Loading...
Brand name drugs like Cymbalta have become unaffordable for many patients. That’s why most people are dispensed generic Cymbalta (duloxetine). We have received complaints that some generic formulations are not up to snuff.
Q. I have taken Cymbalta for depression and pain. The generic I have been given just plain doesn’t help me, so I’ve been looking for an “authorized generic” that would be identical to the brand name.
One pharmacy refused to order it because they said they would lose money. Another looked at me like I was asking for a unicorn.
My insurance company didn’t have a clue what I was talking about. Cymbalta as a brand name isn’t covered and I cannot afford the $250 a month it would cost out of pocket. Can you help me?
A. Authorized generic drugs are identical to the brand name products, sometimes manufactured in the same facility. Prasco initially sold an authorized generic version of Cymbalta (duloxetine) but no longer does so. A spokesperson told us that there is currently no authorized generic for Cymbalta.
Readers who Report Problems with Generic Cymbalta (Duloxetine):
You are not the only visitor to our website who has reported problems with generic Cymbalta (duloxetine). Here are some other stories from readers:
S. wrote about her quest for an authorized generic Cymbalta (duloxetine):
“I asked my pharmacy a few months back about ordering an authorized generic form of duloxetine. The technician had a ‘deer in the headlights’ look on her face.
“I’ve tried two different manufacturers of generic ‘equivalents’ for Cymbalta and neither are worth the trip to the store. Thankfully, the brand name showed up finally from Eli Lilly after four months of waiting because my income (or lack of it) qualifies me to get for free medicine. I don’t know what happened at their Lilly Cares program but to make someone wait for meds for almost five months is just plain disgraceful. That’s what sent me on my quest for an authorized generic in the first place.”
Alice shared this experience about generic Cymbalta (duloxetine) for pain:
“I have completed three experiments with the generic duloxetine, each from a different manufacturer of the medication. All failed to relieve my pain symptoms. However, each time I returned to brand name Cymbalta between trials, the sharp pain and neck stiffness was controlled within days.
“I then tried an increase in the dosage to 40 mg and found no difference. I was able to find some relief when I doubled my dose to 60 mg, but the side effects of the medication were too much of a concern. Whatever the variances allowed in production of these generics, it seems to be preventing the active ingredient from providing pain relief in my case.
“My insurance won’t cover brand name Cymbalta. My appeal was denied because: ‘The generic products are A-rated by the FDA for bioequivalence and therapeutic equivalence to the brand name product. An A-rated product will produce comparable absorption and blood levels to the brand name product and would not be expected result in an increase incidence of adverse effects or sub-therapeutic effect compared to the brand product…’
“A one month prescription of brand name Cymbalta costs about $250, so I am now doing a trial using the brand and generic on alternate days to reduce my overall cost. I would be most interested in any research on this medication that might overturn the FDA ruling.”
Judy offered this:
“I do not know where to turn. I was switched from name brand Cymbalta to duloxetine made by a company based in India. I had an immediate return of depression symptoms including suicidal ideation. Many people on the net complained about its ineffectiveness.
“I contacted the FDA and the Indian company wanted my entire supply of pills. I sent them six. I received a new refill of duloxetine from the company with a different lot number. Already I am stable, happy and more functional. I believe the generic drug company released the formulation with a lower amount of effective ingredient just to see if they could get by with it. This latest supply is effective. Seems that should be illegal.”
Kristin’s experience:
“I have been on Cymbalta for the past four years. I have been too afraid of the suicidal thoughts returning to try and go off of this drug. I lost my job and insurance and it costs $250.00 to get 30 capsules!
“I can’t afford it and have not had it for 4 days and I am barely able to function let alone work. Withdrawal started after 24 hours off the drug and has progressively gotten worse. I have severe dizziness, headache, brain zaps that feel like lightning bolts going down through my arms and out of my hands. My hands are tingling and hypersensitive. My GI tract is in hyper drive and my appetite is way down. I am also moody and very sensitive.
“What the H#**!!! I am an RN. How can I take care of my patients like this? Due to the cost of this drug I don’t even have any to wean myself off it. HELP!”
Brand Name Drugs from Canada:
If you purchase brand name Cymbalta from a legitimate Canadian pharmacy, the cost could be about one third as much as in the U.S. To learn more about authorized generics and reliable Canadian pharmacies, you may want to read the newly-revised Guide to Saving Money on Medicines we are sending you. This 20-page Guide is available for download at PeoplesPharmacy.com for $2.99.
Patricia
I was taking the name brand Cymbalta for years for Fibromyalgia pain and anxiety. Then insurance put a stop to name brand, and I was given Duluxetine by Solco. That helped but nothing like the name brand. That stopped, and then I was givem a brand by Ajanta. I started going backwards: my pain and anxiety was off the charts. My hair was falling out and got so thin. My drug store started special ordering me the Solco brand. Now that has stopped again and once again only have Ajanta. I don’t know what to do! I can’t be in that pain again. I need somewhat of a life. This needs to stop. HELP?
Sue
I haven’t felt like myself for the past few months. I thought that they might have switched another generic drug I take that has the problem generics. I am so lucky that my pharmacy called and saw a change of my Cymbalta generic manufacture. I had been in pain and completely unmotivated. I am on day 2 of my original brand.
Nicole
I am a new user of Cymbalta. I take it for severe nerve pain and anxiety symptoms along with Gabapentin. I recently reported how much my symptoms were managed with Cymbalta, so much that I was going to reduce the Gabapentin. I picked up the third refill, and within days, my nerve pain returned and I am so uncomfortable. I called the pharmacy, and she said it was from a different manufacturer (my first prescriptions were blue/white, and the recent one was light green//white). The pharmacist instructed me to call back next week to see if she can get the brand name.
I found this website because I had to find out if this is in my head. I definitely can’t afford $250 for Cymbalta; I also can’t afford to live in burning nerve pain.
I will continue to research the medication differences and, if necessary, become an advocate to reduce the brand name cost. This is horrible!
Lisa
I have been on brand name Cymbalta 60 mg since it came to market in 2001 or so. It was a miracle drug for me. I have severe panic attacks and generalized anxiety disorder/somatic symptom disorder. After about 9 years it started not to work anymore. Shortly after the generic became available I tried several, to no avail. But 5 years ago I couldn’t bite the bullet and pay the full price for brand name any longer. So I was given the little yellow pills from Breckenridge. They seemed to work OK.
Fast backward a bit. I tried to get off Cymbalta and try something else but trying to hold a job with the withdrawals so debilitating so I could not stop them. Now now I’m only on 20 mg just to keep my mind at peace, although it doesn’t give me the help I totally need for panic.
Anyway, 2 months ago my pharmacy switched, and I was given the Ajanta blue and white pills. Well,maybe it was all in my mind but I have been having horrible side effects from the Ajanta brand.
Can anyone else confirm the accuracy of this story about Ajanta for help ? Thanks so much. Maybe it’s all in my anxious mind.
Mina
This is a REAL issue!!!!! I am copying and pasting from an appointment with a psychiatrist yesterday.
The doc said:
“I would recommend duloxetine. Be aware that there are a number of problematic generic preparations of duloxetine currently on the market. All scripts for duloxetine leave this office with the following instructions to the pharmacist: “Do NOT fill with Lupin, Sun, Torrent, Citron, Prasco, Camber, Breckenridge, Apotex, Blue Point, Solco, Rising, Ajanta or Dr. Reddy brands. Actavis or Teva brands preferred if available.”
