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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Is There Interaction Between Cymbalta And Zoloft?

I am taking Cymbalta 60mg and my doc has ordered Zoloft 50mg and his advice is take one of them in the morning and the other in the evening. Right now we are going through some rough problems and he has ordered these to try to help me through them. I just hate taking so many meds but if it will help I m willing to try. What really scares me the most is getting of anti-depressants I hate the feelings you re stuck with. I would appreciate any help or reassurance you can give me.
Tue, 16 Aug 2016
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
HI, thanks for using healthcare magic

It is unusual to use two members of this drug family in combination especially since one is at its maximum (the cymbalta is normally only used up to 60 mg).

These medications normally increase the level of a chemical called serotonin, this plays a part in helping improve the mood.
However too much serotonin can be dangerous.

When this combination is placed in a drug interaction checker, the result indicate that they should not be used together because of the risk of serotonin syndrome.
In addition the zoloft actually increases the level or effect of the cymbalta by preventing its breakdown.

You may want to discuss this with your doctor. Most persons use one of these or another antidepressant.

In terms of addition, these are not generally considered dependent medications and you would be able to wean off when everything is better for you.
It would not be lifelong.

I hope this helps
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Is There Interaction Between Cymbalta And Zoloft?

HI, thanks for using healthcare magic It is unusual to use two members of this drug family in combination especially since one is at its maximum (the cymbalta is normally only used up to 60 mg). These medications normally increase the level of a chemical called serotonin, this plays a part in helping improve the mood. However too much serotonin can be dangerous. When this combination is placed in a drug interaction checker, the result indicate that they should not be used together because of the risk of serotonin syndrome. In addition the zoloft actually increases the level or effect of the cymbalta by preventing its breakdown. You may want to discuss this with your doctor. Most persons use one of these or another antidepressant. In terms of addition, these are not generally considered dependent medications and you would be able to wean off when everything is better for you. It would not be lifelong. I hope this helps