough days again lately and am going back to therapy after a year hiatus. Unfortunately, the need is great out there and I can't see someone until the end of June! I am seeing a temporary therapist virtually this week, so we'll see how this goes. Not sure if I need something in addition to the Cymbalta, but if anyone has had something work for them , I'd love to hear their experience. While I realize we are all different and respond differently to meds , it's always good to hear from others!

Thank You!

I am very sensitive to meds, so I have to start one lower than what the companies think is a starting dose. Maybe that could help with side effects. It has for me.

Hello d13. I have been on Cymbalta for eight years. I now take twice as much as I originally took. I notice no difference or side effects. Some of the medications you take may interact with duloxetine. I would also recommend talking with your pharmacist.

lsittll