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

Does Cymbalta cause weight gain or loss. How much weight change can occur with Cymbalta use. What are the differences in weight effects between adults and children taking Cymbalta. How can weight changes from Cymbalta be managed.

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The Impact of Cymbalta on Weight: Initial Effects vs. Long-Term Use

Cymbalta (duloxetine) is a widely prescribed antidepressant that belongs to the class of serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). While its primary purpose is to treat depression, anxiety, and certain pain conditions, many patients and healthcare providers are concerned about its potential effects on body weight. Understanding these effects is crucial for managing expectations and ensuring optimal treatment outcomes.

In the short term, Cymbalta is more likely to cause weight loss than weight gain. During the first 8 to 9 weeks of treatment, patients may experience a modest decrease in weight. This initial weight loss is often attributed to the medication’s side effects, such as nausea and loss of appetite, which are among the most common reactions to Cymbalta.

However, the picture changes when we look at long-term use. After approximately 8 months of treatment, some patients may begin to experience a slight weight gain. It’s important to note that this weight gain is generally modest and may not occur in all patients.

Quantifying Weight Changes: What the Studies Show

Clinical trials have provided valuable insights into the extent of weight changes associated with Cymbalta use. Here’s what the data reveals:

  • In short-term studies (8-9 weeks), Cymbalta-treated patients experienced a mean weight loss of 0.5 kg (1.1 lb), compared to a slight weight gain of 0.2 kg (0.44 lb) in the placebo group.
  • After 34 weeks of treatment, patients taking 40 mg of Cymbalta twice daily showed no significant weight change (0.7 kg gain) compared to placebo (0.1 kg gain).
  • Those taking 60 mg twice daily experienced a weight gain of 0.9 kg (1.5 lb) compared to 0.1 kg (0.2 lbs) in the placebo group after 34 weeks.
  • In a 52-week open-label study, patients on 40-60 mg of Cymbalta twice daily had a mean weight gain of 1.1 kg (2.4 lb).

These findings suggest that while weight gain can occur with long-term Cymbalta use, it is generally modest and may be dose-dependent.

Cymbalta’s Weight Effects in Children: A Different Story

The impact of Cymbalta on weight in children differs significantly from its effects in adults. In pediatric patients aged 7 to 17 years, weight loss is one of the most common side effects, occurring in at least 5% of children and at twice the rate seen with placebo.

Key findings from pediatric studies include:

  • 14% of children taking Cymbalta experienced a ≥3.5% weight loss, compared to 6% in the placebo group.
  • Common gastrointestinal side effects in children include decreased weight (14%), decreased appetite (10%), nausea (18%), vomiting (9%), and diarrhea (6%).

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

Managing Weight Changes: Strategies for Cymbalta Users

For those concerned about potential weight changes while taking Cymbalta, there are several strategies that can help manage this side effect:

  1. Monitor weight regularly and discuss significant changes with your healthcare provider.
  2. Maintain a balanced diet and regular exercise routine to help stabilize weight.
  3. If experiencing nausea, try taking Cymbalta with a small meal to improve tolerability.
  4. For children experiencing weight loss, work closely with a pediatrician to ensure proper growth and nutrition.
  5. Consider dose adjustments under medical supervision if weight changes are significant or problematic.

Remember, weight changes are just one aspect of Cymbalta treatment. The overall benefits of the medication in treating depression, anxiety, or pain should be weighed against potential side effects.

Understanding the Mechanisms Behind Cymbalta-Related Weight Changes

The relationship between Cymbalta and weight changes is complex and not fully understood. However, several potential mechanisms have been proposed:

Appetite Regulation

Cymbalta affects serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which play roles in appetite regulation. Initially, this can lead to decreased appetite and weight loss. Over time, as the body adjusts to the medication, appetite may normalize or even increase.

Metabolic Effects

Some researchers suggest that SNRIs like Cymbalta may influence metabolic processes, potentially affecting how the body burns calories. This could contribute to gradual weight gain in some individuals over long-term use.

Improvement in Depression Symptoms

As Cymbalta effectively treats depression, patients may experience an improvement in appetite and energy levels. This could lead to increased food intake and weight gain in some cases, particularly if depression had previously caused weight loss.

