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  • Mental Health Issues
    • Anxiety
    • ADHD
    • Bipolar Disorder
    • Depression
    • Grief
    • Narcissism
    • OCD
    • Personality Disorders
    • PTSD
  • Relationships
    • Dating
    • Marriage
    • Sex & Intimacy
    • Infidelity
    • Relationships 101
    • Best Online Couples Counseling Services
  • Wellness
    • Anger
    • Burnout
    • Stress
    • Sleep
    • Meditation
    • Mindfulness
    • Yoga
  • Therapy
    • Starting Therapy
    • Types of Therapy
    • Best Online Therapy Providers
    • Online Therapy Reviews & Guides
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    • Anxiety Medication
    • Depression Medication
    • ADHD Medication
    • Best Online Psychiatrist Options
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    • Best Online Therapy with Insurance
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  • Common Side EffectsCommon Side Effects
  • Serious Side EffectsSerious Side Effects
  • Risks & WarningsRisks & Warnings
  • Important Things to KnowImportant Things to Know
  • Who Has More Side Effects?Who Has More Side Effects?
  • How to CopeHow to Cope
  • Managing Side EffectsManaging Side Effects
  • Shoudl I Stop Taking It?Shoudl I Stop Taking It?
  • AlternativesAlternatives
  • How to GetHow to Get
  • Questions to AskQuestions to Ask
  • Prescriber's TipsPrescriber's Tips
  • Additional ResourcesAdditional Resources

Side Effects of (Duloxetine) Cymbalta

Diana Rangaves, PharmD, RPh

Author: Diana Rangaves, PharmD, RPh

Diana Rangaves, PharmD, RPh

Diana Rangaves PharmD, RPh

Diana Rangaves is an accomplished pharmacist and expert in behavioral health pharmacology. Her areas of expertise include patient education, medication cost-reduction, and patient-centered treatment.

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Headshot of Dena Westphalen, Pharm. D.

Medical Reviewer: Dena Westphalen, Pharm.D Licensed medical reviewer

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Dena Westphalen PharmD

Dr. Dena Westphalen is a pharmacist with expertise in clinical research and drug information. She has interests in neurology, oncology, and global health.

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Published: March 6, 2025
  • Common Side EffectsCommon Side Effects
  • Serious Side EffectsSerious Side Effects
  • Risks & WarningsRisks & Warnings
  • Important Things to KnowImportant Things to Know
  • Who Has More Side Effects?Who Has More Side Effects?
  • How to CopeHow to Cope
  • Managing Side EffectsManaging Side Effects
  • Shoudl I Stop Taking It?Shoudl I Stop Taking It?
  • AlternativesAlternatives
  • How to GetHow to Get
  • Questions to AskQuestions to Ask
  • Prescriber's TipsPrescriber's Tips
  • Additional ResourcesAdditional Resources
Brand name:
Cymbalta
Generic name:
Duloxetine
Is the generic available:
Yes
Class of drug:
SNRI
Boxed warning:
Yes
FDA-approved treatments:
Major Depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder, diabetic neuropathy, Fibromyalgia, musculoskeletal pain
Common Off-label Uses (non-FDA approved):
Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, stress urinary incontinence, osteoarthritic pain
Common alternatives:

Zoloft, Celexa, Prozac

View Drug Class, FDA-Approved Uses, Off-Label Uses, and more

*An off-label use of a medication is a use that is not FDA-approved. Prescribers can decide to use a medication off-label because, in their professional judgment, they believe it may offer a benefit to someone.

Common Cymbalta side effects include nausea, fatigue, changes in sleep, and sexual dysfunction. Serious side effects require medical attention such as a risk of suicidal thoughts, symptoms of mania, and allergic reactions.

One of the most common reasons people want to stop taking a medication is the occurrence of side effects. If Cymbalta side effects persist beyond the first few weeks, a prescriber can help you determine next steps, which may include a change in dosage, timing of dosage, or to a different medication.

If you are considering Cymbalta or want to discuss your current medication treatment with a provider, online psychiatry platforms, such as Talkiatry and Brightside Health are a good place to start. Their providers offer assessments and prescription consultation, and can answer any questions you have about Cymbalta’s side effects.

Boxed Warning: Duloxetine (Cymbalta) – Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in certain people

Click here to open and close the box warning container.

