Does Cymbalta help with Digestion

Carrie48

Veteran Member

Joined : Mar 2010

Posts : 638

Posted 7/18/2012 12:34 AM (GMT 0)

Hi all,

I have been off Cymbalta since May 1st. I am noticing however that my digestion seems to be "off" and I am having all kinds of trouble with bloating which I think is causing my acid reflux. I was having problems with acid before I went off the Cymbalta and thought that it might have been causing it, but now I don't think it was the culprit because it's been 2.5 months and I still am having problems...only now, I also seem to be having digestion issues as well.

I know that some serotonin drugs can help with digestion. Is Cymbalta one of those? Has anyone noticed any difference with their digestion with the Cymbalta. I'm very frustrated. I'm starting to wonder my anxiety is causing me digestive issues and sort of thinking about going back on the Cymbalta. Also, my sleep was SO MUCH better on the Cymbalta.

Thanks.

stkitt

Elite Member

Joined : Apr 2007

Posts : 32602

Posted 7/18/2012 12:43 AM (GMT 0)

A recent study published on the John Hopkins Health alerts: "People with IBS have significantly lower levels of serotonin in cells lining the stomach. Although serotonin is best known for its role as a mood-boosting brain chemical, it is also involved in many digestive functions and in the perception of pain. In fact, more serotonin is found in the stomach than in the brain, and the GI tract is very sensitive to changes in its serotonin level. The researchers concluded that IBS may arise from abnormalities in serotonin levels responsible for digestive functions."

All information contained within the Johns Hopkins Health alerts website is intended for educational purposes only. Consumers should never disregard medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something they may have read on this website.

skn517

New Member

Joined : Sep 2012

Posts : 1

Posted 9/6/2012 11:34 PM (GMT 0)

Thanks for the information. I've been off Cymbalta for over a year after a very rapid, miserable, withdrawal period. After 17 years on various anti-depressants, my GP gave me one week of 30 mg and then nothing! Suffice it to say that wasn't the best medical advice. My digestive system has been extremely affected by the withdrawal. I've been to doctors several times, had ultrasound, MRI, CT scan and Endoscopic Ultrasound (EUS) only to still have the same symptoms (but found some fat on liver and a pancreatic cyst). Also, have had blood tests (gliaden panel) that came back above the normal range - GP told me to not eat gluten and dairy. My Gastro told me the test didn't mean anything and told me to not eat gluten if it made me feel better (haven't noticed any difference), but I wasn't Celiac.
I am now trying accupuncture. After four treatments, I haven't noticed much difference either. This includes taking an adrenal supplement and now digestive enzymes.
Here is what I believe Cymbalta does. It works by circulating serotonin which occurs in both the brain and the gut. Supposedly, according to its newest indication, it also works on pain receptors. When someone stops taking this drug, those organs affected by serotonin undergo withdrawal symptoms. The gut can go into hyperdrive and pain perception is greater. Anxiety is also an issue, which can also trigger digestive symptoms (pain, gas, diarrhea, etc.).
Obviously I'm frustrated with the lack of counseling of patients about this drug, especially the many problems associated with withdrawal/discontinuation. I firmly believe FDA and the drug company have been negligent in not having an established discontinuation program for these drugs. The fact that almost any physician can prescribe them is criminal.
I am now convinced that the problems I'm having are permanent and I will just have to adjust life to deal with them. I firmly believe one should carefully consider all the pros and cons of Cymbalta and do research before agreeing to take this drug!

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