Cymbalta is approved for use in treating depression, fibromyalgia, neuropathic pain, and generalized anxiety disorder in adults. The medication treats depression and anxiety by keeping certain chemicals (serotonin and norepinephrine) in the brain balanced. There are currently several off-label Cymbalta uses, such as treating stress incontinence and chronic pain.
Changes in sleep (sleeping too much or not enough)
Eating too much or too little (and weight gain or weight loss)
Having little interest in things that you used to enjoy
Physical pain
Feeling hopeless or worthless
Suicidal thoughts.
Cymbalta has been proven in large clinical trials to help adults with depression. However, keep in mind that many antidepressants (including Cymbalta) take several weeks to begin working. Sometimes, other people will notice an improvement in your depression symptoms before you do. Often, the physical symptoms of depression (such as pain or changes in sleep) will improve first, sometimes within the first few weeks of treatment. It usually takes at least four to six weeks before significant changes in mood occur. It is important to give Cymbalta a chance to work before becoming discouraged.
Counseling and therapy (see Psychotherapy for Depression) are often used along with antidepressant medication to treat depression. Ask your healthcare provider if counseling or therapy would be good options for you (see Depression Treatment).
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