Cymbalta, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Duloxetine can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Regardless of your age, you should talk with your doctor about serious risks with duloxetine and any other medications before starting treatment.

Key Takeaways

  • Common Cymbalta side effects can impact your digestive system, sleep patterns, appetite, and sexual functioning. There is also a risk of serious side effects that require medical attention.

  • If Cymbalta side effects persist longer than a few weeks, your provider can help you determine next steps, which may include a change in dosage, timing of dosage, or medication.

  • There are several ways to cope with Cymbalta side effects, including self care practices, medication adjustments, and therapy.

  • If you are considering Cymbalta or an alternative, a good place to start is with an evaluation from a medical provider. Many online psychiatry platforms offer online assessments and medication management, such as Talkiatry, or Circle Medical.

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Common Cymbalta Side Effects

Individuals taking Cymbalta may experience common side effects that impact their digestive system, sleep, appetite, and sexual functioning. Some may require medical attention but many often resolve on their own.

Common side effects of Cymbalta for adults may include:*1

  • Nausea
  • Dry mouth
  • Sleep changes (drowsiness, insomnia)
  • Constipation
  • Loss of appetite
  • Increased sweating
  • Sexual dysfunction

Common side effects of Cymbalta for children may include:*1

  • Nausea
  • Decreased weight
  • Dizziness

*All medications, including Cymbalta, can cause side effects that can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

Serious Cymbalta Side Effects

There is a risk for side effects to be severe or persistent. If these side effects appear, it is important to seek immediate medical attention.

Serious side effects of Cymbalta that require immediate medical attention include:*1

  • Suicidal thoughts or actions
  • Bruising or unusual bleeding
  • Symptoms of mania or hypomania
  • Heart palpitations
  • Blurred vision
  • Low blood pressure that can lead to dizziness and falls
  • Severe skin reactions such as Stevens Johnson Syndrome
  • Signs of liver damage (yellow skin or eyes, dark urine, upper abdominal pain)
  • Seizures or convulsions
  • Allergic reactions
  • Muscle rigidity, tremors, fever, and/or seizures (Could be a sign of serotonin syndrome)

*All medications, including Cymbalta, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

What Are the Risks & Warnings for Cymbalta?

Suicidal Ideation & Behaviors

Duloxetine, the active ingredient in Cymbalta, has a black box warning. These are the most serious types of warnings from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Duloxetine can increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children, adolescents, and young adults. Regardless of your age, you should talk with your doctor about serious risks with duloxetine and any other medications before starting treatment.

Triggering Manic Episodes

For some people with bipolar disorder, taking Cymbalta can increase the risk of triggering manic episodes. Prior to starting treatment with an antidepressant like Cymbalta, patients with depressive symptoms should be screened to determine if they are at risk for bipolar disorder.

Allergic Reactions

For some people taking Cymbalta, an allergic reaction may occur which may be dangerous.

Severe allergic reactions to Cymbalta can include:

  • Breathing problems
  • Swelling
  • Rash/hives

If you experience wheezing, difficulty breathing, or swelling in the throat, seek immediate medical help.

Serotonin Syndrome

Taking Cymbalta may increase the risk of a serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition resulting from high levels of serotonin in the body.

Symptoms of serotonin syndrome include:

  • Fever
  • Sweating
  • Confusion
  • Fast or irregular heartbeat
  • Severe muscle stiffness or twitching
  • Agitation, hallucinations
  • Loss of coordination
  • Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea

Seek immediate medical care if you experience these symptoms.

Heart-related Problems

For some people, taking Cymbalta may increase the risk of heart-related problems, such as a fast or irregular heart rate that may be fatal.

Pregnancy Risks

Cymbalta may increase some risks for newborns when taken by mothers in the last few months of pregnancy.

Breastfeeding Risks

Cymbalta is present in breast milk, which may carry some risk for a nursing newborn.

Glaucoma (Serious Eye Condition)

Cymbalta may cause angle-closure glaucoma, which can develop suddenly and lead to vision loss. If you have eye problems or a family history of glaucoma, your doctor may recommend an eye exam before taking Cymbalta.

Liver Damage

For some people, taking Cymbalta may cause liver damage.

