From the Research
Tapering off Cymbalta (duloxetine) 60mg should be done gradually under medical supervision to minimize withdrawal symptoms, with a recommended reduction of 30mg every 2 weeks, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study available 1. When considering the tapering process, it's essential to prioritize the patient's safety and minimize potential withdrawal symptoms. The tapering schedule can be adjusted based on individual patient needs and the presence of any troublesome symptoms.
- A typical approach is to reduce the dose by 30mg every 2 weeks, so going from 60mg to 30mg daily for two weeks, then to 20mg daily for two weeks, and finally to 10mg daily for two weeks before stopping completely.
- Some doctors may recommend an even slower taper, especially if the patient has been on the medication for a long time.
- Withdrawal symptoms can include dizziness, nausea, headache, fatigue, irritability, and a sensation often described as "brain zaps," which occur because the brain needs time to adjust to decreasing levels of serotonin and norepinephrine that Cymbalta affects.
- Never stop Cymbalta abruptly, as this can lead to severe withdrawal symptoms.
- If the patient experiences troublesome symptoms during the taper, they should contact their healthcare provider, who may adjust the schedule to make it more gradual.
- Staying well-hydrated and maintaining healthy sleep habits during this process can help minimize discomfort, as noted in various studies, including those on the safety and efficacy of duloxetine 2, 3, 4, 5.