*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.
To get a prescription for Cymbalta online, the first step is an online psychiatry provider for an evaluation. For in-person options, your primary care physician may be able to refer you to a prescriber who can evaluate you and prescribe Cymbalta.
If you’re looking for access to an online prescription for Cymbalta, we have thoroughly reviewed platforms like Brightside Health, Talkiatry, or Circle Medical. These platforms can and will prescribe antidepressants like Cymbalta, and we have found them each to be a good place to get started with an evaluation. If your provider believes Cymbalta may be a good fit for your anxiety or depression symptoms, they may prescribe you Cymbalta online.
Boxed Warning: Duloxetine (Cymbalta) – Risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in certain people
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
To get prescribed Cymbalta online, start by getting an evaluation from an online provider who can prescribe antidepressants, such as Brightside Health, Talkiatry, and Circle Medical.
Cymbalta alternatives may be necessary for some to consider, including other antidepressant medications.
Brand name Cymbalta can cost between $259-$285 for a 30-day supply of the smallest dosage available without insurance. Cymbalta coupons, savings cards, and discounts may all help lower costs.
Online Psychiatry and Medication Management Covered by Insurance Talkiatry can match you with a real psychiatrist who takes your insurance and is seeing new patients. They’re in-network with major insurers and offer medication management. Get started with a short online assessment
How to Get Cymbalta Online or In Person
To get prescribed Cymbalta online or in person, you will first need an evaluation to determine whether it is a good fit for your depression symptoms. The process of getting a diagnosis and potentially prescribed Cymbalta online or in person may vary for people of different ages.
It is important to find an online provider who can prescribe antidepressants like Cymbalta. For in-person prescription options, a good place to start is with your primary care provider.
How to Get a Cymbalta Prescription Online
Here is how to get Cymbalta prescribed to you online in six steps.
Step 1: Book an Appointment With an Online Psychiatry Provider
The first step is to book an appointment with an online provider that can prescribe antidepressant medications like Cymbalta, such as Brightside Health, Talkiatry, and Circle Medical. We have thoroughly reviewed these platforms, and in using the services ourselves, we have found them each to be a good place to get started with an evaluation.
Step 2: Get a Psychiatric Evaluation & Discuss Your Symptoms
Your provider will evaluate your overall health history, your mental health symptoms, and any treatments you may have tried in the past. They may also speak with others you interact with regularly, such as family members. This is important because you may show symptoms differently in various settings. This discussion will help the provider know whether Cymbalta may be safe and appropriate for you.
Step 3: Get Treatment Recommendations
Your provider will develop a treatment plan to help improve your symptoms and quality of life. They may recommend behavioral therapy or medication such as Cymbalta, or possibly both. If Cymbalta looks like it could help you, your provider will discuss the risks, benefits, and how to take the medication.
Step 4: Fill Your Online Cymbalta Prescription
If offered, your prescriber will give you a prescription, which you may fill through their online platform. You may be able to get Cymbalta medication delivered to your home, but it can vary widely depending on the state you live in. All online psychiatric platforms will deliver prescriptions to a local pharmacy.
Step 5: Schedule Follow-up Appointments
If prescribed Cymbalta, your doctor will recommend regular follow-up appointments to monitor your symptoms and potential side effects, adjusting your medication as needed.
Step 6 : Discuss Prescription Refills With Your Provider
Talk to your prescriber about how frequently you may refill your Cymbalta medication. This timeframe may depend on how well you respond to the medication, if you experience side effects, or if you may need to consider another medication. It may also depend on how the platform manages medication delivery, such as offering 90-day supplies.
How to Get a Cymbalta Prescription In Person
In six steps, here is how to get Cymbalta prescribed to you in person.
Step 1: Book an Appointment With a Psychiatric Provider
A good place to start for an in-person psychiatric evaluation is with your primary care provider. This may be a physician, nurse practitioner, or physician assistant. If they determine it is needed, they can refer you or your child to a specialist, such as a psychiatrist. They can further evaluate whether to include Cymbalta as a part of the treatment plan for you.
Step 2: Get an Evaluation & Discuss Your Symptoms
Your provider will evaluate your overall health history, your mental health symptoms, and any treatments you may have tried in the past. They may also speak with others you interact with regularly, such as family members. This is important because you may show symptoms differently in various settings. This discussion will help the provider know whether Cymbalta may be safe and appropriate for you.
