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Cymbalta cause weight gain. Cymbalta and Weight Changes: Understanding the Impact on Adults and Children

Does Cymbalta cause weight gain or loss. How much weight change can occur with Cymbalta. What factors contribute to weight changes in Cymbalta users. How does Cymbalta affect weight in children. Can lifestyle changes help manage Cymbalta-related weight changes.

The Complex Relationship Between Cymbalta and Weight

Cymbalta (duloxetine) is a widely prescribed antidepressant that belongs to the class of medications known as serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). While its primary use is to treat depression, anxiety, and certain types of chronic pain, many patients and healthcare providers are concerned about its potential effects on body weight. Understanding the nuanced relationship between Cymbalta and weight changes is crucial for patients considering or currently taking this medication.

Short-Term Effects: Weight Loss More Common Than Gain

Contrary to popular belief, Cymbalta is more likely to cause weight loss than weight gain during the initial stages of treatment. Studies have shown that in the first 8 to 9 weeks of acute treatment in adults, patients experienced a mean decrease in weight of 0.5 kg (1.1 lb). This is in contrast to those receiving a placebo, who saw an average increase of 0.2 kg (0.44 lb).

Why does this weight loss occur? There are several potential factors:

  • Decreased appetite (anorexia) was reported in over 7% of patients
  • Nausea, a common side effect, affected 23% of users
  • Abdominal pain was experienced by 5% of patients

These gastrointestinal side effects can contribute to reduced food intake and subsequent weight loss in the early stages of treatment.

Long-Term Effects: Modest Weight Gain Possible

While short-term use of Cymbalta is associated with weight loss, longer-term studies have shown the potential for modest weight gain. After 34 weeks (8.5 months) of treatment, patients taking 60 mg twice a day experienced an average weight gain of 0.9 kg (1.5 lb). This is compared to a gain of only 0.1 kg (0.2 lbs) in the placebo group.

In a 52-week, open-label study, patients receiving 40 to 60 mg of Cymbalta twice a day had a significant mean weight gain of 1.1 kg (2.4 lb) by the end of the study period. It’s important to note that this weight gain is generally considered modest and may be influenced by various factors, including dosage and individual patient characteristics.

Dose-Related Weight Gain

Evidence suggests that higher doses of Cymbalta may be associated with a greater likelihood of weight gain. In the 34-week studies mentioned earlier, a weight gain greater than 7% of baseline weight occurred in:

  • 8.6% of patients taking Cymbalta 40 mg twice a day
  • 12.8% of those taking Cymbalta 60 mg twice a day
  • 5.7% of patients in the placebo group

These results indicate a potential dose-related effect on weight gain, with higher doses more likely to result in significant weight increases.

Cymbalta’s Impact on Weight in Children

The effects of Cymbalta on weight in children differ from those observed in adults. In studies involving children aged 7 to 17 years, weight loss was one of the most common side effects, occurring in ≥5% of participants and at twice the rate of those on placebo.

How significant is the weight loss in children taking Cymbalta? In three 10-week studies for depression and anxiety:

  • 14% of children taking Cymbalta experienced a ≥3.5% weight loss
  • Only 6% of children on placebo showed similar weight loss

This weight loss in children may be attributed to various gastrointestinal side effects, including:

  • Decreased appetite (10% vs. 5% on placebo)
  • Nausea (18% vs. 8% on placebo)
  • Vomiting (9% vs. 4% on placebo)
  • Diarrhea (6% vs. 3% on placebo)

It’s worth noting that in uncontrolled studies extended up to 6 months, children taking Cymbalta tended to return to a normal weight on average when compared to their peers. This suggests that the weight loss effects may be temporary in many cases.

Managing Weight Changes While Taking Cymbalta

For patients concerned about potential weight changes while taking Cymbalta, there are several strategies that can be employed to manage this side effect:

  1. Regular monitoring: Keep track of your weight and discuss any significant changes with your healthcare provider.
  2. Dietary modifications: If experiencing weight loss due to decreased appetite or nausea, try eating smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day.
  3. Exercise: Engaging in regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and may also have positive effects on mood and overall well-being.
  4. Timing of medication: Taking Cymbalta with food may help reduce nausea and improve tolerability.
  5. Gradual dose adjustments: Your doctor may start you on a lower dose and gradually increase it to help minimize side effects, including those that might affect weight.