RG
Thank you so much for validating my experience. I’ve been taking brand name Cymbalta 120mg a day for perhaps ten years now, but my insurance recently decided to stop covering it and put me on Teva generic duloxetine. I was nervous and consulted my psychiatrist who told me there was nothing to worry about.
I made the switch several weeks ago, and I’ve been wondering what’s wrong with me ever since. I finally decided today that I need to look into this, and now I see that your site and others have had numerous such complaints over the years. And if there’s a difference in the release mechanism that can sometimes be felt at 30 or 40mg, it would almost defy logic for there not to be a difference at the max dose of 120mg. It might be time for me to look for a new psychiatrist!
San
Cymbalta generics are absolutely not interchangeable. I take a Cymbalta generic for lower back pain. I did not tolerate the generic from Brekenridge (sp). It quickly did not assist with pain. It created a despondent depression and erratic behavior for the days on it and did not resolve until I restarted Citron Pharma LLC version. It may have been simply withdrawal from the Citron manufacturer brand. Now, new insurance, and I am (crossing fingers) trying another manufacturer.
I truly wish I never started it.
Jan
Lilly Cymbalta was dropped from my insurance formulary this year. I have always experienced increased physical agitation when taking the generic “Duloxetine.” It’s as if I have had 30 cups of coffee or something. It’s really uncomfortable and makes life miserable. People need to realize that generics are copies of the name brand medication – they are not identical. Close, but no cigar. I need this medication for my depression, and I’m having to cough up the $250+ per month now. At least my physician didn’t blow me off and wrote a new script for name brand. Don’t let your medical provider blow you off saying that you are imagining the problem. Advocate for yourself.
April
I have been taking Cymbalta generic for a few years now. At first they were alternating my generic from month to month, and I felt like I was on a crazy roller coaster of withdrawal and normal. I finally made them stop switching and stuck to the Camber generic. I get 90 pills at a time from Express Scripts. This batch this time seems off. I have been so down and feeling like my anxiety is up again, and I feel like I’m going through withdrawal.
It’s so frustrating. My doctor just thinks I’m losing it, but I can tell that something is off. It’s a shame that they don’t listen to us tell them that although the generics may contain the same main ingredient, the way they deliver is quite different. Now I am wondering if I got a bad batch, but have no way of telling, and I have a 90day dose of this stuff, so I am thinking I have to suffer for 3 months.
Peter
I’ve been on Cymbalta for well over 20 years for depression. Any time I’ve been put on the generic it is as if I am going into withdrawal, with brain fog and sometimes brain zapping. This has happened on 2 separate occasions. I will say that some insurance companies will allow your doctor to specify the use of the name brand . . . though in my case, it costs me more but my sanity is worth it.
VALERIE
I tried a generic from a big chain pharmacy, and it was no good. Another brand of generic from another big chain pharmacy works. All generics aren’t created equal. Who says so? My body knows the difference. The difference is between no pain and pain.
Christopher
I had the same problem with the Duloxetine 60mg from Rising pharmacuetical in India. Felt like I was withdrawing from the drug, HA, dizziness, terrible anxiety and negativity and dark thoughts. I am a surgeon, and lucky this medication problem didnt result in an injured patient. Immediatly back to normal when I got the dose from Breckenridge pharmaceutical. Never taking the Rising version again.
Becky
I couldn’t tolerate the generic. I had blinding migraines within 2 hours of taking it. I am lucky to get the brand name, but the pharmacy charges $800 for 1 month and my insurance covers all but $150. So, I blow $150 (US) a month on this to save my sanity
Gael
Missouri
I’ve been on Duloxetine for about 18 months. However I am noticing quite a bit of confusion and brain fog – this is the only medication apart from a blood pressure drug. Has anyone experienced this?
Ralph
Ohio
I have been on Duloxetine 30 MG for a week for foot pain and now I cannot climax.
I want to know if this will subside after a month or so? After reading all of these comments, I don’t believe it will. Can anyone give me some advise?
kelly
sacramento
my husband took this drug and he ended up with severe pain in both legs and can barely walk, he could no longer maintain a coherent conversation, he was in and out of conscousness, he has shock waves in his head, he had coughing fits and was passing out, he has lost is short term memory, he had a rash and skin sensitivity, had 4 visits to the emerengcy room, and because is is a generic drug, I cant find a lawyer to help with a law suit. I finally figured out myself what was going on when he started to get face ticks and his hands started jerking. He is weaning himself off the medication now… I pray that nothing is permanent. He is missing way too much work and has had to drop out of school while he attempts to recover.
Lori
East Sussex
I have taken 90 mg of Duloxetine and it worked well with mood regulation and fibromyalgia pain for 10 months…I started to get a grip on my life…. I have now been prescribed the generic, Depalta..I am 2 weeks in and am in pain and crying..The Uk doctors are saying Depalta is the same and its cheaper…I am not in a good place and cannot find anything on this new depalta version
Mel
Missouri
Well, I just got given a prescription for the Generic version Of Cymbalta 30 caps, Duloxetine 30mg. For pain? I do not understand how something that is for depression can even help me out with the pain I am having. I do not want to take anything that will change my moods or make me want to kill myself and or all the other side effects! And now I am too afraid to even try any of the pills after reading all of these comments! I mean who would not be?
I need help for my legs because I was down for 2 years with no movement at all besides bathroom visits. Plus, I have lymphedema and arthritis. This is just crazy! LoL. All this mess now about pain pills is really messing up people who really need them! It was not my fault someone’s kids stole their parents’ meds. Or Doctors who left people on them longer than needed and so on. I need help with Pain! Not depression, that also seems not to work and can make you crazy!!! I need to get up and moving and get my muscles going and lose weight. I get so far and then have to stop and sit down for days.
I am not looking for pain pills forever, just for a couple months to help me get past that hump where it hurts so badly you cant do it no more. Sorry, this is just ridiculous! I should have known when my Doc gave me the scrip that it would have to do with all this crazy stuff! I will just keep trying and hope no one else has to go through this much pain just to try to get back a semi normal life !!! Sorry to you all for all the problems with this generic.
Sue
NC
I’ve been taking Cymbalta for panic disorder (since age 7) and depression. It works GREAT. I tried a generic (didn’t notice which one) which was like a sugar pill for me. It was nice to pay a LOT less so wanted it to work. Not only did not help went through sudden withdrawal from Cymbalta. When I finally got the approval – and paid the $180, I got relief two hours after taking name brand. With Cymbalta I have a full life. Without it, I am barely functional.
Sandy A. P.
CO
I have taken duloxetine for three years at 40 mg a day, and if I am taking it I feel normal, and in less pain. I take it for a work injury to my low back and neck that caused me to lose my job because my injury failed to improve. Anyway, I have taken two different colored capsules: one is green, and one is blue and white. Both of those gave relief.
The last time I filled it, it was a two-tone pink capsule. After two days I felt like my bones were on fire; my migraines felt like ice picks in both eyes; and even the migraine meds did not help much. After four days I was having brain blanks, dizziness, and just thinking I was losing my mind. I called my pharmacy, and they did not have answers. I looked up the pink pill form and found nothing. I finally called to get the script refilled at a different pharmacy because the pink pills could not be identified, and I knew they weren’t working! Just today I got the new pills. They are blue and white. I showed the pink ones to the pharmacist, and she even said she couldn’t identify the manufacturer, but thought they were a generic duloxetine. I think it was a sugar pill or fake. I am so upset this happened.