Step 3: Get Treatment Recommendations
Your provider will develop a treatment plan to help improve your symptoms and quality of life. They may recommend behavioral therapy or medication such as Cymbalta, or possibly both. If Cymbalta looks like it could help you, your provider will discuss the risks, benefits, and how to take the medication.
Step 4: Choose Where to Get Your Cymbalta Prescription Filled
If offered, your prescriber will give you a prescription that you may fill at your preferred local pharmacy or an online platform. You may be able to get Cymbalta delivered to your home, but it can vary widely depending on the state you live in. All online psychiatry platforms will deliver prescriptions to a local pharmacy.
Step 5: Schedule Follow-up Appointments
If prescribed Cymbalta, your doctor will recommend regular follow-up appointments to monitor your symptoms and potential side effects, adjusting your medication as needed.
Step 6: Discuss Prescription Refills With Your Provider
Talk to your prescriber about how frequently you may refill your Cymbalta medication. This timeframe may depend on how well you respond to the medication, if you experience side effects, or if you may need to consider another medication.
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How Much Does Cymbalta Cost?
The cost of Cymbalta can vary based on several factors, including your location, the pharmacy you use, and whether you have insurance, as well as on the dosage and length of prescription (number of days) your doctor prescribes.
Cymbalta Prices
The cost of Cymbalta currently ranges from $259-$285 for a 30-day supply of 20 milligrams without insurance. Your Cymbalta prescription may cost much less with insurance depending on your plan and coverage. A similar prescription of the generic form of Cymbalta, duloxetine, costs $12-$56. The cost of Cymbalta will also vary based on the dosage and amount prescribed. Coupons for Cymbalta are often available and may reduce your out-of-pocket costs.
Note: Cash prices listed are derived from multiple sources. The prices listed are an estimate only and cannot be guaranteed. For exact prices, please contact the pharmacy.
Walmart
$275
Walgreens
$272
CVS / Target
$277
RiteAid
$259
Kroger
$259
Costco
$285
Hy-Vee
$270
Publix
$277
Albertsons
$262
Does Insurance Cover Cymbalta?
Depending on the company, your insurance plan may cover your Cymbalta prescription. Insurance policies can change coverage at any time and some may only cover generic medication. Commercial insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE all have different requirements and policies for medication coverage. Contact your insurance provider directly to learn whether your prescription may be covered.
Here are online psychiatric platforms that accept insurance:
- Circle Medical takes insurance and offers same-day or next-day appointments for non-emergency mental health needs.
- Brightside Health accepts many major insurance plans, offering online medication management at affordable prices across most of the United States.
- Talkiatry is only available to those with insurance, but it makes using insurance for online psychiatry services simple.
Who Is Cymbalta a Good Fit For?
Getting an evaluation from a medical provider is the first step to understanding if a prescription for Cymbalta may be helpful. Cymbalta is thought to work by affecting the levels of two chemicals in the brain, serotonin and norepinephrine. Changes in these levels may improve symptoms of depression and anxiety for some people. Cymbalta is an FDA-approved treatment for depression in adults and generalized anxiety disorder for adults and children ages 7 and older.1
Here are some who may benefit from a Cymbalta prescription:
- Adults with depression (FDA-approved treatment)2
- Adults with generalized anxiety disorder (FDA-approved treatment)2
- Children and teens with generalized anxiety disorder (FDA-approved treatment)2
- Those with stress incontinence (non-FDA-approved treatment)
Who Should Not Take Cymbalta?
While Cymbalta is a helpful medication for depression for some, it may not be right for everyone. Cymbalta is a safe and effective treatment for depression and anxiety, but there are exceptions to consider.
People who should take extra caution before using Cymbalta include:1
- Children and teenagers
- Those age 65 and older
- Pregnant and breastfeeding parents
- Those with other mental health conditions
- Those with certain medical conditions
Not all possible reactions may occur, and this is not a complete list of potential risks of taking Cymbalta. Discuss with your doctor to see if Cymbalta is right for you.
Cymbalta Alternatives
Many Cymbalta alternatives are available. All types of antidepressants can help reduce depression symptoms, though the potential risks and benefits can vary. Brightside Health, Talkiatry, and Circle Medical are reliable online psychiatric providers that offer Cymbalta alternatives.
