Connect with others who understand.

  • Learn from expert-reviewed resources
  • Real advice from people who’ve been there
  • People who understand what you’re going through
Sign Up Log In
Powered By
Real members of MyFibroTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Fredericton, NB

My Dr. prescribed this but I don`t feel depressed other than worn down from this illness which I think is reasonable for all of us who suffer from this and how it has changed so much of our lives. From all my research it seems`s Fibro is the result of neuro-chemical imbalance but I also feel it is rheumatic related due to weather affecting flare ups ect,also it respresents itself with the same symptoms as MS except without the degenerative disease manifestations to the tissues as MS.I don`t… read more

January 8, 2016 (edited)
 · 
Reactions

Answer Summary

Members discussed their varied experiences with Cymbalta for fibromyalgia, with most clarifying that doctors prescribe it not for depression... Read more

Members discussed their varied experiences with Cymbalta for fibromyalgia, with most clarifying that doctors prescribe it not for depression but because certain antidepressants help with pain by affecting serotonin levels, similar to how anticonvulsants are used without assuming epilepsy. Several members shared mixed results, with some finding it helpful for anxiety and achieving fewer flares, others experiencing dizziness and memory issues that led them to switch medications like Effexor or Savella, and a few combining it successfully with medications like Neurontin or Diclofenac for comprehensive pain management. A recurring theme was the importance of giving medications time to work while staying alert to side effects, the value of complementary treatments like myofascial release massage, and understanding that fibromyalgia involves complex neurochemical factors beyond depression alone.

A MyFibroTeam Member

From what I understand, they aren't prescribing Cymbalta to us because we are depressed--although that is often a comorbid condition. It's because certain anti-depressents affect serotonin in a way that helps with our pain. Anticonvulsants, for example, are also often prescribed to help with fibro pain but it is not becasue doctors think we're epileptic.

January 8, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

I take it for depression and for pain. So glad it is out in generic now. It really has worked well for me, although I also take Neurontin and Diclofenac for other pain issues. Like Nancy said, if it's not you, you will know. Effexor was a bad experience for me, so I am thankful for Cymbalta, and my rheumatologist just mentioned a couple new ones are available should I stop responding to it, I hope that day is far off.

January 9, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

You will know if it's not for you! I went back on Effexor because Cymbalta made me very dizzy, confused and I had difficulty remembering anything or making even small decisions! I took it for over 3 weeks because it takes time to work fully. Others say it works great! Antidepressants are not just for depression. I take it for pain. Major pain increase when I try to wean off. Good luck ! 😄

January 8, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

I have been taking Cymbalta for 6 months. This go round, and for 2 years the first time. While I can't say it has done much for the pain it has done an amazing job with the anxiety. My flair are still painful but they are fewer and I'm no longer afraid of everything and I'm a much happier person. I wasn't depressed either bit my anxiety made it impossible for me to be me.

January 8, 2016
A MyFibroTeam Member

Hi Mary Angel, I use diclofenac for arthritis pain, fibro pain, and gabapentin for nerve issues. Very occasionally if things get out of hand, I may take a muscle relaxer. I also have regular massage to remove the many trigger points that fibro causes in my muscles, through the modality of myofascial release. Deep tissue massage can put me out of commission for a week, so I am very careful who works on me. Cymbalta replaces my usual depression med, and definitely has helped me stay more 'normal' on a day to day basis.

January 12, 2016

Related Questions

View All
A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Austin, TX

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Beverly, NJ

A MyFibroTeam Member asked a question 💭
Eden, NC