I wouldn't suggest it at all. Just from personal experience, I developed a moderate case of serotonin syndrome while weening myself off Lexapro to switch to Cymbalta. Had I taken my regular dosage of Lexapro (20mg) with the 20mg of Cymbalta, I probably would have ended up in the ER.
Lexapro (escitalopram) and Cymbalta (duloxetine) are both antidepressants but belong to different classes. Lexapro is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), primarily increasing serotonin levels in the brain, while Cymbalta is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), affecting both serotonin and norepinephrine. This difference in mechanisms can lead to varying effects and side effects for individuals. Additionally, Cymbalta is often used to treat conditions like chronic pain and anxiety, whereas Lexapro is primarily used for depression and generalized anxiety disorder.
No, Lexapro (escitalopram) and Cymbalta (duloxetine) are not the same. Lexapro is a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) primarily used to treat depression and anxiety disorders, while Cymbalta is a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI) used for depression, anxiety, and certain pain conditions. Although both medications affect serotonin levels, they have different mechanisms of action and side effects. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
no, taking it with an antidepressant can cause serotonin syndrome
Actually yes u can!! Only thing is you may be moderately dizzy and the risk of seizires is slightly higher since esp the xanax lowers the "seizure threshold" but there or no real known dangerous interactions b/t these
Cymbalta is an SNRI, meaning it increases both serotonin and norepinephrine, while lexapro is an SSRI, meaning it increases only serotonin. These drugs that inhibit the reuptake of neurotransmitters MUST BE SWITCHED GRADUALLY. If switching from cymbalta to lexapro, the physician should induce a "step-down" therapy on the cymbalta while inducing a "step-up" therapy on lexapro. This ensures a level amount of drug in the blood, and minimizes the chance of recurrence and adverse effects.
5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) and Lexapro (escitalopram) both affect serotonin levels in the brain, and combining them can increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially life-threatening condition. Serotonin syndrome can cause symptoms such as confusion, rapid heart rate, and high blood pressure. Therefore, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider before using 5-HTP alongside any selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) like Lexapro. Always prioritize professional medical advice for safe medication management.
My psychiatrist prescribed both at once.AnswerNo they should not be taken together why not?Cymbalta and Lexapro have SIMILAR BUT NOT EXACTLY THE SAME mechanism of action [MEANING: these active ingredients illicit the same response and the enzymes attach to the same receptors (receivers) that prevents the serotinin from leaving the brain]. Cymbalta is an SNRI (Serotonin-Norepinephrine Reuptake Inhibitor) and Lexapro an SSRI (Selective-Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor). Serotonin is "BELIEVED" (not certain) to lack from people who are clinically depressed and norepi has "significant" correlation with depression as well (LOW NOREPI in the brain results to DEPRESSION). Cymbalta and Lexapro both have positive responses in preventing the escape of SEROTONIN from the brain. The only difference is Cymbalta also inhibits/stops the escape of norepi from the brain and Lexapro ONLY prevents serotonin reuptake (removal from brain receptors). The probability of an overdose from these antidepressants is extremely high and can lead to 'serotonin syndrome; too much serotonin which can be fatal (nausea,coma then death). Because both drugs are preventing serotonin from leaving the brain and therefore an accumulation of serotonin in the brain receptors. Only your MD can determin the OPTIMUM strength (the highest strength of the meds. to achieve therapeutic goals without being toxic) of antidepressants. ALSO, if your MD can justify why he's giving you both meds to the insurance, it will be covered by insurance. This will definitely be reviewed prior to approval of claim. These types of drug interactions alerts your insurance and stops them from paying the claim. You may end up paying for either or both your meds out of pocket.
Cymbalta is an antidepressant that is in the class of serotonin and norepinephrine inhibitor. Wellbutrin is also an antidepressant, but in the class of dopamine and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors.
Trazodone, Lexapro (escitalopram), and Topamax (topiramate) can interact in ways that may affect their efficacy and side effects. Trazodone and Lexapro both influence serotonin levels, which could increase the risk of serotonin syndrome, a potentially serious condition. Additionally, Topamax may reduce the effectiveness of certain antidepressants, including Lexapro. It's essential to consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice when using these medications together.
I recently switched from Cymbalta to Welbutrin. Cymbalta is similar to Lexapro. I started the transition by halving my Cymbalta dose while starting Welbutrin. This went on for a week, then I discontinued the Cymbalta and took only Welbutrin. Of course, the best answer to this question is to follow your doctor's orders.
It is generally not recommended to take Alka-Seltzer Plus with Lexapro, as the combination may increase the risk of serotonin syndrome. It is important to consult with a healthcare provider before combining these medications.
Serotonin syndrome is possible if you abuse cough syrup while on Lexapro. But stick to te recommended dose for a short period of time and you'll be fine. Source: I have been on Lexapro 20mg for 3 months and used Benadryl on it