Managing Cymbalta's side effects
Cymbalta (Duloxetine) belongs to the family of drugs called SNRI (Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors). It is used to treat depressive disorders, various types of anxiety disorders, chronic pain, obsessive-compulsive disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder.
After taking the medicine, you may experience:
- Nausea,
- Dry mouth,
- Constipation,
- Loss of appetite,
- Tiredness,
- Drowsiness,
- or increased sweating.
For most people, the nausea is mild to moderate and usually subsides within one to two weeks. The nausea can be minimised by taking the antidepressant after food, rather with an empty stomach.
Other common side effects include (listed in order of frequency):
- Constipation,
- Decreased appetite,
- Dizziness,
- Dry mouth,
- Fatigue,
- Increased sweating,
- Loss of strength or energy,
- Sleepiness.
If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor promptly.
Dizziness or lightheadedness may occur, especially when you first start or increase your dose of this drug. If you have headaches, you can try taking analgesics to relieve the headaches, consider the option of going slow, e.g. to take the antidepressant on alternate days, and then gradually increasing it to once a day; and also discuss with your doctor if another medicine can be tried instead.
Managing Lorazepam's side effects
Lorazepam belongs to a group of drugs called benzodiazepines. It affects chemicals in the brain that may be unbalanced in people with anxiety. It is used to treat anxiety disorders and seizure disorders.
Side effects of lorazepam include:
- severe drowsiness
- thoughts of suicide or hurting yourself
- unusual changes in mood or behaviour
- worsened sleep problems
- sudden restless feeling or excitement
- muscle weakness
- drooping eyelids
Do let your treating doctor know about the side effects of the medicine. It is possible to adjust the dosage or switch to another medicine if you find the side effects unbearable.
Additional ways you can manage your anxiety
If you feel anxious, you can also try practising relaxation techniques like progressive muscle relaxation, deep breathing, and going for a long walk or listening to your favourite songs to help you calm down.
