Hello, I have been on prozac for approx. 9 years. In March of this year - my PC decided (do to nueropathic pain) to put be in Cymbalta. I was taking prozac for basically a severe type A personality - that couldn t be suppressed which led to frustration and anger - which I could not control, hence depression developed. Prozac was great - but Cymbalta is not. I have experienced side effects since the start - and if I miss a dose or am just a couple hours late taking it - the feelings are horrible - too many to described. The PC said stop taking Cymbalta immediately - and no Prozac until my system is cleaned out . I asked if I could gradually stop the Cymbalta - which the pharmacist said he would glady help me do. The PC said no - stop immediately. I am scared to death of the side effects. What is your recommendation?
Hello. It is advised to gradually taper down the dose to avoid the discontinuation syndrome of Duloxetine (Cymbalta). You may talk with your PC to prescribe you specific symptomatic treatments for the various discontinuation symptoms you may experience. And once the discontinuation (withdrawal) symptoms have subsided, you can resume Prozac with your PC's review. The guidelines suggest Cymbalta should be tapered of gradually. Take care.