Posted by Minnie-Haha on February 18, 2005, at 11:29:05
In reply to Re: My 6-week rpt on Cymbalta (long), posted by sissy67 on February 17, 2005, at 15:54:28
I will start first by answering your last question: Sorry, I don't know anything about taking Cymbalta with Buspar.
As for Cymbalta side effects, the first 2-3 weeks I suffered a slew of mild to moderate SEs, including: tense/restless muscles, constipation, dry mouth, headaches, trouble falling asleep, heart palpitations, increased blood pressure and pulse, an increase in appetite, and amotivation. HOWEVER, it has very effectively treated my anxiety and depression, and the side effects are now all mild except for the blood pressure, pulse and appetite.
I HAVE gained 5 pounds since I started Cymbalta 2 months ago. I go to Curves 3 times a week, but my appetite is really up, and my faster heart-rate keeps pushing me out of the "fat-burning" range when I work out, but I don't know if my experience is typical. There have been 4-5 others here who have reported weight gain and/or blood pressure increases, but others who have maintained or lost weight, and who have NOT had BP problems.
I talked with my pdoc yesterday, and we are going to try lowering my dose from 60mg to 40mg to see if that helps. If not, then I am going to add 75mg of Bupropion (a very low dose of the generic Wellbutrin). If that doesn't work, we might try 25mcg of the thyroid med Cytomel, though that would push my monthly drug costs to near $100. (In addition to Cymbalta, I'm also on Trileptal for BP2, and Zocor for high cholesterol.)
As for sexual dysfunction, I had zero interest in L*O*V*E before I started on the Cymbalta, but now that I'm feeling better I find myself flirting with my husband more. I am having trouble reaching orgasm, but I'm enjoying sex nonetheless. Maybe if I end up on the Bupropion that will make things even better.
Good luck on your decision. I've had such good results on Cymbalta that I'm not ready to give up on it yet. Wish me luck!
poster:Minnie-Haha
thread:449155
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/20050217/msgs/459877.html