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Amitriptyline&Cymbalta

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Posted 9/26/2014 3:02 AM (GMT 0)
Hey. I've never posted here, I'm usually on the Anxiety/PD but since I am also dealing with depression I thought I'd post this here too and see if I can get some advice.

So yesterday I went to the doc for a follow up they raised my dose of Amitriptyline from 25mg to 50mg two weeks ago and my IBS has been doing great! My anxiety is still really bad and my depression is getting worse so my doc gave me a prescription for Cymbalta. I've tried 4-5 SSRI's and I've either had bad reactions (one gave me suicidal tendencies) or they didn't help, I've tried a Benzo and had a very bad reaction (felt high). So for the last year I've been relying on my Klonopins and I've been upping my dose to where I'm scared my body is starting addiction. So I asked my doc for her advice and we both agreed to try a new med. We're going for the Cymbalta because I've never tried this class.

First of all I'm worried about having a bad reaction again. My anxiety is just creeping thinking about it. It really scares me and makes me think the worst possible thoughts.

Second she at first sounded concerned about leaving me on the Amitriptyline but then decided it would be okay to take them together.

I'm wondering if anyone has any experience taking these two drugs together?
I've read a lot on the forums and the most thing people say is Cymbalta causes insomnia but my Amitriptyline helps me sleep like a baby :)

Any advice???
Thank you
Posted 9/26/2014 8:49 AM (GMT 0)
I think the only thing you can do is try them. Basically the antidepressants have different reactions to different people. So it is hard to say how it is going to work on you. The amitriptyline is Elavil right? I have never taken that or Cymbalta. I take pristiq and Xanax. Plus abilify.

This will be your first time with an snri? I have been taking them for a long time now and have had success with them. Better than the ssri's. I get all the side effects of those. It is scary to start new medications, but know we are here for you every step of the way...

Have a good day...

Welcome to the depression forum. I will admit I am half asleep. It is early...

Hugs, Karen,....
Posted 9/26/2014 7:35 PM (GMT 0)
Karen,

Thank you for your advice. This is my first time trying an SNRI and I'm actually excited :)
Yes the Amitriptyline is Elavil. I was put on it for my IBS because the main side effect is constipation.
Thank you again for your encouragement :)
Posted 9/26/2014 9:03 PM (GMT 0)
I wish you the best. Keep us posted on how it goes...

Hugs, Karen.,.
Posted 9/27/2014 12:19 AM (GMT 0)
klonipin is extremly addicative and its good you will be getting off . its also a benzo.best of luck with the new meds.
Posted 9/28/2014 6:55 PM (GMT 0)
Thank you for the advice and encouragement.
Posted 9/28/2014 7:05 PM (GMT 0)
sumgirl,
I am very confused too as my meds don't work great to give me some relief ...just trial and error to see which one does better ...i don't like this method ...

i wish there was a blood test to figure it out.

keep posting
Posted 9/30/2014 5:50 PM (GMT 0)
The Cymbalta should help quell your anxiety & you can use your Klonipin PRN. Plus it'll help the depression.

I didn't have insomnia on Cymbalta. Plus like you said, the amitriptyline covers the sleep.

Let us know how the Cymbalta works for you!

We are always here for support & encouragement.

Sending love-
Lisa
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