My mom has long struggled with anxiety and depression. Had been on Lexapro for years. A few years ago switched to Cymbalta because of benefits of pain relief. Now suspect it is causing problems with low sodium levels and low blood pressure. Will not be the one with her on her next doctor's appointment. Has anyone had to switch from Cymbalta at a very old age (92). If so, what was experience?
Duloxetine (Cymbalta) can cause low blood pressure and low blood sodium levels. These can put you at higher risk for falls and dizziness. This tends to happen within the first week of treatment, but can occur at any time, particularly after the dose is raised.
Can duloxetine cause low blood sodium?
Hyponatremia is a known adverse effect of duloxetine, and it can lead to potentially life-threatening complications. Administration of thiazide diuretics also has been the cause of hyponatremia.
Which drug is best to avoid in combination with duloxetine?
It's not recommended to combine duloxetine with other antidepressants. Other common antidepressants include: Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like paroxetine (Paxil, Brisdelle) and fluoxetine (Prozac) Other SNRIs like venlafaxine (Effexor XR)
Why is Cymbalta so hard to get off of?
Unfortunately, drugs like duloxetine can cause physical dependence at very high rates. One particular study from 2005 noted that nearly 44% of participants experienced withdrawal symptoms. This is because the brain becomes used to the drug's ability to increase the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine present.
READ THIS: https://www.drugs.com/compare/cymbalta
Gena / Touch Matters
Withdrawal is always a problem with these drugs, even when others are introduced in their stead, and sometimes ESPECIALLY when others are introduced. You need the MD assurance here, not ours. Sure do wish you the best in this.