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Have Depression And Muscle Weakness. No Relief From Cymbalta. What Should I Do?

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Posted on Mon, 1 Apr 2013
Question: Have been taking Cymbalta for 3 weeks. Depression is worse. Will it get better if I continue taking Cymbalta? Have severe muscle weakness and pain especially in my leg thighs. It's a struggle to walk. Sleep - about 3 Hrs. each night, But the worst is the depression...need to force myself to get up each day..go through the motions of brushing teeth, washing face, getting dressed...it's so hard. Will Cymbalta help this depression if I keep taking it? Depression is worse since I started Cymbalta. Harder to get out of bed in the morning.
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Answered by Dr. Payman Hajiazim (1 hour later)
Hi there, thanks for asking. Cymbalta needs several weeks (3 to 6 weeks depending to the situations) to put its effect. The dose should be adjusted by the doctor during this period, according to the weight of the person and also toleration. Some people may have change in their mood with 60 mg a day of it, while some needs a little more.
The side effects you mentioned are very common especially during the first few weeks. You can tell your doctor about them especially sleep problem. He may give you a medication to improve your sleep during the first one or two months. I hope you find your answers here. Feel free to ask any question. I wish you a good health.
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
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Dr. Payman Hajiazim

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2000

Answered : 634 Questions

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Have Depression And Muscle Weakness. No Relief From Cymbalta. What Should I Do?

Hi there, thanks for asking. Cymbalta needs several weeks (3 to 6 weeks depending to the situations) to put its effect. The dose should be adjusted by the doctor during this period, according to the weight of the person and also toleration. Some people may have change in their mood with 60 mg a day of it, while some needs a little more.
The side effects you mentioned are very common especially during the first few weeks. You can tell your doctor about them especially sleep problem. He may give you a medication to improve your sleep during the first one or two months. I hope you find your answers here. Feel free to ask any question. I wish you a good health.