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Duloxetine – Generic Cymbalta®

Introduction

This section covers the benefits and risks of duloxetine (generic Cymbalta®). If you are prescribed this medication, please review this section carefully, along with reviewing the manufacturer pamphlet(s) that accompany the medication. The manufacturer pamphlet(s) contain complete information on drug interactions, risks and side effects, and other important information that you should understand before starting treatment.

Background

Duloxetine (generic Cymbalta®) is an antidepressant which is effective for severe back pain. In most cases, duloxetine courses will have a ramp-up period at the beginning during which you build up your dosage, and a taper down period whenever you decide to stop the medication during which you gradually reduce your dosage rather than stopping all at once. Follow your doctor's ramp-up and tapering instructions if you are prescribed this medication and let them know of any questions.

How Do I Store And/Or Dispose of This Drug?

Store at room temperature in a dry place. Do not store in a bathroom. Keep all drugs in a safe place, out of the reach of pets and children. Throw out any unused or expired drugs, but do not flush down a toilet or pour down a drain unless instructed to do so.

What Do I Do If I Miss a Dose?

Take a missed dose as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume taking drugs on the right schedule. Do not take extra doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

Cautions

Tell all of your healthcare providers, including your doctors, nurses, dentists, and pharmacists, that you take this drug. Be sure to tell your healthcare providers if you have any of the below conditions before taking this drug:

You may have an allergic reaction to the medication(s) included in this treatment plan if you are allergic to similar substances. If you have allergies to any of the below substances, please do not take the medication(s) and notify us immediately.

We have reviewed the health information you previously provided to us, but it’s critical for our ability to treat you for us to have an up-to-date understanding of your use of other medications, supplements, and your diet. If you take or begin taking any of the following items or you take any of the similar medications listed below, please discuss with us prior to taking the medication(s) included in your treatment plan so that we can help you gauge the risks of any interactions and assess whether it would be appropriate to modify your treatment plan.

If you become pregnant or are breastfeeding, please stop treatment and notify us immediately or talk to a doctor in-person.

Emergency Side Effects

Although uncommon, the medication(s) included in this treatment plan may result in dangerous and potentially life-threatening side effects. If you encounter any of the emergency side effects listed on the manufacturer pamphlet(s) or any of the side effects listed below, please cease taking the medication(s) and dial 911 or seek immediate in-person emergency medical assistance.

Other Side Effects

All medications may cause side effects, though some people may not encounter side effects or may only encounter mild side effects. Call your doctor or get medical help if any of the following side effects or any other side effects bother you or do not go away:

Overdose

If you believe you may have overdosed, call your poison control center or seek emergency in-person medical care right away. Be prepared to share what was taken, when, and in what amount.

Additional Information

If your health condition or symptoms fail to improve or worsen, please call your doctor. Do not take other people’s drugs and do not share your drugs with others. Keep a list of all your healthcare treatments (prescription and OTC medications, vitamins, supplements, alternative therapy regimens) and provide this list to your doctor. Talk with your healthcare provider before starting any new treatment. If you have a medical emergency at any point, please immediately contact 911 or seek emergency in-person medical care.