Is it possible to prevent weight gain while taking Cymbalta? While complete prevention may not be possible for all patients, maintaining a balanced diet and regular exercise routine can help mitigate potential weight gain. It’s important to remember that any lifestyle changes should be discussed with your healthcare provider to ensure they are safe and appropriate for your individual situation.

Exploring the Mechanisms Behind Cymbalta-Related Weight Changes

Understanding the underlying mechanisms that contribute to weight changes in Cymbalta users can provide valuable insights for both patients and healthcare providers. While the exact processes are not fully understood, several theories have been proposed:

Serotonin and Norepinephrine Modulation

Cymbalta works by increasing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain. These neurotransmitters play crucial roles in mood regulation, but they also influence appetite and metabolism. The initial weight loss observed in some patients may be due to the appetite-suppressing effects of increased serotonin levels. However, as the body adjusts to the medication over time, these effects may diminish, potentially leading to weight gain in some individuals.

Changes in Energy Expenditure

Some researchers suggest that long-term use of antidepressants like Cymbalta may alter energy expenditure and metabolism. This could potentially contribute to gradual weight gain over time, even without significant changes in appetite or food intake.

Improvement in Depressive Symptoms

As Cymbalta effectively treats depression, some patients may experience an improvement in appetite that was previously suppressed due to their mental health condition. This return to normal eating patterns could result in weight gain, especially if the depression had caused significant weight loss prior to treatment.

Comparing Cymbalta’s Weight Effects to Other Antidepressants

How does Cymbalta compare to other antidepressants in terms of weight-related side effects? While individual responses can vary greatly, some general trends have been observed:

  • SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors): Medications like fluoxetine (Prozac) and sertraline (Zoloft) are generally associated with initial weight loss followed by potential weight gain over long-term use.
  • Other SNRIs: Venlafaxine (Effexor) and desvenlafaxine (Pristiq) have shown similar patterns to Cymbalta, with potential for both weight loss and gain depending on the individual and duration of use.
  • Bupropion (Wellbutrin): This antidepressant is often associated with weight loss and is sometimes used as an alternative for patients concerned about weight gain.
  • Mirtazapine (Remeron): Known for potentially causing significant weight gain, particularly in the early stages of treatment.

It’s important to note that these comparisons are general trends, and individual responses can vary significantly. The choice of antidepressant should be based on a comprehensive evaluation of a patient’s medical history, symptoms, and personal preferences, in consultation with a healthcare provider.

Long-Term Considerations for Cymbalta Users

For patients who are prescribed Cymbalta for chronic conditions such as major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, or fibromyalgia, long-term use of the medication may be necessary. In these cases, it’s crucial to consider the potential long-term effects on weight and overall health:

Metabolic Changes

Some studies suggest that long-term use of antidepressants, including Cymbalta, may be associated with metabolic changes that could affect weight and other health parameters. Regular monitoring of metabolic markers, such as blood glucose and lipid levels, may be recommended for patients on long-term Cymbalta therapy.

Adherence to Treatment

Weight changes, whether gain or loss, can impact a patient’s willingness to continue with their prescribed treatment. Open communication between patients and healthcare providers is essential to address any concerns and make necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.

Quality of Life Considerations

While weight changes can be a concern, it’s important to balance these effects against the overall benefits of Cymbalta in managing depression, anxiety, or chronic pain. For many patients, the improvement in their primary symptoms may outweigh modest weight changes.

Are there strategies to maintain long-term weight stability while on Cymbalta? While individual responses vary, some approaches that may help include:

  • Regular physical activity and exercise
  • Mindful eating practices
  • Periodic reassessment of medication dosage with a healthcare provider
  • Consideration of adjunct treatments or lifestyle modifications to support weight management

By taking a proactive approach to weight management and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers, many patients can successfully balance the benefits of Cymbalta with potential weight-related side effects.

Special Considerations for Pediatric Cymbalta Use

The use of Cymbalta in children and adolescents requires special attention, particularly given the observed tendency towards weight loss in this population. Healthcare providers must carefully weigh the potential benefits of the medication against the risks, including those related to growth and development.