Kidney Damage

For some people, taking Cymbalta may cause harm to the kidneys.

Abnormal Bleeding

Medications that affect serotonin activity, such as Cymbalta, can increase the risk of abnormal bleeding. Signs of abnormal bleeding can include bruising under the skin, a cut that does not stop bleeding, discolored stool, nose bleedings, or vomiting blood.

Urinary Problems

Cymbalta may cause problems with urine flow, such as urinary hesitation and urine retention.

Hyponatremia (Low Sodium in the Blood)

A rare but serious side effect, hyponatremia (low sodium levels in the blood), has been associated with the use of antidepressants such as Cymbalta. Low sodium levels in your blood may be serious and may cause death. Elderly people may be at greater risk for this.

Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome

People discontinuing Cymbalta abruptly may have symptoms of Cymbalta withdrawal, also called antidepressant discontinuation syndrome.

Here are common symptoms of Cymbalta withdrawal:

  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Fatigue
  • Anxiety
  • Shaking
  • Sweating
  • Agitation
  • Sleep problems
  • Seizures
  • Electric shock sensations

Always take your medication as instructed by your provider. Do not stop taking Cymbalta or adjust your dosage on your own.

Drug Interactions

Taking certain medications, herbs, or supplements alongside Cymbalta can change how Cymbalta works in your body or increase the risk for serious side effects. This article does not consider all the possible interactions.

Please let your doctor, psychiatrists, and pharmacists know about all the products you currently use, such as prescription medication, nonprescription drugs, and herbal supplements. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.

Substances you should avoid using while taking Cymbalta include:

  • Additional SNRI or SSRI medications
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
  • Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs)
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
  • Thioridazine (Mellaril)
  • Buspirone
  • Alcohol

This is not a comprehensive list of medications that interact with Cymbalta. Be sure to talk with your doctor or pharmacist about any prescription or over the counter medications you take, as well as supplements, herbs, and teas.

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*This is not a comprehensive list of all warnings and precautions for Cymbalta. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential warning and precautions of any medication.

Important Things to Know About Taking Cymbalta

Before starting Cymbalta, it’s important to understand what to expect during your first weeks of treatment. Your prescriber will discuss your dosage, how to take your medication, precautions for the medication, potential side effects you may experience, and what to do if side effects become a problem.

How Long Does It Take for Cymbalta to Work?

Cymbalta can take about 4-8 weeks to become fully effective, but some individuals may start to feel better after the first week or two. Each person may have a different response time based on how their body absorbs and processes the medication.

Can Cymbalta Worsen Symptoms at First?

Yes, some people starting Cymbalta may experience uncomfortable side effects such as increased sweating, fatigue, and nausea.1 Cymbalta can also increase the risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in some people. If you experience worsened symptoms or side effects of any kind, contact your provider immediately.

What Happens If I Miss a Dose?

If you forget to take your Cymbalta dose, take it as soon as you remember. If your next dose is due soon, skip the missed one and take your next scheduled dose. Never take two doses at once, and continue taking your medication as prescribed unless your prescriber directs you to do otherwise.1

Who Experiences Side Effects More?

Some patients may experience side effects from Cymbalta more than others. While predicting who will respond poorly is difficult, specific patient populations should be cautious with Cymbalta. Patients taking other SNRIs, SSRIs, or medications that increase serotonin in the brain should avoid Cymbalta due to the risk of serotonin syndrome.

Adolescent patients and their parents should be aware of the risk of increased suicidal ideation when starting Cymbalta. It is essential to discuss your health conditions with your physician to select the medication that is the most suitable for you.

Populations who are at an increased risk for experiencing side effects include those who are or have:1

  • Diabetes
  • Liver problems
  • Kidney problems
  • Suicidal ideations
  • A history of serotonin syndrome
  • A history of heart conditions
  • Low sodium levels in the blood
  • Delayed stomach emptying
  • A history of bleeding problems
  • Pregnant or breastfeeding
  • A history of bipolar disorder, symptoms of mania or hypomania
  • Prior allergic reactions to duloxetine
  • Prior vision issues such as glaucoma
  • A history of seizures

How to Cope With Common Cymbalta Side Effects

There are ways to cope with the most common Cymbalta side effects*. Many may go away on their own during the first few weeks. Contact your provider if side effects persist or worsen.

