Duloxetine/Cymbalta

[WS1234]

Hi All,

I've been working with a painclinic, a psychologist who specializes in chronic pain, and a pelvic PT. Collectively, they recommended adding Duloxetine / Cymbalta (30 mg) to the mix. I've heard mixed things about this drug but I figure its worth a try. I've tried Elavil in the past with limited success (no negative side effects really). If anyone has any feedback specific to this drug, please share.

[IrishLondon]

Hey there. Sorry I'm afraid I don't know anything about these drugs. But it sounds like you have a great team around you who are helping you. Are you based in the US? I'm on my second time round on this...the last big flare up was 5 years ago and the UK hasn't moved on much in terms of CPPS since then.

[webslave]

Because there are relatively few people using the forum at any one time (people get better and move on!), you are best off using the search function extensively

[IrishLondon]

Yes I was going to say webslave. There aren't that many people around...which can only be a good sign!

[WS1234]

Ok thanks guys. Irish, I am in Ontario, Canada. I've done my best to surround myself with the best people possible but I must say its been a very hard few months for me physically and mentally.

[WS1234]

Quick update on this - I have been on Cymbalta for roughly 2 months. I've ramped up to 60mg. Its definitely had an impact on my mood in a positive way, but hasn't done much for the pain. Side effects have been minimal (decreased appetite, and my libido was decreased at the beginning, but has come raging back). I am now considering transitioning over to Effexor.

[webslave]

Yes, cymbalta is a good antidepressant. Many antidepressants are on the list of bad anticholinergic drugs, rated by effect on the aging brain. Lots of research linking these drugs to cognitive decline.

See ANTICHOLINERGIC COGNITIVE BURDEN SCALE

Cymbalta is not on that list

[HCR123]

My psychiatrist just gave me a prescription for Cymbalta. She didn't like Elavil for me because of the side effects
Just read about the ones you mentioned webslave. Not sure if there's anything negative about Cymbalta? She said that for pain related issues she liked Cymbalta. Meanwhile my therapist doesn't like it because it's hard to get off of it. I mean everyone has a different opinion on these meds. It's crazy.

[WS1234]

I was on Cymbalta for a few months this year. Nothing negative to report, but nothing positive either when it comes to the pain. Was no problem getting off of it - I tapered off over a month with no issues.

[HCR123]

Thanks WS! Appreciate it.
I don't think it's going to help based on a genetic test I did earlier for meds my liver can process. Cymbalta was on the red list lol
Worth a shot even if it's just to keep my mood up. Biggest thing for me is starting a mindfulness course in January and incorporating that. Hoping that helps my anxiety and stress long term. I know the job is a big stressor.

[WS1234]

yup mindfulness helps. Just make sure you are patient cause its a slow process and takes lots of practice.

[HCR123]

So only been taking two days and feel dizzy and a bit of pressure in head. Assume those are early side effects while getting on it. I'm only taking 30mg. It doesn't say whether it's best to take during day or evening. Any recommendations? Taking .25mg klonopin just to calm down a bit.

[webslave]

I would titrate up. IOW, start with ½ or ¼ the dose and slowly work up

[HCR123]

I wish I could. It's a capsule with powder. I'll ask my doc if she can get me half the dosage.

[webslave]

Yeah Cymbalta is enteric coated, so you'll have to get a lower dose cap, if poss.