Growth Monitoring

For children and adolescents taking Cymbalta, regular monitoring of height and weight is crucial. This allows for early detection of any significant deviations from expected growth patterns.

Nutritional Support

In cases where weight loss is observed, nutritional counseling and support may be necessary to ensure adequate intake of calories and essential nutrients. This is particularly important during critical periods of growth and development.

Alternative Treatment Options

For pediatric patients experiencing significant weight loss or other intolerable side effects, healthcare providers may consider alternative treatment options or adjunct therapies to manage the underlying condition while minimizing adverse effects on growth and development.

How can parents and caregivers support children taking Cymbalta? Some strategies include:

  • Maintaining a food diary to track intake and identify any changes in eating patterns
  • Encouraging regular, balanced meals and healthy snacks
  • Communicating openly with the child’s healthcare provider about any observed changes in weight, appetite, or eating behaviors
  • Considering the involvement of a pediatric nutritionist if significant weight loss occurs

By closely monitoring and addressing potential weight-related issues, healthcare providers and caregivers can help ensure that pediatric patients receive the full benefits of Cymbalta treatment while minimizing potential risks to their growth and development.

Does Cymbalta cause weight gain?

Medically reviewed by Leigh Ann Anderson, PharmD. Last updated on Jan 17, 2022.

Overview

Cymbalta is more likely to cause weight loss than weight gain early in the first 8 to 9 weeks of treatment. A modest weight gain may occur after 8 months of treatment. In general, weight loss is minimal and may be due to temporary nausea or loss of appetite, some of the most common side effects of Cymbalta treatment.

Weight loss or weight gain was reported by at least 1% (1 out of 100) of adult patients in clinical trials conducted by the manufacturer. In children treated with Cymbalta, weight loss can be common, most likely due to gastrointestinal (stomach) side effects like decreased appetite, nausea and vomiting.

How much weight gain occurs with Cymbalta?

Significant weight gain with Cymbalta has been reported in some, but not all, longer-term studies.

  • After 34 weeks (8.5 months) of treatment, no significant weight change was seen in patients taking 40 mg twice a day of Cymbalta (0. 7 kg) compared to a placebo (0.1 kg).
  • In contrast, in those taking Cymbalta 60 mg twice a day a weight gain of 0.9 kg (1.5 lb) was reported compared to a gain of only 0.1 kg (0.2 lbs) in the placebo group. Weight gain was suggested, but not proven, to be linked with higher doses.
  • In a 52-week, open-label study, Cymbalta-treated patients receiving 40 to 60 mg twice a day had a significant mean weight gain of 1.1 kg (2.4 lb) at the end of the study.

In the 34-week studies, a weight gain greater than 7% of the baseline weight (at the start of the study) occurred in 8.6% of patients taking Cymbalta 40 mg twice a day (186 patients), and in 12.8% of those taking Cymbalta 60 mg twice day (195 patients), compared to 5.7% weight gain with placebo (192 patients). Results with the higher dose of Cymbalta were statistically significant vs. placebo and suggest a dose-related effect.

How can I stop weight gain with Cymbalta?

Overall, weight gain for most people taking Cymbalta is modest. For many people taking antidepressants this weight gain is gradual and can be addressed by lifestyle changes with a modified diet and exercise.

In theory, appetite may improve when depression, anxiety or pain is treated, which may lead to weight gain in some patients. Appetite and weight changes are also common symptoms of depression itself.

Does Cymbalta cause weight loss?

Decreased or loss of appetite (anorexia) was reported in over 7% of patients (vs. 2% on placebo) in several studies and may contribute to weight loss during early treatment. In these pooled studies, no association was found between higher doses of Cymbalta and weight loss. Nausea (23%), decreased appetite (7%) and abdominal pain (5%) were also reported as common side effects in studies submitted to the FDA.

  • Cymbalta (duloxetine) was shown to be more likely to cause a weight loss than a weight gain in pooled studies over the first 8 to 9 weeks of acute treatment in adults.
  • Patients treated with Cymbalta had a mean decrease in weight of 0. 5 kg (1.1 lb) compared to an increase of 0.2 kg (0.44 lb) for patients receiving placebo, a statistically significant effect.

