Another fear is I just started cymbalta 3 days ago

[Silkie55]

I read that you can have withdrawals from cymbalta and it is very expensive. I've only had 3 30mg pills I each day for 3 days. Can I stop now and not have more withdrawals than I'm already going through! I wish I had read the board first. I don't want to trade one addiction For another?

[nursegirl6572]

You're very welcome.

Are you planning on trying it, or just stop?

If you're going to keep taking it, I can give you some more info.

[Silkie55]

Oh good! Thank you so much!

[nursegirl6572]

Cymbalta isn't habit forming.  The "w/d" people talk about is actually called a "discontinuation syndrome".  After 3 days, you won't have any issues.

If you feel you need something for depression, don't be afraid to take it.  If and when you want to come off, your doc will taper you.  When these kinds of meds are tapered properly, there is little to no discomfort.  

The decision to take a medication for depression/anxiety is a personal one.  If you were abusing drugs as a way of self medicating for anxiety or depression (which is quite common), then it might not be a bad idea to try the Cymbalta.  Either way, you have to address that initial depression/anxiety.  If you choose to do it without meds, then be sure you're seeking therapy.

If you were taking Cymbalta for depression/anxiety related to detox, then that's a bit different...some say it's better to let the brain heal on its own.

Anyway...if you want to stop, you'll be fine after only 3 doses, no worries.  It takes weeks for Cymbalta to really start changing the brain chemistry.