Cymbalta(duloxetine) is a common antidepressant for treating depression and anxiety. It’s also sometimes prescribed for diabetic peripheral neuropathy and other medical conditions that cause pain, like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and chronic back pain. Cymbalta is in a class of drugs known as serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). SNRIs balance norepinephrine and serotonin levels — neurotransmitters associated with mood regulation and alertness — in the brain.While Cymbalta can be very effective for some people, it’s not always the right medication for everyone. It might cause undesirableCymbalta side effects,adverse drug interactions, not be effective in relieving symptoms, or you might just be looking for natural alternatives to Cymbalta use. Holistic treatment options are becoming more appealing and familiar, whether combined with medication or therapy or when used independently.Whatever your reason is for looking into Cymbalta alternatives, we’re diving into everything you need to know about natural remedies and other drugs similar to Cymbalta.Psychiatry and prescriptions onlineGet an evaluation and prescription online from a licensed psychiatric provider to improve your well-being.Get started
Cymbalta(duloxetine) is a common antidepressant for treating depression and anxiety. It’s also sometimes prescribed for diabetic peripheral neuropathy and other medical conditions that cause pain, like arthritis, fibromyalgia, and chronic back pain. Cymbalta is in a class of drugs known as serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs). SNRIs balance norepinephrine and serotonin levels — neurotransmitters associated with mood regulation and alertness — in the brain.
While Cymbalta can be very effective for some people, it’s not always the right medication for everyone. It might cause undesirableCymbalta side effects,adverse drug interactions, not be effective in relieving symptoms, or you might just be looking for natural alternatives to Cymbalta use. Holistic treatment options are becoming more appealing and familiar, whether combined with medication or therapy or when used independently.
Whatever your reason is for looking into Cymbalta alternatives, we’re diving into everything you need to know about natural remedies and other drugs similar to Cymbalta.
Psychiatry and prescriptions onlineGet an evaluation and prescription online from a licensed psychiatric provider to improve your well-being.Get started
Psychiatry and prescriptions onlineGet an evaluation and prescription online from a licensed psychiatric provider to improve your well-being.
Psychiatry and prescriptions online
Get an evaluation and prescription online from a licensed psychiatric provider to improve your well-being.
Alternative Medications to Cymbalta
There are a variety of medications that may be viable alternatives to Cymbalta for depression or other conditions. Since every drug has unique traits, benefits, risks, and side effects, exploring each option and checking with a healthcare provider is vital before switching from Cymbalta.
1. Lexapro
2.Effexor (venlafaxine)
Effexor might be a good option to explore since it’s one of the drugs similar to Cymbalta. Because they’re in the same class of antidepressants — SNRIs — they work similarly.
However, it’s important to note that Effexormay causesignificant blood pressure changes compared to other antidepressants. So, monitoring your BP regularly and consulting a medical professional when taking this drug is critical.
3. Prozac (fluoxetine)
Prozacis a common and popular antidepressant medication in the SSRI class of drugs. It’s prescribed to treat major depressive disorder and obsessive-compulsive disorder. It’s also approved to treat the eating disorder bulimia and panic disorder in adults.
4. Wellbutrin (bupropion)
Wellbutrin is an antidepressant approved to treat major depressive disorder (MDD) and seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It’s also prescribed for smoking cessation. In the norepinephrine and dopamine reuptake inhibitors (NDRIs) class of drugs, Wellbutrin has some of the same adverse effects as Cymbalta, including the potential to cause dry mouth, dizziness, difficulty sleeping or insomnia, and nausea.
Natural Alternatives to Cymbalta
Medications like Cymbalta can work well for some people, but others might want a natural alternative. Whether it’s to avoid side effects or because you prefer a holistic approach, there are several non-pharmaceutical Cymbalta alternatives available.
6. Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are known for heart health benefits and the ability to support mental health. Omega-3s are critical to brain function and performance, and someresearchhas shown they can reduce symptoms of depression. Omega-3s are found naturally in food sources like salmon or they’re available as supplements.
7. Vitamin D
Known as the sunshine vitamin, Vitamin D can boost mood, which might make it a potential alternative to Cymbalta for depression.Studieshave found that people with depression often have low vitamin D levels, so supplementing might help.
8. L-theanine
L-theanine is a unique amino acid found in green tea leaves. It’s gained popularity recently as a result of the calming effect it can have on the body and mind. Inresearch, l-theanine has been shown to be effective in stress relief, mood enhancement, and improved sleep quality.
9. Lifestyle changes
“Therapy is a great way to develop insight into symptoms and diagnosis. It helps to facilitate awareness and understanding of the issues that the person is facing. You can also learn health coping strategies to help manage symptoms. Sometimes medication and therapy are combined to treat the person and have a positive outcome.”
Considerations for Switching to a Cymbalta AlternativeIf you’re considering switching from a medication like Cymbalta to a different drug or a holistic treatment plan, there are several important factors to remember. Finding a suitable alternative is only possible if it fits your unique needs and goals for improvement.Consider the following:Why do you want to transition from Cymbalta?Do the side effects of the drug outweigh any positive outcomes?Have you talked to your doctor about other medications you’re currently taking?“It is important to work closely with your psychiatrist when switching medications to avoidCymbalta withdrawal. Discuss and be open about your symptoms and concerns with your providers so they are aware of how you are doing.”–Talkspace therapist Bisma Anwar, LPC, LMHC
Considerations for Switching to a Cymbalta Alternative
If you’re considering switching from a medication like Cymbalta to a different drug or a holistic treatment plan, there are several important factors to remember. Finding a suitable alternative is only possible if it fits your unique needs and goals for improvement.
Consider the following:
“It is important to work closely with your psychiatrist when switching medications to avoidCymbalta withdrawal. Discuss and be open about your symptoms and concerns with your providers so they are aware of how you are doing.”
Find the Right Alternative with TalkspaceIf you’re trying to decide whether to change medications or take a holistic approach to your treatment plan — or if you’re curious about combining medicine with therapy or non-pharmaceutical treatment options — Talkspace is here.Talkspace is an online platform with a team of mental health professionals who can provide therapy, prescriptions, and medication management.We offer telehealth from the comfort of your home as you make critical decisions about your medication and treatment plan. Our team is here to help you navigate the complexities of medication changes.
Find the Right Alternative with Talkspace
If you’re trying to decide whether to change medications or take a holistic approach to your treatment plan — or if you’re curious about combining medicine with therapy or non-pharmaceutical treatment options — Talkspace is here.
Talkspace is an online platform with a team of mental health professionals who can provide therapy, prescriptions, and medication management.
We offer telehealth from the comfort of your home as you make critical decisions about your medication and treatment plan. Our team is here to help you navigate the complexities of medication changes.
Sources:
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