Other serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like Cymbalta are also reported to cause gastrointestinal side effects like decreased appetite, loss of appetite and nausea.

If Cymbalta causes nausea, you can try taking your dose with a small meal which may make the medicine more tolerable. Your doctor will probably start your treatment at a lower dose and gradually increase it to help limit this side effect. If you experience vomiting with Cymbalta, contact your healthcare provider.

Does Cymbalta cause weight loss in children?

In Cymbalta studies, weight loss was one of the most common side effects (≥5% and twice that of placebo) in children 7 to 17 years.

  • In children 7 to 17 years of age receiving Cymbalta in three 10-week studies for depression and anxiety, a ≥3.5% weight loss was reported in 14% of children taking Cymbalta compared to 6% of those on placebo (an inactive treatment).
  • Decreased weight (14%), decreased appetite (10%), nausea (18%), vomiting (9%), and diarrhea (6%) were reported as common gastrointestinal side effects, occurring in at least 5% of children in this age group.
  • In children, Cymbalta is approved to treat generalized anxiety disorder and fibromyalgia, but not depression.

Weight loss may be related to side effects such as nausea (18% vs. 8% placebo), abdominal pain (13% vs. 10% placebo), vomiting (9% vs. 4% placebo), diarrhea (6% vs. 3% placebo) and decreased appetite (10% Cymbalta vs. 5% placebo) in children. Taking the medicine with food may help to lessen nausea.

In a review of uncontrolled studies extended up to 6 months, children taking Cymbalta tended to return to a normal weight on average when compared to peers. Regular monitoring of weight and growth should be performed for children treated with Cymbalta.

Cymbalta is approved by the FDA to treat:

  • major depressive disorder (MDD) in adults
  • generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) in adults and pediatric patients 7 years of age and older
  • diabetic peripheral neuropathic pain (DPNP) in adults
  • fibromyalgia (FM) in adults and pediatric patients 13 years of age and older
  • chronic musculoskeletal pain in adults

Why does Cymbalta cause weight changes?

Studies show that serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) like Cymbalta are frequently associated with weight loss due to gastrointestinal (stomach) side effects like decreased appetite and nausea. Nausea (23%), decreased appetite (7%) and abdominal pain (5%) occur frequently.

Antidepressants may cause weight gain by interfering with neurotransmitters in the brain like serotonin or histamine that help control appetite. Blocking histamine may boost appetite and also lead to weight gain. Some antidepressants may cause sedation and fatigue that lower levels of activity and exercise which may result in weight gain. However, Cymbalta is more likely to cause insomnia than drowsiness.

Decreased appetite and weight loss have been observed in association with the use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) in general.

Some antidepressants, like paroxetine (Paxil), fluvoxamine (Luvox) or mirtazapine (Remeron) can lead to significant weight gain.

Other antidepressants, such as sertraline (Zoloft), fluoxetine (Prozac), or bupropion (Wellbutrin XL) are more weight-neutral. Venlafaxine (Effexor) and duloxetine (Cymbalta) are SNRIs that also have more limited effects on weight gain.

Tricyclic antidepressants, an older class of medicines used to treat depression, are well-known to be associated with weight gain.

Related: Cymbalta Side Effects (in more detail)

Medications found in the serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) class include:

  • desvenlafaxine (Pristiq)
  • duloxetine (Cymbalta, Drizalma Sprinkle, Irenka)
  • levomilnacipran (Fetzima)
  • milnacipran (Savella)
  • venlafaxine (Effexor, Effexor XR)

Significant weight loss or weight gain with any antidepressant treatment should be evaluated by your doctor. Your medicine, dose or schedule may need to be changed. Your doctor can choose among many alternatives in the antidepressant drug class if weight gain, weight loss or stomach side effects like nausea are a concern for you.