I know someone who committed suicide after taking cymbalta and tried to get off twice. I am thinking I am going to have to take this forever, but if it makes me feel normal, it’s worth it to me.
Anna
San leandro, ca
Hi, Sue,
Thank you for this. The generic barely works for me but I have no other option since I can’t afford the brand name. I hope to become functional enough to get a job that will help pay for brand name. Some people like us are just more sensitive to medications especially when you’re dealing with head meds.
KP
USA
Yes, Same Problem. Teva worked for me, but the version made from India is not
Trudy
Calgary Canada
My pharmacist gave me duloxetine by Sandoz which made me ache and hurt all over as I take it for back pain and fibromyalgia. I am certain this was not good.
I stopped taking it after four days of the same issue and am now taking the brand name and there is certainly a difference. Any patients that experience this type of issue should report it ASAP.
Bev
California
The problem with generic Cymbalta for me, is the inert ingredients. First, I am allergic to FDC red #40 and also yellows #6 and #30. Since I have Irritable Bowel syndrome I also have problems with some generics causing me intestinal cramping. The DailyMed website (https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/) lists all the versions of duloxetine currently on the market and their inert ingredients. You can compare versions to figure out what ingredient may be giving you a problem.
Teresa
Houston
I’ve been on 60mg cymbalta for 10yrs – brand for 5yrs then generic since 2014. It was prescribed for depression and anxiety during a time when I couldn’t cope with some events that had happened and it really did make me feel better. But when I had to switch to generic it ‘stopped ‘working’. There were no obvious physical side effects but my outlook changed. It was gradual but within a year I stopped working out, quit my job, slept all day and became really apathetic about life. I’m really starting to think switching to generic had something to do with it because I’ve been down before but this is different. I don’t feel sad or angry but some part of me is gone. Weird because I feel more compassion and empathy for other people than I used to and I’m still really funny(I am funny af)but I have to force myself to do anything.
My pharmacy gave me a different generic last refill and on the third day my ears started ringing everything went black heart palpitations nausea and I had to lay on the floor where I was for about four hours. So I started weaning from 60 to 30 for a month then 20 for about two weeks…I felt perfectly fine! then I forgot to take one week ago so just stopped but third day last Saturday ughhhhh and worse Sunday so started on 20 and going to take it slower. I found this site and all of you and I never knew!!! I’ve had all kinds of unexplained physical problems too starting arnd same time I lost my mojo but never considered Cymbalta as the culprit. Until recently.
I believe Cymbalta is toxic and over prescribed and there’s no exit plan once it’s done its magic (if it doesn’t kill you first) but it did help me in the beginning.
Thank you for being here and good luck to all of you!!!!
Clee
Texas
On my last refill for my Duloxatine (which was green) I noticed it was now blue and white. I thought nothing of it until I began to feel about 6 weeks later that my thought processes were significantly different. I felt sad ALL the time. I didn’t want to face the day upon waking up in the morning. I just felt like I had no thoughts in my head. This went on for about 3 month and was getting worse and worse and on my last scheduled visit to my M.D. I mentioned this to him and asked if it was just my imagination. No…it is likely NOT your imagination. He said he has patients who say the exact same thing. He said that drug companies change the formula AND the manufacturer (to save money) all the while making more money, and all you are getting is a sugar pill. He said this is very likely what has happened to Duloxatine …so he put me on Pristiq. I’m doing okay now and I’m trying to get back to the old me again. I’ve only been on it for about 2 months. I take it at night because it makes me drowsy if I take it during the day.
I think it’s horrible that these companies play with people’s well-being the way they do. As it is, they charge very high prices for our meds and then they rub salt into the wound by cheating us with the necessary ingredients to keep us stable. BUT, they make THEIR money at our expense!!!
Joleen
Iowa
My insurance company also dictates that I can no longer take the Original Cymbalta.
4 years ago, my insurance switch me to the generic duloxetine. I’m all about saving money, so I tried it. A couple weeks in I started feeling miserable, moody, crying, depressed. So my doctor wrote he script as DAW -Original only no generics. I was fine things went back to normal, mood in check and pain in check. This Jan 2018, my insurance company AGAIN dictated that I can no longer take Cymbalta since a generic was available. Having tried the generic before with NO SUCCESS, I talked with my Dr. and she sent the insurance company a letter stating the generic does not work for me and I need to take the Original Cymbalta.
My insurance still denies my script. I was actually told by an insurance agency I was screwed..SO TRUE. In the hopes after a few years time, the Generic MIGHT work for me.. I started it again. I’m right back where i was last time. I’ve been so down, lost focus, cant remember things, and my nerve pain is back with due diligence. Where can I turn. does anyone have a drug that can be substituted for Cymbalta?
John
San Francisco
Was taking cymbalta for 4 years. Recently, I was given a generic and didn’t think twice about it. I spent a month with extreme symptoms, and finally when I started getting a headache that would last for days, I went back and checked on the medication and realized it must be form this CHINESE SOLCO BRAND!! Shame on Walgreens as well for even stocking it.
Susan H.
Colorado
I have been taking Cymbalta for years, and I just switched pharmacies on 03/16. I have been in more pain, crying at the drop of a hat; I’m angry at the world; when I get up I get dizzy, and my tachycardia takes off; my arms, legs and hands feels weak.
I have been crying all day then it dawned on me that I am taking a generic for Cymbalta. So I called the pharmacist, and they told me to wait and see if it turns around in a few days. I sent a message to my primary care physician and explained to her what is happening. My body is very sensitive when it comes to drugs, and when you are messing around with someone’s chemistry like that you need to be certain that it’s the right drug. The pain I’m having is intense tonight. I hope I don’t have to fight the insurance company over this.
amanda
Dallas tx
A lot of the generics for this drug cause high blood pressure, which is probably why you got the head aches. I got them too and found my blood pressure in the triple digits. It was awful.
Thomas
CT
No problems whatsoever in using the generic, FWIW
Tina
Arizona
Report this at http://www.fda.gov/medwatch If we don’t nothing will get done about it.
Ruby
San Antonio Texas
I just located this site. I am taking generic Cymbalta manufactured by Solco
Who can I call to report a serious almost fatal problem? Help this is urgent.
Terry Graedon
MedWatch: https://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/default.htm
Snooks
Oklahoma
II
I was also changed to Solco. They are bad news. I haven’t contacted my pharmacist but am doing so today. I don’t remember the other generic but was much better. My Dr. Wrote a new script for real Cymbalta only. Can hardly wait to get them. These generics so bad should b taken off the market. Maybe the CEOs of these co. Should have to get sick & take them. They might look into it more seriously.
Karen S.
NC
I took my first pill this morning of Duloxetine DR. It is scary reading this. What serious or almost fatal problems happened?
Thanks for speaking up, you don’t know how many people this might help!
Leigh
Atl
I agree, Karen. I am thankful and would like to know as well. I hate these antidepressants and I always get generic. I was prescribed Duloxetine (DR 30 mg) by Solco as well. It’s in the bottle waiting for me to take it (or to not take it).
