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Cymbalta Substitute
Cymbalta® (duloxetine hydrochloride) is a medication used for treating several conditions, such as depression, generalized anxiety disorder, fibromyalgia, and peripheral diabetic neuropathy pain. Although it can be effective in treating these conditions, for some people, the drug does not work or may cause bothersome side effects. Fortunately, several substitutes for Cymbalta are available. These include:
- Therapy
- Other depression medications (also known as antidepressants)
- Electroconvulsive therapy
- Alternative (natural) therapies.
Some of the medications that are considered alternatives for Cymbalta include:
- Other serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs)
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Miscellaneous other antidepressants.
Some people may also consider complementary or alternative treatments for depression, such as:
- Acupuncture
- St. John's wort
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Vitamin B6
- SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine)
- 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan)
- Valerian.
In situations where medication, therapy, and the combination of these treatments prove ineffective or work too slowly to relieve severe symptoms, electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) may be considered.
If Cymbalta is not working for you or if it is causing bothersome side effects, ask your healthcare provider about trying a substitute.
(Click Cymbalta Alternatives for a more in-depth look at Cymbalta substitutes, such as therapy, other medications, and natural therapies. This article also explains when it may be time to consider an alternative.)
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD