How long does it take for Cymbalta to work?
It may take up to 6 to 8 weeks for the full effects of Cymbalta to be seen, although some improvement in symptoms, such as sleep, energy, or appetite may show an improvement in 1-2 weeks. Symptoms such as depressed mood and lack of interest in activities may take the full 6-8 weeks to resolve. When Cymbalta is used for pain, it generally improves within two weeks.
Side effects such as include feeling sick, a dry mouth, headache, constipation, or feeling sleepy may occur early on, but these are usually mild and go away after a couple of weeks.
References
- Duloxetine 31 January 2022. https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/duloxetine/
- Duloxetine (Cymbalta). NAMI. https://www.nami.org/About-Mental-Illness/Treatments/Mental-Health-Medications/Types-of-Medication/Duloxetine-(Cymbalta)
- Cymbalta (duloxetine) Updated 09/2021. Eli Lilly and Company. https://www.drugs.com/pro/cymbalta.html#s147
Read next
8 Cymbalta Side Effects: Should I be Concerned?
Cymbalta is used to treat depression, anxiety, and some pain syndromes. But what are the risks associated with this drug? Do most people who start it realize how hard it may be to stop? Continue reading
What helps with Cymbalta withdrawal symptoms?
Slowly stopping Cymbalta treatment over 2 to 4 weeks is the best way to help avoid withdrawal symptoms like dizziness, nausea or headache. Talk with your doctor first if you want to stop treatment. Continue reading
How to sleep while taking Cymbalta?
Not being able to sleep (also called insomnia) is one of the most common side effects reported by people taking Cymbalta. In some people, this side effect improves after a couple of weeks of taking Cymbalta, but difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep can persist in others. Here are some ways you can improve sleep while taking Cymbalta:
- Take your dose of Cymbalta in the morning. Cymbalta may be given once a day or twice a day but for those people experiencing insomnia, it should be taken just once a day in the morning
- Swallow Cymbalta capsules whole; do not crush, chew, or open up the capsules and sprinkle them on food because this may cause Cymbalta to be absorbed more quickly than intended, increasing the risk of side effects such as insomnia...
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