Coffee and antidepressants like Cymbalta are two popular and common substances, but is drinking coffee while taking Cymbalta safe? This article looks at the interaction of coffee and Cymbalta, some common side effects and advice from experts.
Background Information
Cymbalta is a drug developed and sold by Eli Lilly and Company and is the brand name for duloxetine hydrochloride. It is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SSNRI) and was first approved by the Food and Drug Administration of the United States in 2004. It is indicated for the treatment of a number of mental health disorders, including depression, anxiety, stress and obsessive-compulsive disorder.
Coffee is a brewed dark drink made from coffee beans, which are the seeds of the coffee plant. Depending on how it is made, the caffeine content in coffee can range from approximately 50-200 mg per cup. Caffeine is a Central Nervous System stimulant, and it has been linked to improved concentration, alertness, and physical performance.
Expert Opinion
According to experts, drinking coffee while taking Cymbalta is generally safe but should be done with caution. Caffeine has been linked to an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, and while this is usually not an issue if taken in moderation, it could potentially increase the risk of side effects when combined with Cymbalta.
Experts advise those taking Cymbalta to limit their coffee intake to 2-3 cups per day, as higher amounts could interact with the drug and produce adverse effects such as nausea, headache, dizziness, and insomnia. It is also important to note that for some people, even low amounts of caffeine can trigger side effects. As such, it is best to consult a medical professional before drinking coffee while taking Cymbalta.
Side Effects
Both caffeine and Cymbalta can cause various side effects, and these may be more pronounced when taken together. Common side effects associated with Cymbalta include nausea, constipation, diarrhea, and dizziness. They can also cause a decrease in appetite and weight loss.
Caffeine can cause jitteriness, anxiety, and insomnia. It can also lead to dehydration, irritability, and headaches. Thus, when drinking coffee with Cymbalta, one should be aware of any potential side effects and ensure to drink enough water to prevent dehydration.
Expert Advice
Experts recommend discussing the use of coffee with a doctor before taking Cymbalta, as caffeine can reduce the efficacy of the drug. Furthermore, if any side effects are experienced while taking Cymbalta, they should be reported to a healthcare professional immediately.
It is also important to check with a doctor before combining anti-depressants, such as Cymbalta, with other medications like over-the-counter painkillers as there can be adverse effects when combined. For people taking Cymbalta and drinking coffee, it is best to stay within the recommended daily limit of 2-3 cups of coffee.
Most importantly, one should consult with a doctor or mental health professional if they are struggling with any signs of depression, anxiety, or other mental health related issues they may be experiencing before relying on any form of self-medication.
Adequate Sleep
Caffeine can affect one’s ability to get a good night’s sleep, and not getting enough sleep can reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants like Cymbalta. Getting adequate restful sleep is important for mental and physical health, so sleeping for at least 7-8 hours a night should be a priority for anyone taking Cymbalta.
If feeling very sleepy during the day, experts advise avoiding caffeine in the afternoon as this can disrupt nighttime sleep. Additionally, one should make sure to go to bed at the same time each night, as creating a consistent sleep schedule helps one to maintain a regular sleeping pattern.
Mindfulness
In addition to limiting caffeine intake and getting adequate sleep, experts suggest practising mindfulness to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Mindfulness refers to the practice of focusing on the present moment. Regularly practising mindfulness can help reduce stress, regulate one’s mood, and help manage depression and anxiety.
Mindfulness activities can include journaling, listening to music, yoga, walking, or any other activities that involve being present and in the moment. Furthermore, mindfulness can be practised on its own, or it can be supplemented with other forms of therapy such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and psychotherapy.
Exercise
Engaging in regular physical activity has been shown to reduce and even prevent symptoms of depression and anxiety. Exercise can help improve mood, increase energy and create a sense of wellbeing. Studies show that exercise has similar effects to antidepressant medications, and experts recommend a minimum of 30 minutes of exercise three times a week for people suffering from depression.
Experts suggest starting slowly with 10-minute sessions of low-intensity activity multiple times a week. This can include activities such as walking, swimming, and cycling. Additionally, activities such as stretching and yoga have been found to be effective in promoting mental wellbeing.
Social Support
Social support is another important factor in managing depression and anxiety. Creating social connections and engaging in meaningful conversations has been found to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Studies have shown that people who have strong social networks have lower levels of stress and are happier and more resilient.
Engaging in activities with friends and family can help improve one’s sense of belonging and social connectedness. Furthermore, talking to a therapist or a mental health professional can help provide support and reduce feelings of isolation and loneliness.