Bill
Chicago
I have been taking generic CYMBALTA for years for depression. I has always been effective. In fact, my prescrition is for 60mg which I cut to 30 mg to save money by splitting into a second capsule. All of the generics I have used have had the same color capsule (green and blue) A couple months ago I received 60 mg Duloxetine from Ajanta, a company based in India of all places. The prescription was filled through Walgreens/Prime Mail. The first thing I noticed is the color is completely different. When splitting them, it doesn’t appear that they had the same volume of tiny, white, spherical pills inside. After a few weeks, of taking them I noticed an increase in overall pain in my body and a return of symptoms of depression. I doubled up my dose to the full 60mg Ajanta pill without much relief. I have even had a return of some of the symptoms I’ve experienced after missing a day of the medication. As I type this I realize I have to find a way to get back to my original form of Duloxetine if I am to continue living my life symptom free.
Hope
New Jersey
I understand TEVA is no longer supplying Duloxetine. I also see so many complaints from people whose generic brands have been changed and the medications are all different, causing major side effects. Is there anything we can do? Who do we notify? And, I think if someone can start a petition and pull together we will all be better off. I apologize I do not know how to start a petition.
Amanda
Dallas TX
Hope
You were taking the certified generic? It sounds like before the switch. They no longer make the certified generic, unfortunately.
Kim
MO
Has anyone tried Solco mgr. of duloxine?
Meg
New york
Yes, I picked up my prescription January 9 and noticed the manufacturer had changed and the pill looked different . I really didn’t think much of it I had a lot on my plate at the time. Then I began with daily migraines , every single day that I took the Cymbalta (solco) I went away for the weekend and I have my weekend medicine kit that had the old Cymbalta manufacturer pill (citron) I had no headache.
Back home back on the solco, brand migraines returned. Thank goodness I have an amazing pharmacist he is getting me my old brand back taking back the old pills and getting me my old manufacturer Med. I have celiac disease he suspects it may have been something in the filler in the SOLCO brand.
Bev
California
Check the inert ingredients of both versions at https://dailymed.nlm.nih.gov/dailymed/.
I did fine with Citron’s version, but horrible with Camber.
By process of elimination you can narrow down what versions may work for you and what won’t.
Ann
Michigan
Both my husband and I take duloxitine 60 mg. We use to take a burgundy and pinkish colored pill. A few months ago I noticed our pills were blue and white and manufactured by Solco Healthcare in China. Both of us have noticed a change in our moods since taking the Solco brand. Both of us have been overly tired, had gas, bloating, and frantic dreams. I’ve contacted my pharmacist and doctor to tell them that something is not right.
Diesel
Canada
I had taken Cymbalta 30 once daily and after changing to a generic noticed it didn’t work as well. My Doctor increased my dosage to 2 x 30 daily. It helped. Now I recieved Apo-Duloxetine generic and found myself going through withdraw symptoms. I suspected poor quality and switch to a different brand. I opened 1 of each brand and found small clumps on the Apo brand and small beads in the other. I returned the Apo-Duloxetine to the drug store to complain. Nothing has happen other the owners of Apotex were found hanging in their basement. Weird
Sandy
CO
Were these the pink and pale pink color? I had them subbed one time, and they were like taking nothing at all! I gave up and got a refill at a different pharmacy, and now I am scared because they are the blue and white and they say they come from China? What is going on?
Lucinda
California
I have been taking generic cymbalta for years from the Teva company, and it has worked great for me. I was recently switched by my pharmacy to a generic manufactured by a company in India called Ajanta. I am having upset stomach and face swelling within 2 days of taking. Hoping the pharmacy will switch back.
Kelly
Oregon
About 5 years ago I started Cymbalta name brand and it worked really well for anxiety and pain in my shoulder. Then I didn’t have to take it for several years. I started having anxiety again while going through menopause and other things. The doctor gave me Duloxetine CIT.
From the day I started it my anxiety was worse and couldn’t sleep. After about 1 month I had some old Cymbalta in my cupboard and was curious what it would do. The day I took Cymbalta name brand I felt better and could sleep and felt like myself again. Then I would go back to Duloxetine and feel bad. I would take a Cymbalta and feel good.
Totally confirmed this to me that there is something in the generic that I don’t do well with. Maybe fillers or inactive ingredients. Not sure. I asked my doctor for The real Cymbalta. Hoping to get it soon.
Diesel
Canada
I have had a simular experience with Generic Cymbalta( Apo-Duloxetine).
It seemed to be nothing compared to brand name drug. I had used the generic for a month and had withdraw symptoms.THE DRUG MAY HAVE BEEN TAMPERED WITH OR SUPPLIED THAT WAY. I tried a different brand and compared the contents. The Apo brand was small clumps the other band was small beads. I returned what I had to the drug store and complained. Nothing was done. So I complained to my doctor and it’s no substitution Rx but I had tried a Sandos generic that worked. But What a rippoff. Good thing I’m easy going and had experience the withdraw of taking Lyrica . A unstable person would react poorly for sure.
Barbara D.
Jefferson County, Missouri
I, as well, keep getting the run-around.
Darlene
New Brunswick Canada
My insurance won’t cover the cymbalta .. day 3 on the generic brand and I’m a bomb waiting to explode!!! Every part of my body hurts I’m feeling anxious and chest pains and due for my period any day is not helping !! There has to be another solution to our problem!! I’ve been unemployed since May and cannot afford the cymbalta !! What are they doing to us ?? Using us as their lab rats !!!
Gigi
USA
I have been taking a generic Cymbalta for years which was produced by a company named Citron. I recently filled my RX on 11/7/17. My pharmacy has changed to a different supplier, Teva. I have not felt well for a couple of weeks due to a cold so it took me awhile to figure out what is happening. I’m in withdrawal. This medicine is not working! I am dizzy, lethargic, having headaches and having tingling in my face. I am also experiencing rapid cycling. My pharmacist has a two week supply of the original brand he will give me to try, I know it will help, I just wish I had put two and two together sooner.
Doreen
NJ
Oh my goodness! I just went through the same exact thing with the same two medications! I have been taking Cymbalta from Citron for years and I was given the Teva brand this last prescription. Not thinking much of the change I decided to try it and I have been in so much pain and depressed for the past 2 weeks! Luckily I spoke to my pharmacist and she switched me back to the Citron brand. Hard to believe the same medication from two different companies can be so different!
Rita Levet
Louisiana
Teva brand of generic Cymbalta brought me down in two weeks. Will never take it again. I have been taking Citron Pharma generic, and it continues to work well. Besides, the brand-name capsule was twice as big!!!
Barbara
Texas
The same thing happened to me. I have taken the generic of Cymbalta manufactured by Teva since 2008. I take 120 mg for fibromyalgia. Walgreen’s suddenly changed the manufacture to Solco. Told me was the same. The capsules were smaller. After 2 days I went into withdrawal with the shakes and fibromyalgia worst than ever! Called Walgreen’s and said I was taking the Solco meds back and I wanted Teva back. As soon as I had taken 2 days of my old meds, I improved 100%. I also made sure that no substitutions got put in my record.
Lisa
TN
I am reading all comments and agree. I have a written prescription in my purse, just in case I locate a pharmacy I can find the original Cymbalta from.
But, it isn’t looking possible. So, what is the solution? How do we get back the original brand of Cymbalta?? And our insurance should pay for original, because It does work!!! Very frustrating!!!!!!!
Mike
Washington
My wife had good results with the 60 mg from Eli Lilly but the first generic (don’t know the manufacturer) did not work, went back on original. Insurance demanded a generic so we ended up with 60 mg manufactured by Citron, worked great. Last refill was switched to Teva, 2 weeks of hell before we realized it wasn’t working. 2nd pill of Citron, back to normal.
