“Depression hurts.  Cymbalta can help.” This was the slogan used to market Cymbalta in the television commercials and advertisements that were hard to miss over the last several years. While some may have experienced benefits from using the drug, there have also been reports of harmful Cymbalta side effects from those taking the antidepressant and those trying to discontinue its use.

What is Cymbalta Used For?

Cymbalta (duloxetine) is a pharmaceutical initially approved in 2004 for treating peripheral neuropathy, a condition of nerve pain common in those with diabetes. A few years later, in 2007, Cymbalta was approved as a treatment for anxiety and major depressive disorder. In 2008, it was approved for treatment of fibromyalgia, and in 2010 it was approved to help with musculoskeletal pain associated with arthritis and back pain.  

What Are Cymbalta Side Effects?

With its approval to treat so many conditions, and promise to alleviate symptoms associated with both physical and emotional issues, Cymbalta appears to have far-reaching applications. However, the list of Cymbalta side effects is also far-reaching and includes many bodily systems. Common side effects include:

• Blood pressure problems
• Dizziness, fatigue, sleepiness
• Dry mouth
• Headache
• Insomnia, anxiety, tremor
• Nausea, stomach pain, constipation, diarrhea, decreased appetite, vomiting
• Pneumonia
• Sexual dysfunction, lowered libido, erection difficulties, lack of orgasm
• Sweating, hot flashes

What Happens When You Stop Taking Cymbalta?

Cymbalta may be discontinued after successful treatment of a condition; in other cases, some individuals may have an adverse reaction to the drug based on individual chemistry. However, when individuals began abruptly discontinuing Cymbalta, a whole new set of symptoms appeared known generally as Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome and more specifically Cymbalta Withdrawal Syndrome or Cymbalta Discontinuation Syndrome.  While this does not happen to everyone who stops using Cymbalta, it has been reported to affect up to half of individuals who have used the drug.

What Does Cymbalta Withdrawal Syndrome Look Like?

Cymbalta Withdrawal Syndrome can be terrifying to those who do not know to anticipate it. One of the most odd and concerning symptoms is known as “brain zaps,” a condition where a burst of electricity seems to be providing a jolt to the brain. Other symptoms include:

• Anxiety
• Dizziness
• Fainting or lightheadedness
• Fatigue, lack of energy
• Headaches
• Hostility or irritability
• Tremors or nerve sensations/tingling
• Visual disturbances

Typically, Cymbalta Withdrawal Syndrome and its symptoms resolve after about two to three weeks. There have been reports of a shorter duration, but there have also been reports where residual withdrawal symptoms have lasted for several months. For help with Cymbalta withdrawal symptoms, contact your physician.

Cymbalta Withdrawal Lawsuit Information

Cymbalta Withdrawal Syndrome has been the subject of both individual and class action lawsuits. Consumers have felt that the manufacturer, Eli Lilly, has not done enough to provide clear enough warnings based on the frequency and severity of symptoms experienced by those who discontinue Cymbalta use.If you or a loved one has experienced personal injury due to the discontinuation of Cymbalta, you may have a legal claim. An experienced attorney can provide a no-obligation consultation to confidentially provide you with more information.