Nana asked
Can you stop Cymbalta 30 mg after taking it for 5 days?
Answer
Generally speaking, most antidepressants do not need to be tapered if you have only been taking them for 5 days. However, there might be an exception for Cymbalta and whether or not you should taper your dose (i.e. slowing and incrementally decreasing your dosage until discontinuation) should be based on a conversation you have with your doctor.
Tapering Cymbalta (Duloxetine)
Tapering is recommended for several different medications to prevent potential withdrawal symptoms and a worsening of the disease state (e.g. depression). Most antidepressants are recommended to be tapered if an individual has been on them for as little as a few months. However, antidepressants that are classified SNRIs (Selective Serotonin Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitors), such as Cymbalta, are known for particularly difficult withdrawal symptoms. Potential withdrawal symptoms include:
- Flu-like symptoms
- Insomnia
- Imbalance
- Sensory disturbances
- Hyperarousal
- Nausea/vomitting
Depending on the individual, some sources recommend tapering SNRI medications (such as Cymbalta) if they have been taken for as little as one week to avoid potential withdrawal symptoms.
In terms of tapering methods, there generally is not one single recommended way that applies to all medications and all patients. Methods employed tend to be very individualized based on medical history, age, length of prescription use etc...
One commonly used method is as follows:
- Reduce your current dosage of Cymbalta by 25% every four to six week. Adjust tapering schedule based on symptoms and tolerability.
If symptoms do occur, they are typically mild and usually begin within a week of starting your taper and last anywhere from a few days to a few weeks.
Taking Cymbalta (duloxetine) for 5 days is certainly a short amount of time and you may not need to taper the medication. As everyone's situation and medical history is unique, it is important to speak with your doctor to discuss whether or not tapering your dose is appropriate and which tapering method is the best option for you if necessary.
