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Is Switching From Cymbalta To Celexa Safe?

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Posted on Wed, 5 Aug 2015
Question: My doctor is switching me from cymbalta 30 mg to celexa 10mg. What side effects if any can I expect
doctor
Answered by Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Mild restlessness or anxiety can be seen

Detailed Answer:
Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries

I can understand your concern. If proper gradual dose reduction of Cymbalta is done and in the same time doses of Celexa are increased gradually then there will be minimal side effects. As Cymbalta is a SNRI drug so abrupt stoppage might results in drowsiness, sedation, slight restlessness, dizziness, anxiety etc symptoms. To some extent Celexa will control these symptoms.

For restlessness if become intolerable prn basis use of Clonazepam or Lorazepam can help. Consult your doctor if you develop any symptoms.

Rest no need to worry, cross tapering of the drugs is easy.

Thanks, I hope this helps you. If you have more doubts please dont hesitate to ask again.

Take care
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (1 hour later)
So what is the best way to cross taper?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (8 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Cross tapering of Duloxetine

Detailed Answer:
Hello again

Best way considering your dose is to reduce the tablet Duloxetine to half for next 15 days and on the same time start with 5 mg Celexa. After 15 day Duloxetine should be stopped and dose of Celexa can vs increased to 10 mg. This would prevent withdrawal symptoms. Consult your doctor for detailed prescription.

Thanks, still have more doubts please ask again.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
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Follow up: Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (25 minutes later)
Thank you so much. I have one more quick question. Cymbalta in Canada is only available in 30 mg capsules. Can I take them every second day?
doctor
Answered by Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi (2 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Taking tablet on alternate days will help

Detailed Answer:
Hello again

Yes that should work, but if possible try some different brand available as tablet. Though taking tablet in alternate days will do the work. No need to worry.

Thanks, Take care
Note: For further guidance on mental health, Click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
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Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Seikhoo Bishnoi

Psychiatrist

Practicing since :2007

Answered : 5193 Questions

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Is Switching From Cymbalta To Celexa Safe?

Brief Answer: Mild restlessness or anxiety can be seen Detailed Answer: Hello thanks for asking from HCM for your health related queries I can understand your concern. If proper gradual dose reduction of Cymbalta is done and in the same time doses of Celexa are increased gradually then there will be minimal side effects. As Cymbalta is a SNRI drug so abrupt stoppage might results in drowsiness, sedation, slight restlessness, dizziness, anxiety etc symptoms. To some extent Celexa will control these symptoms. For restlessness if become intolerable prn basis use of Clonazepam or Lorazepam can help. Consult your doctor if you develop any symptoms. Rest no need to worry, cross tapering of the drugs is easy. Thanks, I hope this helps you. If you have more doubts please dont hesitate to ask again. Take care