SSRI & SNRI Antidepressant Medications
SSRIs and SNRIs are considered the safest and most effective antidepressants available. Cymbalta alternatives include other serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) such Pristiq and Effexor. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) include Prozac, Zoloft, and Lexapro.
Other Antidepressant Medications
Having Cymbalta alternatives is important for those who can’t use SNRIs. Atypical antidepressants, which include Wellbutrin and Remeron, don’t fit into a formal category and work in unique ways to improve symptoms.
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.
Generic Cymbalta
Generic Cymbalta may be used as an alternative to the brand name medication for several reasons. It contains duloxetine, the same active ingredient and treatment benefits as brand-name Cymbalta. The generic version is also less expensive.
Over-the-Counter Cymbalta Options
There are currently no FDA-approved over-the-counter (OTC) treatments for depression. Many OTC and dietary supplements claim to relieve depression. However, quality studies are limited and have yet to show whether such supplements improve depression symptoms.
Also, these supplements are not regulated for safety like medications are. Some supplements can interact with other medications you may be taking. Check with reputable sources and your healthcare providers before taking any supplements.
Online Psychiatry and Medication Management Covered by Insurance Talkiatry can match you with a real psychiatrist who takes your insurance and is seeing new patients. They’re in-network with major insurers and offer medication management. Get started with a short online assessment
Questions to Ask Your Provider
If you think getting a Cymbalta prescription may be helpful for treating your condition, one place to start is by talking to your primary healthcare provider. They are familiar with your health history and may prescribe medication for your condition, if needed. Cymbalta is most often used as a treatment for depression and anxiety.
And if your provider thinks you’d be better served by a specialist, such as a psychiatrist, they may make a referral. Alternatively, if you do not have a primary healthcare provider, an online psychiatry provider is a good place to start.
Take some time to prepare for your first appointment. Consider what your main symptoms are, how they affect your life, and what good symptom relief would look like. Write down your treatment goals, as well as your interest and concerns about using medications.
Questions to ask your care team about how to get Cymbalta include:
- What are the best online psychiatry options?
- Are there Cymbalta alternatives?
- Can I switch medications if Cymbalta does not work for me?
- Is it safe to use over-the-counter medications while taking Cymbalta?
- How long will Cymbalta’s side effects last?
- What happens if I mix Cymbalta with another substance?
- How do Cymbalta vs Effexor compare for depression and anxiety treatment?
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 Cymbalta as prescribed, do not change your dose or stop taking it unless your prescriber tells you to. Stopping abruptly or taking too much can be harmful.
- Take your medication at the same time each day. Doing so can help you remember to take it, making it as effective as possible.
- Swallow Cymbalta whole. Do not chew or crush Cymbalta.
- Cymbalta can cause drowsiness and may affect your decision making. Do not do dangerous activities such as driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how Cymbalta affects you. Do not drink alcohol while using Cymbalta.
- Tell your prescriber right away if you or your child have any worsening mental health symptoms. Cymbalta has a boxed warning for increased risk of suicidal thoughts and behaviors in children under age 18 and young adults.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is Cymbalta?
Cymbalta (duloxetine) is prescribed to treat symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions. It is a type of antidepressant known as a serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI).
How Does Cymbalta Work?
Cymbalta is thought to work by affecting the activity of two chemicals in the brain, serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. These changes may improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety for some people.3
Can You Get Cymbalta Prescription Refills Online?
Yes, online psychiatry platforms such as Talkiatry and some online primary care platforms, such as Circle Medical, can prescribe antidepressants like Cymbalta and provide refills.
Can You Get Cymbalta Without Therapy?
Yes, Cymbalta can be used without therapy.
Can I Get Cymbalta Delivered to My Home?
You may be able to get Cymbalta medication delivered to your home, but may vary depending on the state you live in. All online psychiatry platforms will deliver prescriptions to a local pharmacy.
Can You Get Cymbalta From a Walk-in Clinic?
An urgent care clinic cannot prescribe Cymbalta, other antidepressants, or anti-anxiety medications. These providers are not able to monitor and follow up with patients long-term for treatments like these. If you have a prescription already, contact your primary provider or local pharmacy for help. If you do not have a prescription, you will need a full psychiatric evaluation first. Providers at an urgent care or walk-in clinic are not able to provide this type of evaluation.4
How Much Does Cymbalta (Duloxetine) Cost Without Insurance?