References

  • Hudson JI, Wohlreich MM, Kajdasz DK, et al. Safety and tolerability of duloxetine in the treatment of major depressive disorder: analysis of pooled data from eight placebo-controlled clinical trials. Hum Psychopharmacol. 2005 Jul;20(5):327-41. doi: 10.1002/hup.696
  • Goldstein DJ. Duloxetine in the treatment of major depressive disorder. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. 2007;3(2):193-209. doi:10.2147/nedt.2007.3.2.193
  • Wise TN, Perahia DG, Pangallo BA, et al. Effects of the antidepressant duloxetine on body weight: analyses of 10 clinical studies. Prim Care Companion J Clin Psychiatry. 2006;8(5):269-278. doi:10.4088/pcc.v08n0503
  • Nelson C, et al. Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs): Pharmacology, administration, and side effects. Up to Date. Revised Oct. 2, 2020. Accessed Jan. 17, 2022 at https://www.uptodate.com/contents/serotonin-norepinephrine-reuptake-inhibitors-snris-pharmacology-administration-and-side-effects
  • Cymbalta (duloxetine) prescribing information. Revised Sept. 2021. Eli Lilly and Co. Indianapolis, IN. Accessed Jan. 17, 2022 at https://pi.lilly.com/us/cymbalta-pi.pdf

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Medical Disclaimer

Does Cymbalta (duloxetine) cause weight gain or weight loss?

Taking Cymbalta can potentially cause changes in a person’s body weight. Cymbalta is the brand name of an antidepressant medication called duloxetine.

Doctors prescribe Cymbalta to treat depression, anxiety, and some chronic pain disorders, such as fibromyalgia and diabetic neuropathy.

Cymbalta is a type of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), a class of antidepressants that can increase levels of serotonin and norepinephrine in the brain.

Increasing these feel-good chemicals may reduce depression symptoms and pain sensations.

Some people who take Cymbalta report changes in their weight. This article examines the link between Cymbalta and weight gain or weight loss.

Most related research suggests that Cymbalta can affect a person’s weight, but only modestly.

A 2015 systematic review concluded that Cymbalta might cause a small amount of weight loss in the first few weeks, followed by modest weight gain. However, the quality of the evidence was not high enough to draw any definite conclusions. Cymbalta did not appear more likely to cause weight gain than other similar drugs, namely fluoxetine (Prozac) and paroxetine (Paxil).

It is possible to gain or lose weight while taking other antidepressant drugs. Antidepressants that may lead to weight gain in some people include:

  • Some tricyclic antidepressants. Examples of tricyclic antidepressants include amitriptyline (Elavil), imipramine (Tofranil), and doxepin (Silenor). For example, the results of a 2015 meta-analysis of 54 different medications suggest that amitriptyline causes weight gain in some people.
  • Some selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Some research suggests that these antidepressants may cause weight loss in the short term but weight gain in the longer term.
  • Mirtazapine. Experts have found evidence linking the atypical antidepressant mirtazapine to weight gain.

According to a systematic review, the atypical antidepressant bupropion (Wellbutrin) may cause weight loss in some people.

However, medications impact people in different ways. What causes weight gain in one person may not affect the body weight of another.

According to a 2014 study on the effects of taking antidepressants long term, even when people gain weight from taking these medications, it is usually only a modest amount.

It is worth remembering that antidepressants may not be directly responsible for weight gain. Individuals may be gaining weight for other reasons, such as:

  • an increase in appetite due to an improved mood
  • the natural weight gain that results from aging
  • overeating, limited exercise, or both due to depression or anxiety

Learn more about how antidepressants can cause weight gain.

In addition to weight changes, Cymbalta can cause the following side effects in some people:

  • nausea
  • headache
  • dry mouth
  • fatigue
  • insomnia
  • dizziness
  • sleepiness
  • appetite loss
  • constipation
  • diarrhea
  • excessive sweating

More serious side effects, which may require medical attention, include:

  • palpitations
  • blurred vision
  • abdominal pain
  • vomiting
  • weight and appetite loss
  • tremor
  • anxiety and agitation
  • insomnia or strange dreams
  • sexual dysfunction or low libido
  • excessive yawning
  • hot flashes
  • fainting

In some cases, the following severe adverse effects can occur. These need immediate medical attention:

  • suicidal thoughts or behaviors in children, teens, and young adults
  • liver damage
  • mania in people with undiagnosed bipolar disorder
  • fluid retention and low sodium levels due to a disruption of antidiuretic hormone secretion
  • kidney damage

Mania is a risk for people with bipolar disorder, including those who do not yet have a diagnosis or who received a diagnosis of depression without a previous manic episode.