Comparing Cymbalta’s Weight Effects to Other Antidepressants

When considering Cymbalta’s impact on weight, it’s helpful to compare it to other commonly prescribed antidepressants:

  • SSRIs (e.g., Prozac, Zoloft): Generally associated with more significant weight gain than Cymbalta, especially with long-term use.
  • Other SNRIs (e.g., Effexor, Pristiq): Similar weight effects to Cymbalta, with initial weight loss possible followed by modest weight gain.
  • Bupropion (Wellbutrin): Often associated with weight loss and may be preferred for patients concerned about weight gain.
  • Tricyclic antidepressants: Typically associated with more substantial weight gain compared to Cymbalta.

This comparison highlights that Cymbalta’s weight effects are relatively moderate within the spectrum of antidepressant medications.

Special Considerations for Specific Patient Groups

The impact of Cymbalta on weight can vary depending on individual factors and specific patient groups:

Elderly Patients

Older adults may be more sensitive to weight changes and may require closer monitoring when taking Cymbalta. They may also be at higher risk for complications related to significant weight loss or gain.

Patients with Eating Disorders

For individuals with a history of eating disorders, the potential for weight changes with Cymbalta should be carefully considered and monitored. The initial weight loss effects could be problematic for those recovering from anorexia, while the potential for long-term weight gain might be concerning for those with binge eating disorder.

Diabetic Patients

Patients with diabetes should be aware that changes in weight can affect blood sugar control. Regular monitoring of blood glucose levels and potential adjustments to diabetes medications may be necessary when starting or adjusting Cymbalta treatment.

Long-Term Management and Follow-Up for Cymbalta Users

For patients using Cymbalta over extended periods, ongoing management and follow-up are crucial to address any weight-related concerns:

  • Regular weight checks: Incorporate weight monitoring into routine follow-up appointments.
  • Nutritional counseling: Consider referral to a dietitian if significant weight changes occur.
  • Lifestyle modifications: Encourage healthy eating habits and regular physical activity to help maintain a stable weight.
  • Medication adjustments: If weight changes become problematic, discuss potential dose adjustments or alternative medications with your healthcare provider.
  • Mental health support: Address any psychological impacts of weight changes, particularly if they affect self-esteem or treatment adherence.

By maintaining open communication with healthcare providers and implementing appropriate management strategies, patients can optimize their Cymbalta treatment while minimizing unwanted weight effects.

The Role of Genetics in Cymbalta-Related Weight Changes

Emerging research suggests that genetic factors may influence how individuals respond to Cymbalta, including its effects on weight. Some patients may be more predisposed to weight gain or loss based on their genetic makeup. While genetic testing for antidepressant response is not yet standard practice, it represents an exciting area of personalized medicine that could help tailor treatment approaches in the future.

Pharmacogenomic Considerations

Variations in genes that affect drug metabolism, such as those encoding cytochrome P450 enzymes, may influence how an individual processes Cymbalta. This could potentially impact side effects, including weight changes. As our understanding of pharmacogenomics grows, it may become possible to predict and mitigate weight-related side effects more effectively.

Balancing Efficacy and Side Effects in Cymbalta Treatment

When considering the weight effects of Cymbalta, it’s crucial to balance these potential side effects against the medication’s therapeutic benefits. For many patients, the relief from depression, anxiety, or chronic pain far outweighs concerns about modest weight changes. However, for some individuals, weight changes can significantly impact quality of life and treatment adherence.

Individualized Treatment Approaches

Healthcare providers should work closely with patients to develop individualized treatment plans that consider:

  • The severity of the condition being treated
  • The patient’s medical history and risk factors
  • Personal preferences regarding side effects and treatment goals
  • Alternative treatment options if weight changes become problematic

By taking a patient-centered approach, clinicians can help ensure that Cymbalta treatment is both effective and well-tolerated.

Future Directions in Research and Treatment

As our understanding of Cymbalta and its effects on weight continues to evolve, several areas of research and development show promise:

Biomarkers for Treatment Response

Researchers are working to identify biomarkers that could predict an individual’s likelihood of experiencing weight changes with Cymbalta. This could allow for more personalized prescribing practices and proactive management of side effects.

Novel Formulations

Pharmaceutical companies are exploring new formulations of Cymbalta and related compounds that may offer similar therapeutic benefits with reduced side effects, including those related to weight.

Combination Therapies

Investigating the use of Cymbalta in combination with other medications or supplements that could mitigate weight-related side effects is an area of ongoing research.

As research progresses, patients and healthcare providers can look forward to more refined and personalized approaches to managing depression, anxiety, and pain with Cymbalta while minimizing unwanted weight effects.

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.