It is whats known as aserotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI).
When SNRIs are discontinued, some people experience withdrawal symptoms.
This article discusses withdrawal from Cymbalta, including symptoms, how long it lasts, and how to cope.
Verywell / Emily Roberts
It can take days or weeks for your brain to settle into its new normal.
Although these symptoms are typically mild, they can be alarming when they come as a surprise.
Many people are not warned about the potential forwithdrawal symptomswhen they stop taking antidepressants.
If your doctor did warn you, they might have used the term antidepressant discontinuation syndrome.
How Long Does Cymbalta Withdrawal Last?
The most commonly cited symptom was dizziness, followed by nausea and headache.
Work with your doctor to develop a tapering schedule that fits your needs.
Your doctor may want to switch you to a different antidepressant or provide medical support for your withdrawal symptoms.
Tell your doctor why you are interested in quitting and ask abouttapering options.
Long-Term Treatment
After Cymbalta, you may require ongoing treatment.
Unlike other medications, like antibiotics, that work for almost everyone, antidepressants can be really hit-or-miss.
If Cymbalta doesnt work for you, ask your doctor to recommend something else.
Treating depression can involve a process of trial and error.
If you are quitting Cymbalta because you feel your depression has lifted, thats fantastic.
Depression is a disease with a very high reoccurrence rate.
Find out which option is the best for you.
Typically, this means continuing with a therapeutic dose of antidepressants to reduce the risk of relapse.
Other forms of maintenance therapy include psychotherapy.
In the meantime, keep an eye out for symptoms that your depression is returning.
TheSubstance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA)has a searchabledirectoryof qualified providers.
you might also call them at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).
If you are having suicidal thoughts, contact theNational Suicide Prevention Lifelineat988for support and assistance from a trained counselor.
If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call 911.
For more mental health resources, see ourNational Helpline Database.
If you dont think you need medication anymore, thats great, but dont neglect your mental health.
A qualified therapist can help bolster the effects of antidepressants and help prevent a relapse.
Just like medications, there is no one-size-fits-all therapist.
Keep trying until you find a combination that works for you.
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