Symptoms of mania include:

  • talking a lot or pressured speech
  • feeling “high” or “wired”
  • feeling irritable, exuberant, or both
  • reduced need to sleep
  • racing thoughts
  • difficulty focusing

Serotonin syndrome is a life threatening condition that can result from high serotonin levels. It can occur when a person takes Cymbalta with other serotonergic drugs.

Learn more about serotonin here.

Cymbalta may also cause worsening depression, suicidal thoughts, or suicidal behaviors, especially in younger adults. The risk is highest when beginning treatment or changing the dosage.

Suicide prevention

If you know someone at immediate risk of self-harm, suicide, or hurting another person:

  • Ask the tough question: “Are you considering suicide?”
  • Listen to the person without judgment.
  • Call 911 or the local emergency number, or text TALK to 741741 to communicate with a trained crisis counselor.
  • Stay with the person until professional help arrives.
  • Try to remove any weapons, medications, or other potentially harmful objects.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, a prevention hotline can help. The 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is available 24 hours a day at 988. During a crisis, people who are hard of hearing can use their preferred relay service or dial 711 then 988.

Click here for more links and local resources.

Was this helpful?

Suddenly stopping taking Cymbalta can cause withdrawal symptoms. It is important to speak to a doctor before stopping the medication.

Withdrawal symptoms can include:

  • irritability
  • nausea, vomiting, or both
  • dizziness
  • nightmares
  • headache
  • prickling or tingling in the skin

Learn more about antidepressant withdrawal here.

Individuals who are taking Cymbalta and experience side effects, including weight changes, should speak with their doctor.

If a person asks about weight changes, the doctor may:

  • recommend tests to see if an underlying condition is causing the changes
  • suggest changing the dose or trying a different drug
  • recommend lifestyle changes, such as exercise and dietary measures to help manage weight

There are many antidepressants that a doctor may suggest as an alternative to Cymbalta. These include:

  • Other SNRIs: Examples are venlafaxine (Effexor), levomilnacipran (Fetzima), or desvenlafaxine (Pristiq), which increase the activity of serotonin and noradrenaline in the brain.
  • SSRIs: Citalopram (Celexa), escitalopram (Lexapro), fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil), and sertraline (Zoloft) aim to boost mood by increasing serotonin action in the brain.
  • Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs): MAOIs are older types of antidepressants and include isocarboxazid (Marplan) and phenelzine (Nardil).
  • Tricyclic antidepressants: These are older drugs that doctors do not regularly prescribe due to potential side effects. They include amitriptyline (Elavil) and doxepin (Silenor), which can help a person sleep.
  • Other types: Examples include bupropion (Wellbutrin) and mirtazapine (Remeron).

What do you need to know about anxiety medications?

Here are some questions people often ask about Cymbalta and weight changes.

Is Cymbalta good for weight loss?

Cymbalta (duloxetine) is a drug that doctors prescribe for mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Some people initially lose a small amount of weight, but taking Cymbalta long term may lead to a modest weight gain. A 2015 meta-analysis concluded that duloxetine affects body weight.

What are the side effects of Cymbalta?

Common side effects of Cymbalta include headache, nausea, dry mouth, nausea, fatigue, drowsiness, dizziness, constipation, and diarrhea. There may also be a loss in appetite and weight.

Research has suggested that taking duloxetine may lead to modest weight loss at first, followed by modest weight gain. But, it does not consider the changes significant enough to outweigh the drug’s benefits if a doctor recommends taking it.

However, some people may notice weight changes due to an individual reaction, changes in lifestyle habits, or an underlying condition. Talking through any concerns with a doctor can help a person understand any possible changes in weight or other side effects.

The doctor may recommend doing tests for another condition or prescribe a different drug. They may also encourage the person to exercise more and adapt their diet to include more nutritious foods.

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Contents

  • Cymbalta’s relationship to weight
  • Other side effects of Cymbalta
  • Talk to your doctor
  • 9 0021

    What is Cymbalta?

    Cymbalta is the brand name for duloxetine. It belongs to a class of drugs called serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). SNRIs work by changing the balance of the chemical messengers serotonin and norepinephrine in your brain. This may result in improved mood or pain relief.