Sherrill
Utah
I am so glad that I am not alone in knowing that the generic Cymbalta doesn’t work. This is the second time I’ve tried the generic in 6 years. I was hoping this time it would work since it’s been a few years from the last time I tried it. I’m going to have to pay the $240.00 for Cymbalta, because I can’t go on like this, I’m so miserable. But it’s such a relief knowing it’s not all in my head.
Bernie
Montana
Agree fully on the ineffectiveness of generic Cymbalta. Being a thyroid replacement patient as well, I face the same problems with those drugs. The combined possibilities of several generics at once is not worth the savings to me but I can afford the exorbitant prices begrudgingly.
Why don’t the prices of the name brand drugs come down when the generics appear? Could it be that continuing to profit via the folks that recognize the difference is fostered by the lack of generic success. If they work so well, why would anyone pay the NBO price?
Kevin P
Colorado
Was prescribed duloxetine for nerve pain. After just five doses 20 mg I had severe reactions. My entire body is in pain, a rash on my neck and head, my mouth is completely raw as is my throat. This is very scary as I am a stage 4 cancer patient.
I stopped taking it when I realized that it was causing my issues. I cannot eat can only drink water and I am not sure what can be done about it. I have been unable to find any info about this reaction and am very concerned about my health. Has any one experienced any thing like this?
Jacqueline
New York State
I just found this site. I feel horrible to read that so many others are going through the same thing that I am. But at least I now know that I am not alone.
I have been on Cymbalta for years, and it has worked beautifully for my depression and Fibromyalgia. But in May of 2017 I began feeling very depressed with body aches, and it just got worse. I then realized that my pharmacy changed from the generic Duloxetine made by Apotex, which worked really well for me, to another generic made by Teva, which does not work at all. My doctor signed paper work for me to get the name brand Cymbalta, but I couldn’t afford the $240.00 price, and that was after my insurance company dropped it to a lower tier. I ended up spending the summer with severe depression and thoughts of suicide while working with my doctor trying to find another medication that works as well and/or trying to find a pharmacy that distributes the Apotex brand. Neither generic Duloxetine by Teva, which is made in India, or another generic by Breckenridge, work well at all. After spending so many years finding Cymbalta, which works so well for me and so many others, it is very disheartening to find that it is in the hands of the distributors and the pharmacies, who go by the best price; and the drug companies making the generics. None of them seem to care as to how much their poorly made products are hurting the lives of the people who depend on these medications.
Grace
Staten Island, NY
Sorry but Teva is made in Israel. I never did try it for Cymbalta but I always request it for baclofen and Clonazepam. No other generic has worked for me. As far as the Cymbalta yes I have had to pay way too much for the brand name and I take 90 mg a day for fibromyalgia and many other elements. None of the generics Work for me at all.
Teresa
McDonough, GA
I have been on Cymbalta for about 6 or 7 years for fibromyaglia. The generic duloxetine does nothing for me. I am in terrible pain and nothing seems to help. Eli Lilly at one time was supplying name brand Cymbalta to Prasco Labs and being sold as a generic.
When I finally realized what was going on, I called Eli Lilly for help. They gave me their information for Eli Lilly helps and another contact, but I am on Medicare and no coupons or other programs will help with the cost. Something is not right with these generic manufacturers!!!!!! I can’t believe the FDA will not do anything about these poorly made generics and letting people suffer because of it.
Why do we get drugs from countries such as India????? GET REAL PEOPLE, because I am totally outraged and in pain!!!!
Dianne S
Levittown, PA
we should file a class action lawsuit against insurance companies and pharma benefit cos. AND THE FDA for tiering us out of Brand CNS.
psychiatric medications. The brain is the most complex part of the body. Most every generic CNS destabilizes and causes unacceptable human suffering.
Pharmacies must do their due diligence to help their customers maintain stability by providing those generics that work for them. I strongly believe no CNS brand medication should be unaffordable for those afflicted with mental illness. There is no such thing as an effective CNS generic.
MKACZ
Minnesota
Totally agree–a class-actionlawsuit is needed. The generic does not work the same way as the name brand Cymbalta for fibromyalgia. I have to argue this each and every year. I literally just told the insurance company they can treat me for opioid addiction in a year, if they won’t cover this, as it does not help my pain.
Car
Michigan
Omg when I got my script from Walgreens I could not believe they where from China Solco is the distributor I wouldn’t take them. Plus was telling friends about America is getting generics from India China
It’s just terrible and FDA should close their doors Not doing there jobs we are the governments ginie pigs HELP FDA should be accountable for approving pills and food that is slowly killing us.
Serena
SC
I am concerned that my doctor choose this medication for depression. I do not have any pain issues. Many years ago, I had success with generic Prozac. I am now wondering why she did not try that. SSRIs have helped me in the past, just seems that after being on them for several years, they stop working. I have been off antidepressants for a year. I have only been on Duloxetine 30 mg for 4 days. I do not know the generic vendor, how do you find this out? I have noticed I am slightly off balance (I am not usually). I am slightly aware of my heart in my chest.
Chris
Washington
I want to thank each and every one of you for taking the time to post your issues with the generic cymbalta on this site. I have learned so much from the information you’ve all provided – what generic brands are good and bad, what countries are not good to get them from and what can be done about all of this. My husband was stabilized on cymbalta for many years for depression and OCD. Then they switched him to generics.
Every once in while he have problems for about a week, saying it felt like he didn’t take his meds. Then last month he just spiraled. Headaches, raging, suicidal thoughts, racing thoughts, insomnia, unable to eat, racing heart and just kept telling me that something was very wrong. Doctor visits, many tests, then they upped his dose, he did better then, bam spiraled again. After reading all your posts I looked at the rx bottle – brand name was CITRON (a brand mentioned here that was bad), asked our pharmacist about the company – made in India (a country mentioned here that was bad).
Our pharmacist found a pharmacy that had generics made in Spain, he started those today while we wait for the brand name we ordered from Canada for $80 a month, because our copay through the insurance for cymbalta which is $650 a month after the doctor told them he had to have the brand name. They always find a way out of it. Tess posted that she contacted the FDA and filed a report – so I did that too. It was quick and easy and I realized that is what will make a difference. If we flood the FDA with reports, they will have to do something – they count on people just giving up. We really can make a difference in this horrible situation.
These generic companies know only a few will complain through the right channels, they make bad drugs BECAUSE THEY CAN. I have read literally hundreds of heart breaking posts on different sites about all different kinds of generic drugs not working and what is the FDA doing about it? Not much and that is what they are there for, it’s their job!
Anyway, thank you again, you all have helped us through a hard time. I wish you well through all of this. Here is the link if you’d like to file a report with the FDA – I did, and I will EVERYTIME I run into a problem with any/all generic drugs. https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/medwatch/index.cfm?action=consumer.reporting1
Alice
Richmond, Va
I have taken Cymbalta for chronic migraines for years and worked like a charm until they gave me the generic and the migraines came back so bad that they thought I had a brain tumor!!!!!! Had a scan brain was good and I told Doctors it was the generic Cymbalta. Went back to Brand and migraines were gone.
