Cymbalta (Duloxetine) Controlled Substance Status

Is Cymbalta a controlled substance?

The Controlled Substances Act lists some substances and drugs that are subject to special controls around their use, storage, and distribution. The substances are listed in different schedules based on their risk of being misused. They impact the nervous system, creating effects such as euphoria, and they may cause physical and psychological dependence.^[2]

Cymbalta does work on the central nervous system, but it is slow to take effect and does not create a high in the same way other drugs may. As a result, it is not considered to be at risk of being misused.

Although Cymbalta is not a controlled substance, it is still a prescription-only medication. You are not able to buy it over-the-counter, and you should only use Cymbalta which has been prescribed for you by a clinician.

Cymbalta's potential for misuse and dependence

Because Cymbalta does not offer a euphoric high or other experience that makes it prone to abuse. It also takes effect over a period of weeks, rather than minutes or hours, which again reduces the probability of it being misused.^[6]

Coming off of Cymbalta can be difficult. It’s important to taper the dose. You may still get withdrawal symptoms, including dizziness, headache, vomiting, insomnia, the sensation of electric shocks, and fatigue.^[1] Rather than withdrawal, this is sometimes called a “discontinuation syndrome,” which can last for weeks or even longer.

Prescribing and usage guidelines

Cymbalta is typically taken once or twice per day as an oral tablet or capsule. A typical starting dose is 60 mg per day, although some patients will start at a lower dose of 30 mg per day. The total daily dosage rarely exceeds 120 mg per day.

Cymbalta should be taken without chewing or crushing the tablet or opening the capsule. Missed doses should be taken as soon as they are remembered unless it is nearly time for the next dose. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Cymbalta should usually not be stopped abruptly unless there is a pressing medical need to do so. The dosage should be gradually tapered under the guidance of a medical professional to minimize any unpleasant symptoms.

Any information here is offered as general information only and should not be taken as medical advice. Cymbalta should only ever be taken as prescribed by your doctor.