    Cymbalta is most commonly prescribed to treat depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and pain caused by diabetes-related nerve damage to the arms and legs. It is also prescribed to treat chronic musculoskeletal pain and fibromyalgia, a chronic pain disorder.

    Cymbalta’s relationship to weight

    Many people report that their weight changes after they start taking an SNRI such as Cymbalta. This may be true. However, the study does not support that SNRIs are the cause.

    According to Cymbalta’s prescribing information, people who took the drug had a higher rate of decreased appetite than people who took placebo. In addition, the results of a study published in Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Treatment also indicated that SNRIs such as Cymbalta tend to cause decreased appetite and weight loss.

    In analyzes of 10 studies that examined changes in body weight when taking Cymbalta, the authors found that most people experienced weight loss after taking an antidepressant. However, the study also showed that people who take the drug for a long time may experience weight gain.

    What is true for one person on antidepressants may not be true for you. However, the odds are in your favor. According to the 2014 JAMA Psychiatry Study, the weight gain that occurs in people taking antidepressants is usually gradual and mild. Lifestyle changes can help negate any weight gain that may occur while taking the medication.

    Other side effects of Cymbalta

    Although more evidence may be needed to determine the effect of Cymbalta on weight, there are some side effects that are known for certain. The most common side effects of Cymbalta include:

    • fatigue
    • dry mouth
    • nausea
    • constipation
    • diarrhea
    • dizziness
    • Difficulty swallowing
    • 900 15 decreased vision or blurred vision

    • loss of appetite
    • excessive sweating

    You may experience withdrawal symptoms if you stop taking the medicine. These symptoms may include:

    • insomnia
    • restlessness
    • nausea
    • nervousness and irritability
    • seizures
    • excessive sweating

    Talk to your doctor

    Although evidence suggests that Cymbalta may affect your weight, it is not clear exactly how this happens. If your doctor prescribes Cymbalta for you and you are concerned about your weight change, talk to him. Ask about lifestyle changes you could make to combat this potential side effect.

    Your doctor may suggest that you become more physically active to prevent or reduce weight gain. On the other hand, your doctor may recommend extra calories if you find yourself losing weight, but your doctor thinks you shouldn’t. A new meal plan can help fight reduced appetite and prevent unintentional weight loss.

    Read more: Cymbalta use, side effects, interactions and warnings »

    Health

    Does Cymbalta cause weight gain? – The health of your body

    od Hugo

    content

    What is Cymbalta?

    Cymbalta is the brand name for duloxetine. It belongs to a class of drugs called serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). SNRIs work by changing the balance of the chemical messengers serotonin and norepinephrine in your brain. This may result in improved mood or pain relief.

    Cymbalta is most commonly prescribed to treat depression, generalized anxiety disorder, and pain caused by diabetes-related nerve damage in the arms and legs. It is also prescribed for the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal pain and fibromyalgia, a chronic pain disorder.

    Cymbalta’s relationship to weight

    Many people report that their weight changes after they start taking SNRIs like Cymbalta. This may be true. However, Research does not support that SNRIs are the cause.

    According to the prescribing information for Cymbalta, people who took the drug did experience a decrease in appetite more often than people who took placebo. In addition, the results of a study published in Neuropsychiatric Diseases and Treatment also indicated that SNRIs such as Cymbalta generally cause decreased appetite and weight loss.

    In an analysis of 10 studies examining changes in symbalt and body weight, the authors found that most people lost weight after taking antidepressants. However, the study also showed that people who take the drug for a long time may experience weight gain.

    What applies to one person taking antidepressants may not be true for you. However, the odds are in your favor. According to the 2014 JAMA Psychiatry Study, the weight gain that occurs in people taking antidepressants is usually gradual and mild. Lifestyle changes can help negate any weight gain that may occur while on medication.

    Other side effects of Cymbalta

    Although more evidence will be needed to decide on the effect of Cymbalta on weight, there are some side effects that are definitely known. The most common side effects of Cymbalta include:

    • humor
    • dry mouth
    • nausea
    • closure
    • diarrhea
    • dizziness
    • difficulty swallowing
    • 900 15 decreased vision or blurring

    • loss of appetite
    • excessive sweating

    withdrawal symptoms may occur.