How to Wean Off Cymbalta Safely

Cymbalta is an SRI (seratonin and nonadrenaline uptake inhibitor) medication that is used to treat depression. People who take this drug are sometimes faced with the task of stopping the medication. As is the case with most antidepressant medications, weaning off Cymbalta safely should be done carefully and in stages.

Instructions

• 1

  It is imperative that you talk to your doctor before discontinuing the dosing regimen. Abruptly stopping Cymbalta can cause a laundry list of withdrawal symptoms, collectively known as Antidepressant Discontinuation Syndrome. These include dizziness, electric shock sensations sometimes referred to as "the zaps," nausea and/or vomiting, nightmares, generalized anxiety, mood swings, and headaches

• 2

  Stick to the weaning schedule proposed by your doctor. In some cases, people begin the weaning regimen and then stop the medicine altogether. This can cause an onset of withdrawal symptoms that can last from a few days to a few weeks.

• 3

  Keep constant track of mood changes. Sometimes what appears to be psychological withdrawal symptoms will turn out to be the return of the depression that led to Cymbalta being prescribed in the first place. In this situation, the doctor may deem returning to original dosage the best course of action.

• 4

  Seek out support. There are several online communities devoted to the task of getting off psychoactive drugs. People dealing with moderate to severe withdrawal symptoms may take comfort in talking to or corresponding with people who have experienced (or are experiencing) a similar ordeal. Ask your doctor about support groups online or within the community.

• 5

  Be honest about your mental state when talking to your doctor. If depression is returning or withdrawal is too severe, the doctor may decide to continue the medication for a while longer.