Wendy Capobianco
NC
I am so sorry to hear all these negative comments, but glad to know I’m not alone. They try and tell us that the generic is the same. I also have seizure disorder and have been taken dilantin since I was 17. Then they came out with generic and people started having seizures. So it was ordered by someone, I don’t know who that if you started on brand name you cannot be switched to generic. So I still take brand name. Over 40 years. But over and over we are told the generics are the same. I started on Cymbalta for fibromyalaga & restless leg syndrome. At some time I was switched to the generic. My life became a living hell. I thought it was age , neuropathy in my feet. But I kept falling from a standing position. I’m naturally clumsy. Walke,r cane didn’t help. It was like I had vertigo. Wild falls. the worst I hit my cheek on the dresser knob busting it open then fell to the floor were my right eye hit the floor. I could see the grain of the wood floor getting closer. I fractured my orbital bone and shoved my eye back a bit into my head. But you’ll be happy to know my glasses didn’t break. I needed 7 stitched had double vision then blurry and now it’s better. still swollen and numb under eye but all black and blue is gone. I have so many black and blues it’s pathetic. Sad thing is doctor is mad I stopped taking cymbalta and doesn’t believe my falling has stopped. I know you shouldn’t stop medicine like that but when I saw the side effect I had no choice. Also very vivid dreams. None of it since I stopped. Friends say I’m sounding like me again. I suffered so much from this.
Annabel
NC
I started taking Cymbalta in 2001, for severe depression. It kept me functional. A couple of years ago I was forced to switch over to the generic, presumably made in different labs depending on where I filled the Rx. None of them were working well, so my psychiatrist suggested I double the dose, which I did, and I was OK. But now even a double dose doesn’t work, presumably because Blue Cross of NC switched from Express Scripts to CareMark in 2017, and “Care” ha Mark must have found an even cheaper manufacturer. This one is Lupin in Goa, India. This generic is absolutely worthless.
CareMark says they will “cover” the brand if my psychiatrist jumps through a million flaming hoops, but even then it would cost me $250 month! Some coverage. Guess they’re hoping all of us depressives will just kill ourselves, and they won’t have to deal with us. It’s extraordinary to live in a country where criminal negligence is the order of the day.
Phyllis
Pennsylvania
I am saddened by all the suffering inferior generics have caused (cymbalta). I’ve been on CYMBALTA for many years – more than 10 – & when the generic was made available, I began getting that. A few months after beginning the generic, I saw my Psychiatrist for a med-check. I said that I wasn’t feeling as “pulled together” as I had been, but didn’t really know why.
This Doc became suspicious & asked if I was now receiving a generic. He had already identified several patients who had experienced setbacks because of the generic substitution.
For years, I received brand Cymbalta & paid a bit more for it – gladly.
Now, I’ve changed Insurance & the new provider wouldn’t cover brand Cymbalta at all. Period. The cost for a 30-day supply would be approximately $500 @ my local Pharmacy.
After my Pharmacy offered to initiate a Pre-authorization & my family Doc explained the problem – this company will now cover about half of the $500, rather than none of it!
I just picked up a 30-day supply of Cymbalta 60mg and paid over $270 for it. I am happy to be starting back on brand Cymbalta after using generic for 3 weeks & feeling awful.
However – I cannot continue paying this much monthly, so I will be buying my Lilly brand name CYMBALTA from outside the US because I REFUSE TO BE VICTIMIZED by selfish corporations who do not care about quality. I refuse to give in and trade my well-being (physical & emotional), for the sake of saving an Insurance Co. some $$.
As long as there’s a way to circumvent their arbitrary rules – I will find it! This issue is REAL! Don’t sacrifice your physical or mental well-being to save an Insurance Co. some cash. Look out for yourselves & make sure you at least try to get what you need to feel your best.
Barbara
The Labs in India have been investigate by the FDA. Several violations were found. I believe to save manufacturing costs these labs have decreased the potency of the 60 mg capsules! At our expense. All these pharmacy reps are pushing bad medicine.
Ellen Lockheart
AB
I was prescribed Cymbalta to help treat my depression, after the province decided to cut costs I was switched over to a generic which forced me into a suicidal depression! the generics themselves are second rate garbage and I refuse to take them for the simple fact that I value my existence and would rather cope with debilitating depression which leaves me bedridden for three days at a time than risk the suicidal grade depression the generics caused me. honestly I stopped my meds without a doctor because I couldn’t afford another trip to the psychiatric unit or the resulting homelessness that typically follows a month stay.
Michelle
NC
I have been looking for a forum like this to try to sort out which generics don’t work and which may work. A lot of people have stated that the generic did not work, but few have mentioned the generic manufacturer. I think it would be in all of our best interests to share your reason using Cymbalta (depression, fibromyalgia, etc.), what generic manufacturer, and if the generic helped or not.
With so many of us being forced to generics we have to find something that works and I’m hoping we can figure it out because the FDA, doctors, and pharmacists don’t seem to have a clue. I have used brand Cymbalta for 5+ years for fibromyalgia. Used generic from TEVA and it was terrible.
Norm
SC
Interestingly, I found that TEVA’s generic wasn’t bad. For me, Prasco generic really sucked.
Mary R.
U.S.
I have lots of pain from postherpetic neuralgia from having had shingles. I have tried lots of pain medications, nothing has helped with the pain. I was put on Deloxetine about twenty days ago. I seem to have more pain now. Has anyone else had this experience. I have never tried the Cymbalta because of lack of funds. Would appreciate any feedback.
David
TN
I got switched from the Cymbalta brand to the generic twice. I pulled over on the side of the road and begged her and said “Call and order me the real thing.” I just got put on the generic again a few weeks ago. It does not work. I cannot sleep, have headaches, upset stomach and have been real jittery. Not the same as the original Cymbalta.
David
Memphis
Been on Cymbalta for 7-8 yrs, and pharmacy made me go to generic because my health care did not cover it. Now I have night sweats, headaches and blurred vision. Don’t buy the generic.
Kim
MO
I too have been switched to a generic duloxetine. It is by Teva. And it is awful. I feel liked I am going through a crisis with all the emotional bs I am feeling. Along with aches, pains, etc. I am wondering if there is a better generic out there. I read Prasco made authorized generic duloxetine at one time. Now I believe they carry plain generic duloxetine. Has anyone had any luck with a generic duloxetine and if so who is the manufacturer?
Kayla
Spartanburg, SC
I am having the exact same issue however mine is the opposite. I was on Teva manufacturer and is worked great for me! Loved my life. Now, I am on Prasco and I am having major issues and the pharmacy says my insurance will not cover them to order the Teva for me because this Prasco is covered. A pharmacist friend told me that there can be 20% difference in the capsule or within the capsule itself and your body may be reacting differently or not releasing it at the same time your body is used to.
So, maybe you will be ok with the Prasco. It is crazy that you find a drug that works and then the generic doesn’t and it is like “Well I’m sorry to hear that.” Also lets say you went to the doctor and you were put on Cymbalta and got the generic Teva…you would go back to your doctor and say it is not working for you when in reality the true Cymbalta may work but you are not getting the full deal! It is crazy!
Norm
SC
It’s totally crazy. The whole mental health system is so behind. Now, not only do we have to be careful about which medications we take, but we have to consider their generic forms as well. WE’RE NOT SCIENTISTS HERE! Load of crap…
Mary
Windsor, ON
With so many issues with the generic brand, why is it still out there? I was switched recently by my insurance company, but I’m afraid to try it with all the problems people are having. Depression is not something drug companies should be ‘experimenting’ with. Insurance companies don’t realize the ripple affect. If you’re not doing well on generic, you should be allowed back on the name brand and have it covered. Could your family physician / psychiatrist write a letter to your insurance company explaining why generic is not tolerated?
