Cymbalta (Duloxetine): What Gwinnett County Patients Should Know

If you've been diagnosed with anxiety or depression, Cymbalta (duloxetine) may be part of your treatment conversation. As an SNRI antidepressant, it's FDA-approved for both conditions and offers some unique benefits. Here's what our Lilburn patients often want to know.

How Cymbalta Works

Cymbalta is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). It works by keeping both serotonin and norepinephrine active in your brain longer, helping regulate mood, energy, and alertness. This dual-action approach can be particularly effective for patients who haven't responded well to SSRIs alone.

Conditions Cymbalta Treats

• Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)
• Major depressive disorder (MDD)
• Fibromyalgia
• Chronic musculoskeletal pain
• Diabetic peripheral neuropathy
• Off-label: Panic disorder, social anxiety

Timeline for Results

Most patients begin noticing effects within 2-4 weeks, with full benefits often appearing by 4-6 weeks. For nerve pain, it may take longer. Consistency is crucial—don't stop taking Cymbalta without your doctor's guidance, as this can cause withdrawal symptoms.

Potential Side Effects

Most side effects are mild and temporary:

• Nausea (usually improves quickly)
• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Dizziness
• Decreased appetite
• Sweating