The cash cost of brand name Cymbalta can range from $259-$285 for a 30-day supply of the smallest dosage available (20 mg).
How Can I Get Cymbalta Prescribed Without Insurance?
Online psychiatry platforms such as Brightside Health and Circle Medical can provide psychiatric evaluations and, if needed, may offer a Cymbalta prescription. Both platforms accept cash pay if you don’t have insurance. Available services may also vary based on a person’s age, state, and other factors.
Why Is Cymbalta Expensive?
Brand name medications like Cymbalta undergo costly research for safety and effectiveness under the patent. Generics have the same active ingredient. They don’t require the same level of testing to sell it, making it a less expensive option.
Can You Buy Cymbalta (Duloxetine) Over the Counter?
No, Cymbalta is only available with a prescription.
Is There a Generic Version of Cymbalta?
Yes, a generic version of Cymbalta is available and contains the active ingredient duloxetine.
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.
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DailyMed – CYMBALTA – duloxetine hydrochloride capsule, delayed release. (August 18, 2023). DailyMed.com.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/drugInfo.cfm
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American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA.
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Duloxetine – StatPearls. (May 29, 2023). NCBI.nlm.nih.gov. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549806/
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Spencer, Aiden. (May 19, 2016). What Type of Medication Can an Urgent Care Doctor Prescribe? AJMC.com. Retrieved from https://www.ajmc.com/view/what-type-of-medication-can-an-urgent-care-doctor-prescribe
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.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Updated cost information in the “Key takeaway section” and “Cymbalta Prices”, and FAQ “How Much Does Cymbalta (Duloxetine) Cost Without Insurance?” sections.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Updated cost information in the “Key takeaway section” and “Cymbalta Prices”, and FAQ “How Much Does Cymbalta (Duloxetine) Cost Without Insurance?” sections.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Added Key Takeaways feature. Updated formatting, edited for clarity. Consolidated sections called “Do I Need a Cymbalta Prescription?” and “What Can I Expect When Getting a Cymbalta Prescription?”, retitled as “Who Is Cymbalta a Good Fit For?”; Revised and retitled sections titled “How to Get Prescribed Cymbalta Online & In Person”, “Questions to Ask Your Provider”, “Cymbalta Alternatives” with additional subsections “SSRI & SNRI Antidepressant Medications”, “Other Antidepressant Medications”, “Generic Cymbalta”, and “Over-the-Counter Cymbalta Options”. Created additional FAQs, updated sources as needed.
Author: No Change
Reviewer: No Change
Primary Changes: Updated cost information in “Cymbalta Prices” section.
Author: No Change
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Primary Changes: Updated cost information in “Cymbalta Prices” section.
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Primary Changes: Updated formatting and added new article content including drug overview summary block, cost table, and alternatives comparison slider. Also updated “Questions to Ask Your Provider” and “Prescriber Tips” page features.
Author: (No Change)
Medical Reviewer: (No Change)
Primary Changes: Added new sections titled “How Much Does Cymbalta Cost?”, “What Can I Expect When Getting a Cymbalta Prescription?”, “Prescriber’s Tips”, “FAQs”, “Does Insurance Cover Cymbalta?”. Revised sections titled “Do I Need a Cymbalta Prescription?”, “How to Get Cymbalta Prescribed Online & In Person”, “What Are Cymbalta Alternatives?”, “Are There Over-the-Counter Cymbalta Options?”, “Questions to Ask Your Health Team About How to Get Cymbalta”. Reviewed and added relevant sources. Edited for readability and clarity.
Author: Diana Rangaves, PharmD, RPh
Reviewer: Dena Westphalen, PharmD
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Online Anxiety Test A few questions from Talkiatry can help you understand your symptoms and give you a recommendation for what to do next. Best Online Psychiatry Services Online psychiatry, sometimes called telepsychiatry, platforms offer medication management by phone, video, or secure messaging for a variety of mental health conditions. In some cases, online psychiatry may be more affordable than seeing an in-person provider. Mental health treatment has expanded to include many online psychiatry and therapy services. With so many choices, it can feel overwhelming to find the one that is right for you.
