Fibromyalgia and Cymbalta

Fibromyalgia is a chronic illness that causes widespread pain and fatigue among a multitude of other symptoms.  Fibromyalgia is complex illness that needs a combination of treatments to control it and that’s where Cymbalta comes into play.  Cymbalta is one of the few medications that have been FDA approved for the treatment of Fibromyalgia.  Cymbalta doesn’t work on everyone, but it has been proven to provide relief of Fibromyalgia symptoms in many individuals. 

Cymbalta is in a class of medications known as Selective Serotonin and Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor or SSNRI’s.  It is an antidepressant that was approved by the FDA in June of 2008 for the treatment of Fibromyalgia.  It was approved earlier by the FDA for the treatment of depression, Generalized Anxiety Disorder and Diabetic nerve pain.

Cymbalta is not a narcotic, but it is considered a controlled substance in most areas of the world where it is marketed.  The effects of Cymbalta can usually be felt within two weeks.

Cymbalta side-effects are constipation, appetite changes, diarrhea, dizziness, sleepness, dry mouth, fatigue, headache, insomnia, nausea, sexual difficulties, sweating, tremor, urinary difficulties, vomiting, weakness and cold hands and feet.

More severe side-effects of Cymbalta include heart palpitations, increased anxiety levels and elevated thoughts of suicide.  These side-effects should be reported to your doctor immediately.

Cymbalta is believed to work by calming down the pain signals by increasing substances called serotonin and norepinephrine.  Cymbalta also has the ability to approve the patients mood.

If you think Cymbalta might help you, talk to your doctor about it.  It may not be for everyone, but for some with Fibromyalgia it may very well be life-changing.  Everything about Fibromyalgia is difficult, so if Cymbalta can provide a little relief then it will provide tons of hope.