Digestive Symptoms

Taking Cymbalta can cause digestive side effects such as nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. To reduce these, follow meal timing recommendations for Cymbalta. Also, drink plenty of water, eat smaller, more frequent meals, and avoid spicy foods. You may also try ginger or peppermint teas, but talk with your healthcare provider before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicine or using supplements such as tea.

Increased Sweating

Many medications, including Cymbalta, can cause increased sweating. Wearing loose clothing and using topical antiperspirants can help. Your provider may also make an adjustment or change of medication if the sweating interferes with your daily life. Be aware that excessive sweating is a symptom of serotonin syndrome. This is a rare but potentially life-threatening complication with antidepressants that requires immediate medical care.1

Sleep Changes

Sleep changes such as drowsiness and insomnia may occur when taking Cymbalta. Stick to a regular sleep schedule, keep a sleep diary to track patterns, and get daily light exposure. Getting 30 minutes of exercise during the day can help your sleep quality, but avoid intense activity before bed. Your provider may also recommend taking your medication at a certain time of the day or using sleep aids.

Sexual Side Effects

Men taking Cymbalta may experience erectile dysfunction, decreased sex drive, and delayed ejaculation. Women may have problems with orgasms and decreased sex drive.1 These effects may go away after the first few weeks. Scheduling sexual activity before taking a dose may also reduce the risk or impact of sexual side effects. If these effects are bothersome or persistent, your provider may consider a change of dosage or medication.

*All medications, including Cymbalta, can cause side effects which can be mild or serious. This is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects. You should talk with your doctor about any questions you have and to understand the potential side effects and benefits of any medication.

More Ways to Manage Cymbalta Side Effects

Here are more ways to cope with and reduce the impact of Cymbalta side effects.

Practice Good Sleep Hygiene

Following good sleep hygiene practices can help you get better sleep while your body adjusts to the medication. Try to wake up and go to bed about the same time each day, and make sure your sleeping environment is relaxing and comfortable to you. If you experience drowsiness, avoid doing activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery.

Healthy Lifestyle Activities

Eating well, sleeping enough, and getting adequate exercise are all parts of a healthy lifestyle. These activities are important for all aspects of your physical and mental health and can help you endure the impact of side effects.

Follow a Daily Routine

Following your normal routine is important whether or not the medication is working yet. Doing your regular daily activities can keep life more predictable and reduce stress as you adjust to the medication. Also, be sure you are taking your medication as prescribed and at a consistent time each day.

Consider Therapy

Psychotherapy can support you by addressing the impact of side effects and helping you develop strategies to manage them. For in-person treatment, your primary care provider or insurance company can provide a referral, or you may get one from family or friends.

To find an online therapist, an online therapist directory is a great starting point. Many online psychiatry platforms, such as Talkiatry and Brightside Health, also offer therapy services.

Should I Stop Taking Cymbalta If I Start Feeling Side Effects?

Do not stop taking Cymbalta unless you have been advised to do so by your provider. Doing so can cause uncomfortable symptoms, including dizziness, fatigue, irritability, and nausea. For some people who have been taking antidepressants over a long course of time, abruptly stopping Cymbalta can lead to antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, also known as antidepressant withdrawal.

If you are experiencing side effects from your medication, tell your provider. They will help you determine the best course for continued treatment, which may include changing your dosage, the time for your dosage, or your medication. If your doctor determines discontinuing your medication is the best option, they will provide a plan for stopping your medication gradually, which can minimize your risk of developing withdrawal symptoms.

When Should I Call My Doctor About Cymbalta Side Effects?

Side effects are one of the most common reasons people choose to stop taking medication. While some effects can be managed and may fade away, some do not go away unless a person stops taking the medication. Side effects can occur even if you are taking your medication correctly.

Contact your provider as soon as possible if side effects persist or become hard to tolerate so you can consider other treatment options. While not common, some people taking Cymbalta may experience serious side effects. These effects often require immediate medical care and some may be life-threatening. If you notice any of the serious side effects listed above, seek medical care immediately.

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When Should I Seek an Alternative to Cymbalta Due to Side Effects?