Bri
Nevada
Hi- I was on brand name Cymbalta 60mg for several years and could no longer afford the 300.00. After checking several of the pharmacy’s for a generic manufacturer I found one that actually works better for me than the others. There was a slight-moderate improvement from the other generics that are on the market and took several months to adjust to. I found that my CVS Pharmacy has the Apotex Inc. On the label it reads -Manufactured by Apotex Toronto Ontario Canada M9L1T9 Manufactured for Apotex Corp Weston Florida 33326. PS- I do not order any of my RX’S from Canada.
jo
TN
I have been on cymbalta for almost 3 years for nerve pain. I have gained weight and cannot lose it. THE GENERIC does not control the pain, kind of keeps it at bay at best. Insurance will not cover brand and it is unaffordable why is something not being done when there is so many issues with this generic. my brand has been citron
Kathy
68339
I’ve been taking generic Cymbalta 30mg, TID for the last 4 months. And before that, I had been taking Cymbalta 30mg daily for at least the last 8 years. I can also tell you that the generic LUPI (Lupin) brand has always worked wonderfully to control my depression and pain.
However, when I got my last Cymbalta script refilled, my pharmacist had switched out the manufacture from LUPI (Lupin) brand to that of the ‘CAMB’ (Camber) brand. Now then, I cannot even begin to tell you how disappointed I am with the generic Cymbalta made by Camber.
Trust me folks, Camber pharmaceutical needs to head back to the drawing board when it comes to making CORRECT generic Cymbalta! The ‘Camber’ brand will not only offer them ZERO relief from depression, but this worthless medication could even end up giving them an additional mild headache as well. (Sheesh)
And yes, I’ve already informed my pharmacist about my feelings towards Camber brand Cymbalta. He now clearly understands to never, EVER, fill my Cymbalta script using the Camber brand again. Nuff said…
Charis
I have never been on the brand name of cymbalta. Been on the generic for a few years. Now I know why I have had increased anxiety that my dr looks at me like I’m crazy. Plus the weight loss I’ve suffered is extreme. Didn’t know there was a difference in the two. Thank you for the information
Norm
This is so weird. I took the Lupin generic for Pristiq and it was horrible. I wonder if we’re all affected differently not only by the original drugs, but their generic alternatives as well! It’s like a never-ending maze.
Donna
Montreal
I have been on Cymbalta since it became available several years ago (2010, I think). It worked very well for my chronic depression (bouts of severe depression), as well as chronic pain (fibromyalgia). On changing to the generic 2 1/2 months ago, I first realized that my appetite had returned (a positive side effect after years of not enjoying food). Soon after when struggling with worsening joint pain, I realized that the timing was consistent with the change to the generic. I am going to retry the Cymbalta and if my pain improves, I will ask my doctor to write “no substitutes” on my prescription so that my insurance company will not penalize me. Frankly I am surprised — I expected the generic to be the same. My depression seems well controlled to date but the pain is very problematic.
Tess
CO
Hi, I actually was doing well on the Brand Cymbalta for depression for years. I had switched to the generic when it came out. Over a period of just shy of 3 years I had various things that I was over time ruling out for what turned into serious problems with the generic.
It was no longer therapeutic and I was becoming more & more depressed. I developed what had the disabling power of migraines or some variety of headaches that made me sick, lay in the dark in my basement.
My primary doc is astute. I was such a mess that I was seeing the headaches and a very high anxiety, as the reason I was struggling with my normally managed depression. I went to an ENT to see if the headaches were from there. I was tried for periods on various types of migraine meds and had failed to get relief. Had an MRI, and more.
I was using sick time from work, I lost some semesters of school as I was working toward a bachelor’s. My marriage was suffering. I wasn’t going out much as my headaches, anxiety and depression worsened, added PTSD, I was (still am) in therapy and doing EMDR). I thought I was going mad!!? Crying, and didn’t feel I could survive like this.
I was looking into all potential things to rule out. Finally I found a group of people when I googled, is anyone having trouble with generic Cymbalta, duloxetine. I wasn’t alone!!
There was a psychiatrist that had a large established practice. When the generics hit the market, he did the usual adjustments for dosages. A minimum of 33% of his clients developed the same blinding headaches, serious anxiety that they they never had on brand, weren’t therapeutic for depression and so on. In the group I joined to share what was happening to us, a client that had been successfully treated for fibromyalgia pain on brand Cymbalta for 11 years. No history of depression, anxiety or headaches. This client was suffering from fibromyalgia pain. Then developed the serious blinding headaches, became deeply clinically depressed, along with high anxiety, sleep disturbances etc., which were all since going on generic duloxetine. There were veterans that for years had been able to function in society that were successful for years on brand Cymbalta. There were suicidal patients and 2 of the vets were back out in the woods. Many suffering people that were alone and those who didn’t know how to get it covered by insurance when they reported to their doctors to prior authorize it for DAW (dispense as written).
The provider has to document the fail on the generic according to what each patient experienced. After having exhausted all else I was sure and went back to my provider to get Cymbalta brand approved. About 3 weeks into being back on Cymbalta brand DAW, the headaches disappeared. I started to return to normal sleep patterns. Then driving down the road, the sun was out and I was enjoying seeing some horses running in a pasture. I smiled & started to experience happiness and moments of joy.
I had gone to the FDA.gov and filled out a form that reports serious adverse effects, serious side effects and when a medication was not therapeutic that had been on the brand. I looked into studies and reports and that the FDA had not been testing for quality, being within the dosage parameters for generics. When the patent and brand only period was up, many manufacturers were approved to make duloxetine. I had gained weight and started being active, lost the 1st 11 lbs. I continued to improve and start seeing my life with more focus, clarity and perception.
Then, I learned that during the three hellish years our marriage had suffered. Signed up for marriage counseling and was working hard. We were married 24 years, together for 26. He said he still loved me. I could see he had reservations that I was really me again. I could see that whoever the horribly sick wife who he didn’t know what to do with did serious damage. Apparently he wanted to see me doing well for awhile and continued to do really great things to show he still loved me and was committed to our life together. He went out of his way to make our Valentine’s Day one of the top 2 ever in 26 years. Made a CD that had songs from concerts we had been too. Jason Mraz “I Won’t Give Up On Love,” Michael Franti, “Life Is Better With You.”
He had meantime been planning to divorce me secretly. His family was like my own family, I have one living sibling. It was my turn to be back in school. He had recently graduated to change his career and had 2 Bachelors and a masters. Then 10 days after Valentine’s Day, he told me he was divorcing me, wouldn’t go to counseling and didn’t love me anymore. While I was on this terrible generic that really injured my mental & physical health, I had lost my marriage, and all of the social and family and support that had become my own. Sold our home which I couldn’t afford. This drug and the collateral damage broke me.
The point is that we must report via the FDA to provide the statistics so that for ourselves, and others who suffered from a drug that want the same, so that we can have what we need in cases that any generic drug is not working for us. They just now, I believe this year, have some budget to check the generics from around the world where they don’t need to meet our standards.
I’m in the medical field. There is more evidence that the generics vary a great deal from manufacturer to manufacturer. This doesn’t mean we don’t use generics where we can. But we can ask to stay with the same manufacturer of a generic med that works for us. There ar more studies all the time. More science and evidence support The bioavailability and inactive ingredients along with the variations of active ingredients there are types of drugs based on what they treat many in specific types of drugs must be in a narrow titration. Cardiac drugs, medications that affect the brain, neurological and mental health treatments, diabetic treatments especially insulins and insulin dependent diabetes, anti-seizure treatments.
