Cymbalta for Pain

Cymbalta^® (duloxetine hydrochloride) is a prescription medicine approved for the treatment of several different conditions. Among other uses, Cymbalta is approved to treat peripheral diabetic neuropathy pain, fibromyalgia pain, and chronic musculoskeletal pain (such as arthritis pain or back pain).

The medication is a type of serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor that works by balancing the levels of serotonin and norepinephrine -- chemicals that can cause anxiety and depression if they become unbalanced. Although it is not entirely clear how Cymbalta works for nerve pain, it appears to help block the nerve pain signals in the spinal cord or brain.

Healthcare providers may also occasionally recommend off-label uses for this antidepressant. Using Cymbalta for pain that is chronic and stress incontinence (loss of bladder control) is considered to be an off-label use.

(Click Cymbalta Uses to learn more about the specific uses of this medication and for more information on how Cymbalta works for these conditions.)