Ratings & Reviews

Cymbalta is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor that is manufactured by Eli Lilly.  It was first approved by the FDA for treatment of depression and diabetic neuropathy in 2004.  In 2007, Cymbalta was approved for use in the treatment of general anxiety disorder.  The drug was approved for the treatment of musculoskeletal pain and chronic lower back pain in 2010.  Cymbalta is also prescribed to treat major depressive disorder, stress urinary incontinence and fibromyalgia.

The main side effects associated with Cymbalta include nausea, somnolence, insomnia, dry-mouth, headache and dizziness.  Other side effects include vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, heartburn, decreased appetite, difficulty urinating, night sweats, muscle cramps, uncontrollable shaking, unusual bruising or bleeding, stomach pain, confusion, fever, and hives.

Like all antidepressants, Cymbalta package inserts must include a black box warning stating that antidepressants may increase the risk of suicide in people younger than 25.  In 2005, the FDA issued a warning stating that the use of Cymbalta could result in hepatitis, jaundice and other liver related disorders.  The FDA warned healthcare providers that Cymbalta should not be used in patients with chronic liver disease.