I encourage anyone to speak with your providers, read and fill out the FDA medwatch forms with information that support safe medications and protect your health and your loved ones. The general public largely don’t understand mental health and the necessity of the correct treatment. People who stand by their loved ones with cancer don’t have the same beliefs & education to live with their loved ones suffering from PTSD, Depression, Anxiety, OCD, Bipolar depression, etc. Don’t suffer in silence.
Do advocate for yourself.
Sincerely,
Tess
gloria
Alberta
I have been on the generic Cymbalta for a little over a month now. I had been on Cymbalta for years, until my insurance company made the decision to switch me over to Duloxetine! This has been a horrible 5 weeks for me! Constant headaches, rapid weight gain (where my weight had been stable for the past 10 years) blurred vision, withdrawals, high anxiety and an increase in pain levels. I have become a recluse, not seeing anyone (nor wanting to see anyone) nor answering my phone. My anxiety with people in general, is through the roof! I have never had this before in my life! Clearly, this generic Cymbalta is NOT effective. Sadly, it all comes down to money with the government, the insurance companies, and the pharmaceutical giants.
cathy
montreal
I was so relieved to hit this website. I thought I was crazy. After only 2 weeks of being on the generic brand, I started asking myself what was wrong and why I was feeling so bad. Then it hit me, I have been using the generic brand to reduce costs. I decided to google and see if anyone else was having an issue with the generic brand and I hit on here. So glad I did. Clearly the generic brand DOES not work the same as Cymbalta!!!
Michele
hamilton on
My husband has been on Cymbalta for years, he once screwed up and took too many each day, once he figured out he was not to take that dose a day, he was out of pills and stopped taking them, he ended up lost one night not knowing were he was disoriented, crying one minute, wanting to kill someone the next minute.
(he is 50 years old) he ended up at emergency and he was told it was due to the difference of doses. He has now been on the new generic drug for 2 weeks, he is now in the same boat today, pharmacy says this is new so they don’t know if others are having the same issues with the generic brand also. Please if you find your mood changing with the new generic brand see your dr and pharmacy and complain.
Teresa
Paragould AR 72450
I been on cymbalta for years for drepression anxity fibromyalgia. Got the generic brand can’t take so I am paying for name brand cymbalta. Please tell what generic brand works and where I can get it.
Susan Taylor
London, Ontario
I thought I was going crazy again! I said to my husband, something is wrong I am sliding backwards, anxious, crying fits, not wanting to shower and/or go outside. Can’t sleep, weird dreams and the anxiety is back big time. My friend said it sounded like withdrawals.
It just dawned on me that it has been 2 weeks since they switched me to generic, without telling me. When I called the pharmacy to confirm and ask why, they said because my insurance has denied Cymbalta and they have had no complaints about the generic brand at all, said it was even made by the same company that makes Cymbalta.
I was lucky to get an appointment with the doctor today and after a long conversation with my insurance company, was told if I get him to write on the prescription why I need to continue on the name brand, I should be able to restart today. wish me luck. If not I will starve myself to pay for the name brand, better than the alternative.
Scott
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
I’m adding my story to the above. My doctor prescribed Cymbalta for neuropathic pain. I have a bulging disc that causes pain to shoot down my leg. I suffered through the disabling side effects for 8 weeks as I slowly ramped up to 120mg / day. To my amazement, the Cymbalta did exactly what the doctor ordered! With a combination of OTC painkillers and the daily dose, I was able to function and work normally.
As with many others, my insurance provider changed my prescription to generic.
After a couple of weeks on the non-brand, my pain returned, I was tired all the time and felt generally lousy. My work suffered. The effect continued to worsen for another month until I went back to see my doctor. As I described my symptoms, he immediately diagnosed me as being in withdrawal from Cymbalta and wrote a new prescription indicating NO SUBSTITUTIONS.
When I started back on 120mg / day, I began to suffer from the side-effects once again, as my body / brain absorbed the brand name. I had to take 2 weeks off work, as I couldn’t focus or concentrate and all I wanted to do was sleep.
It took 2 weeks being back on the brand name Cymbalta before I began to feel normal again. All tolled, I suffered for 6 weeks (4 unknowingly withdrawing and 2 ramping back up).
Bottom line: This generic is NOT THE SAME as the brand name. Please be careful with it.
Cynicroute
Canada
I recently started on generic Cymbalta (duloxetine) after being stable on Cymbalta over 7 years for severe clinical depression. The generic does NOT work, essentially, at all. Health Canada should really look into generics.
My drug plan won’t cover the brand name stuff anymore and I can’t afford $250 for a 3 month supply. I don’t know anyone that could afford that.
Lorelei
Dallas
Been on brand name Cymbalta for years. Recently had to switch to generic because of insurance. It’s been over a month now and depression and anger have returned along with new side effects including hot flashes every 30-45 minutes, weakness, increased diastolic blood pressure, ear pressure, extreme muscle spasms/cramping . Found out the FDA made a class III recall on the specific generic I’m taking but the pharmacy says the III means it isn’t a patient safety issue so they are not returning them to the manufacturer. I asked for another generic brand but they stated that’s all they have in their store and warehouse. Now I am waiting for my doctor to fill out a petition to my insurance company so I can get the Lilly brand Cymbalta. Each day is a little worse than the next. Seems like an FDA recall should be increased or actually mean something to someone other than people trapped in the red tape of it all. I feel victimized to my MDD and the health care system. I’m not sure which is worse, the disease, knowing there is one medication that actually helps that I can’t get, the side effects from the generic, or the future of pharmaceuticals and health insurance companies collaboration in patient treatment. Good luck to all of us.
Jan
Utah
I have fibromyalgia and some depression. My new Dr. prescribed Cymbalta. It was a miracle drug for me. I had a life again!! When the generic became available, I switched to generic cymbalta, I begin to return to the pain and fatigue I suffered before having this drug. I wanted to stay in bed and not move. My Dr. strengthened the dose on the prescription. I tried it for a short while still not feeling my best. Then the pharmacy changed to a different generic manufacturer. I had more problems–slightly different than before. I decided to go back to the brand name. I felt so much better. I have also had problems with a generic migraine medicine. I found it was manufactured in India. After research, I have found there are many complaints about Indian made generic drugs which account for 40% of the generic market!! The FDA has sited some of these companies but they still are making inferior drugs!! Peoples’ lives are adversely affected! What can we do to change this??
Richard
Saint Louis, MO
I have been taking the generic for Cymbalta for about 3 years. It was first prescribed for me for back pain in a rehab hospital after a back operation. I now pay only $10 for a 3 month’s supply of the generic for Cymbalta (90) from my USA mail order pharmacy that I have through BC/BS.
Carla
Valdosta
I am on the generic Cymbalta for depression and chronic pain & I know it doesn’t work like the brand but I can’t afford the $150 for my co-pay. I have a lot of days when I just want to stay in bed with the covers over my head. My daughter got off of it by taking a high quality fish oil after going to “The Road Back “website.
Allyson
Georgia
I was on 30mg of Duloxetine for months for pain, and when I had severe nightsweats, decided to go off of it. When I tried it again, the 30mg behaved completely differently — it caused much GI distress, which I never had before. Now, I’m on the 20mg, and may just bail completely as it does not seem to be working in the least. Sigh.