Understanding Duloxetine (Cymbalta)

Precautions

Patients need to take precautions with this medication. For instance, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take it! This medication has negative effects on babies. Patients must also be aware that this medication causes suicidal thoughts in some individuals who take it. Children and adolescents are the most at risk for this side effect!

Doctors need to monitor their patients closely when they prescribe this medication. They will keep track of their mood and similar reactions in the first four months. Doctors also need to screen for bipolar disorder before they prescribe this medication to any of their patients. This is important because it triggers rapid-cycling and manic episodes in these individuals. Avoiding alcohol and cigarettes when taking this medication is vital! Both of these cause interactions. Smoking, for example, makes this medication a fair amount less effective.

Get the full details on the medication interactions next.