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Cymbalta Vs. Prozac

Antidepressants are relied upon by women, men and children. Whether the patient simply needs a small mood lift or is struggling to ascend a major depression period, the drugs work with the chemicals in the brain to adjust behavior and regulate mood. Although both Cymbalta and Prozac work similarly and have multiple side effects in common, patients should evaluate these drugs to determine whether they are appropriate treatments.

  1. Cymbalta

    • Cymbalta is a prescription-only namebrand SSNRI (selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor) used to treat patients suffering major depression episodes and general anxiety disorder. It comes in pill form with a dose maximum of up to 60 mg per day (pills come in 20 mg, 30 mg and 60 mg doses).

    Prozac

    • Prozac is a prescription-only namebrand (generics are available) SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) used to treat depression, premenstrual disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, bulimia and panic disorder. It comes in pill form with dose maximums varying per patient, with pill doses from 10 mg to 90 mg.

    Side Effects

    • Cymbalta patients have reported the following extreme side effects while taking the drug (some discontinued use because of the effects): major depression, nausea, anxiety, neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia. The largest reported physical symptoms were nausea and headache. Cymbalta patients also may experience weight loss compared to placebo tests, as reported on Rx List. Other physical side effects may include heart palpitations, vertigo, flatulence, blurred vision, yawning and sleep disruption. Prozac patients have reported side effects ranging from the very common headache and nausea to the minimal fever and abnormal thoughts. Frequently reported side effects of Prozac include chills, heart palpitations and changes in the taste buds. Anxiety, nervousness and insomnia are also infrequently reported side effects of Prozac.

    Sexual Function

    • Antidepressants have been linked to sexual disorder in patients. According to a study on Rx List, male patients taking Cymbalta showed a much higher degree of sexual dysfunction while while taking the drug than those treated with a placebo (females did not experience a change). Males found it difficult to reach orgasm and had a reported decrease in sexual interest. For patients taking Prozac, decreased libido was reported in both females and males. Women report suffering from orgasm dysfunctions; men report priapism.

    Risk of Suicide

    • Children and adults up to age 24 who have a prior indication of major depression should be watched carefully when beginning treatment with Cymbalta or Prozac. These drugs, like other antidepressants, have been shown to increase suicidal thoughts and behaviors in these populations. Antidepressants like Cymbalta and Prozac may be linked to worsening depression. Patients should be observed for symptoms such as mania, panic attacks, aggression and impulsivity.

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