New Medication

I went to see my new family practice doctor yesterday. He did tell me that my previous primary care physician at the same office left. That is why I could not make an appointment with her again. The new doctor seems very personable and was attentive in listening to my issues.

I was there mainly to address my recent panic and anxiety attacks. I also mentioned that I would like to see if there is anything for my diabetic peripheral neuropathy. I was expecting something like Zoloft or Xanax for the anxiety, and maybe gabapentin or Lyrica for the neuropathy. Instead, he prescribed me some Cymbalta. I have seen the commercials but did not really know what the medication was for.

At first glance, Cymbalta seems to be marketed as an anti-depression medication. It is a selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SSNRI). The doctor explained that Cymbalta should address both the issues I presented to him regarding anxiety and neuropathy.

Duloxetine is used to treat depression and anxiety. It is also used for pain caused by nerve damage associated with diabetes (diabetic peripheral neuropathy).

https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/duloxetine-oral-route/description/drg-20067247

Since Cymbalta takes time to address anxiety, the doctor also prescribed me hydroxyzine or Atarax. This medication is “used to help control anxiety and tension caused by nervous and emotional conditions.” This is supposed to be fast acting and also helps with sleeping. He said this is an antihistamine, bascially like Benadryl. Cymbalta was not covered by insurance, but Albertsons pharmacy let me have it for $14.

Last night, I took one pill each of the Cymbalta and Atarax. Very quickly I felt my cold chills fade but also drowsy at the same time. When I got up to use the bathroom during the night, I felt my neuropathy was worse than before. I managed to fall asleep, and I do feel better this morning. The neuropathy did settle down, though I cannot determine if it was better or worse than before taking the new medications. The anxiety symptoms were absent, but as I am typing, I am starting to feel chills again. Hopefully all this will improve over time.