Cymbalta’s initial side effects typically subside after a few weeks. If after some time you are looking to change your medication due to continued side effects, work with a doctor to find an alternative. There are many Cymbalta alternatives available. All classes of antidepressants can help reduce depression symptoms, though potential risks and benefits can vary.

Other SNRIs and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are usually the first antidepressants considered as Cymbalta alternatives because of their safety and effectiveness.

Atypical antidepressants work differently to improve symptoms and don’t fit into a formal category. Tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) and monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs) are older medications with more side effects. However, they may be helpful for those who need to avoid or can’t tolerate other types of antidepressants.

Cymbalta

Drug class: SNRI

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  • Common off-label uses: Stress urinary incontinence

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Drug class: SSRI

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How to Get a Prescription for Cymbalta or Alternative Medications

To get a prescription for Cymbalta or an alternative in person, start with an evaluation for your symptoms. Your primary care provider, who may be a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant, can help you get the process started. They may make a referral to a psychiatrist or specialist to determine if a prescription Cymbalta alternatives should be included in your treatment plan.

To get an online prescription for a Cymbalta alternative, you will also start by getting evaluated by an online psychiatric provider. We have thoroughly reviewed platforms like Talkiatry or Circle Medical that prescribe non-controlled substances such as antidepressants and some anti-anxiety medications.

Benzodiazepines are controlled substances that may be used to treat anxiety symptoms. To get prescribed benzodiazepines, you must do your evaluation with an online psychiatry provider that can and will prescribe controlled substances.

We have thoroughly evaluated online providers like Talkiatry that can and will prescribe benzodiazepines and found them each to be a good place to get started with an evaluation. If your provider feels a benzodiazepine is a good fit for your anxiety symptoms, they may offer you a benzodiazepine prescription online.

Questions to Ask Your Provider

It is important to discuss the potential side effects of Cymbalta with your doctor, psychiatrist, or therapist you may experience immediately after starting the treatment. Ask them whether these side effects will go away on their own or if any intervention is needed.

Also, many online psychiatry services are available with convenient access to mental health care for depression and anxiety problems. Individuals may even change prescribers and get a mental health evaluation, diagnosis, and personalized treatment plan.

Questions to ask your care team about Cymbalta side effects may include:

  • How long will it take for me to adjust to taking Cymbalta?
  • How quickly can Cymbalta cause side effects?
  • What are the first days of Cymbalta side effects like?
  • What is the best dosage to ensure fewer side effects, especially in the first week?
  • When should I reach out to you if I am experiencing side effects?
  • If I’m not able to tolerate the side effects, are there Cymbalta alternatives to consider?
  • How should I cope with side effects?
  • What to do if the side effects do not disappear after the first few weeks?
  • Can I skip or lower a dose to avoid the side effects?
  • Can I switch the drug if the side effects last longer or get worse?
  • What to do if I have serious side effects?

Prescriber’s Tips

Your prescriber will share important information about your Cymbalta prescription. They will explain how to take and store your medication, what to avoid when taking it, and what to do about side effects. Follow these tips for safe and effective use of Cymbalta.

  • Take your medication as prescribed, do not change your dose or stop taking it unless your prescriber tells you to. Keeping a consistent dosing schedule reduces the chance of unwanted side effects. When taking antidepressants, this approach can prevent withdrawal symptoms such as dizziness, brain zaps, and flu-like symptoms.1
  • Take your medication at the same time each day. Doing so can help you remember to take it, making it as effective as possible. Your healthcare provider can help determine the optimal timing based on your sleep patterns and initial medication response.
  • Tell your prescriber right away if you or your child have any worsening mental health symptoms. Antidepressants have a boxed warning for increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children under age 18 and young adults.
  • You should take your first dose while you are home and not needing to drive. Cymbalta has been known to cause drowsiness in some patients, and you should avoid driving after taking Cymbalta until you know how it affects you.1
  • Ask your doctor whether it is safe to drink alcohol while taking Cymbalta.
  • Tell your prescriber about all medications and supplements you take, including over-the-counter treatments. Many over-the-counter medications and supplements can interact with prescription medications. This is because they are processed by the same gut enzymes, cytochrome P450 (CYPs). These interactions can lead to unwanted side effects or reduce the effectiveness of your prescription medication.2
Diana Rangaves, PharmD, RPh Diana Rangaves, PharmD, RPh

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Cymbalta (Duloxetine) & What Is It Used to Treat?

