In the first trial of its kind earlier this month, Eli Lilly, makers of the antidepressant Cymbalta, were cleared of claims made against the company.

Plaintiff Claudia H. alleged that her discontinuation of the drug caused serious and life-threatening withdrawal symptoms including electric shock sensations, anxiety, dizziness, insomnia and suicidal thoughts.

The plaintiff’s lawyer argued that Eli Lilly did not disclose that 44 percent of users in studies they conducted led to side effects upon discontinuation of the drug. The warning label initially reported that 2 percent or more users experienced negative effects from the withdrawal of the drug.

Lilly’s lawyer responded to the argument that 22 percent of placebo users reported Cymbalta discontinuation side effects, and the label said that Cymbalta side effects did occur significantly more frequently than in placebo participants.

An expert witness testified on behalf of Eli Lilly, psychiatrist Douglas Jacobs, and explained to the jury that symptoms of discontinuation of an antidepressant were not known to last for months when studied in medical literature. Jacobs told the jury that the residual symptoms after discontinuing Cymbalta were likely manifestations of Claudia’s previously diagnosed depression and anxiety disorders.

Three additional trials are set to be held throughout August. Plaintiffs in other pending Cymbalta discontinuation lawsuits and Eli Lilly will be anxiously awaiting the verdicts in the upcoming trials. It is estimated that 250 additional Cymbalta withdrawal lawsuits have been filed against Eli Lilly.

What is Cymbalta Used For?

Cymbalta (duloxetine) is an antidepressant that is classified as an SNRI or Serotonin Norepinepherine Reuptake Inhibitor. It works by blocking the reuptake (absorption) of two key neurotransmitters, serotonin and norepinepherine in the brain, allowing them to remain active in higher quantities, thus helping to balance brain chemistry.

While it is mostly used as a treatment for depression, Cymbalta is also used for the treatment of anxiety, diabetic nerve pain, fibromyalgia and longstanding bone or muscle pain.

Cymbalta Side Effects

Users who take Cymbalta may experience common side effects while using the medication. Some of the most common side effects include:

• Constipation
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Dry mouth
• Increased sweating
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea

Cymbalta carries an FDA “Black Box” warning on the label, a designation that the drug carries serious risks or potential side effects with its use. There is an increased risk of suicide among Cymbalta users. Patients are urged to call their doctor if any of the following occur as a preventative measure:

• Abnormal excitement
• Acting without thinking
• Extreme worry
• Irritability
• Panic attacks
• Restlessness
• Symptoms of aggression
• Thoughts of suicide

Cymbalta Withdrawal Side Effects

In addition to the common side effects individuals may experience while taking the medication, Cymbalta Discontinuation Syndrome is a set of more severe symptoms that can occur while one discontinues or tapers off of the drug. Doctors have known about a condition for psychiatric medication called Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome as a consequence of antidepressant withdrawal, and sometimes this condition is underestimated by physicians and patients alike. Some study have shown up to 80 percent of people experience such symptoms to varying degrees.

Symptoms of Cymbalta Discontinuation Syndrome include:

• Dizziness
• Electric shock sensations known as “brain zaps”
• Headache
• Lethargy
• Mood swings, anxiety, agitation or low mood
• Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
• Numb or tingling skin
• Problems with muscle coordination (ataxia)
• Sweating
• Tremor
• Trouble sleeping, nightmares, or vivid dreams
• Vertigo

While most Cymbalta withdrawal symptoms subside after several days to weeks, though some individuals have reported concerning symptoms lasting months.

Some people taking Cymbalta have had such a difficult time transitioning off of the drug that they have had to go back on it to try to very gradually reduce their dosage in hopes of avoiding some of the troubling withdrawal symptoms.

Cymbalta Withdrawal Lawsuit Information

If you or a loved one has experienced severe side effects from Cymbalta use or from discontinuation of the drug, you may have a legal claim. Attorneys can assist you by providing a complimentary and confidential case evaluation.