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Cymbalta (duloxetine) is an antidepressant in the serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI) drug class. It is FDA-approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder and fibromyalgia in adults and children. Cymbalta is also FDA-approved to treat major depression, chronic musculoskeletal pain, and diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain in adults only.1

What Does Cymbalta Do?

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Cymbalta is a serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor affecting the levels of two chemical messengers in the body, serotonin and norepinephrine.1 Increased amounts of these two chemicals may help the communication between brain cells, potentially improving mood and other symptoms of depression and anxiety.

How Does Cymbalta Make You Feel During the First Week?

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During the first week of taking Cymbalta, the medication is building up in your body. This may trigger side effects for some people. It takes several weeks for Cymbalta to start working and you may not notice any difference in your symptoms yet.

Which Antidepressants Cause the Fewest Side Effects?

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SNRIs and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) are antidepressants that cause the fewest side effects. These are newer classes of antidepressants and are often preferred for their milder side effects.

Which Antidepressants Cause the Most Side Effects?

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Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), tetracyclic, and tricyclic antidepressants (TCAs) cause the most side effects. These are older classes of medication and are not first-line treatments for depression because they have more side effects than newer antidepressants.

Should I Stop Taking Cymbalta If I Experience Side Effects?

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Do not stop taking Cymbalta unless you have been advised to do so by your provider. Doing so can lead to antidepressant discontinuation syndrome, also known as antidepressant withdrawal. This can cause uncomfortable symptoms, including dizziness, fatigue, irritability, and nausea.

Sources Update History

ChoosingTherapy.com strives to provide our readers with mental health content that is accurate and actionable. We have high standards for what can be cited within our articles. Acceptable sources include government agencies, universities and colleges, scholarly journals, industry and professional associations, and other high-integrity sources of mental health journalism. Learn more by reviewing our full editorial policy.

  • Cymbalta – duloxetine hydrochloride capsule, delayed release. (November 6, 2024). DailyMed.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm

  • Scotton WJ, Hill LJ, Williams AC, Barnes NM. (2019, Sep 9). Serotonin Syndrome: Pathophysiology, Clinical Features, Management, and Potential Future Directions. International Journal of Tryptophan Research. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6734608/

  • Sansone, R. A., & Sansone, L. A. (2014). Serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors: a pharmacological comparison. Innovations in clinical neuroscience, 11(3-4), 37–42. Retrieved from https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24800132/

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We regularly update the articles on ChoosingTherapy.com to ensure we continue to reflect scientific consensus on the topics we cover, to incorporate new research into our articles, and to better answer our audience’s questions. When our content undergoes a significant revision, we summarize the changes that were made and the date on which they occurred. We also record the authors and medical reviewers who contributed to previous versions of the article. Read more about our editorial policies here.

March 6, 2025
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary updates: Added “Key Takeaways” feature. Edited for clarity. Condensed “What is Cymbalta (Duloxetine)?” and moved to FAQs. Removed “Rare Side Effects”, and “Side Effects of Cymbalta” introductory paragraph. Revised and moved “Allergic Reactions to Cymbalta” to “Warnings & Risks”. Replaced “Interactions With Cymbalta” and “Withdrawal Symptoms From Cymbalta” sections with new “Warnings & Risks” feature. Revised “Who Experiences Side Effects More?” Added new “Important Things to Know About Taking Cymbalta” section. Condensed “Side Effects in Women” and “Side Effects in Children” sections and moved info to “Warnings & Risks” feature. Added new sections/features “How to Cope With Common Cymbalta Side Effects”, “More Ways to Manage Cymbalta Side Effects”, “Should I Stop Taking Cymbalta If I Start Feeling Side Effects?”, “When Should I Seek an Alternative to Cymbalta Due to Side Effects?”, “How to Get a Prescription for Cymbalta or Alternative Medications” and all included subsections. Retitled “Questions to Ask Your Health Team” to “Questions to Ask Your Provider”. Replaced “Final Thoughts” with “Prescriber’s Tips” feature. Removed “For Further Reading”, Added FAQs.
Original publish date: January 13, 2023
Author: Diana Rangaves, PharmD, RPh
Medical Reviewer: Dena Westphalen, PharmD
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