If you’ve been following along with my health journey, you know that starting new medications is always a little bit of a gamble—especially when you’re already juggling multiple chronic conditions. I do my best to stay informed, cautious, and open-minded… but sometimes, your body will tell you loud and clear: “Nope, this ain’t it.”
That was my reality in the last 24 hours after being prescribed Flexeril (a muscle relaxer) and Cymbalta (an SNRI often used to treat depression, anxiety, and nerve-related pain). The provider had told me that the Cymbalta would probably give me a burst of energy and to take it during the day. HE did not warn me of the potential risks with the combination he had prescribed at all.
However, after taking these new medications, it became alarmingly clear that they were not the right fit for me. The initial excitement of hope and relief quickly morphed into feelings of discomfort and confusion. The side effects hit me hard, leaving me feeling disoriented and fatigued. It was a stark contrast to the state of mind I hoped to achieve.
Cymbalta brought its own set of challenges, which I have not experienced before. The emotional turbulence it stirred was unexpected and unsettling, I felt very disconnected.
Let’s just say… things went downhill quickly. What started as a well-intentioned step forward in managing my symptoms rapidly turned into an overwhelming experience of trial and error. Recognizing that every medication affects everyone differently is crucial, but it doesn’t make the experience less daunting. My journey continues, and I remain determined to find the right combination that works for me, learning and adapting along the way.
Previous updates here:
Appointment details here:
🌙 Night One: Hopeful Start
Flexeril at bedtime seemed promising. I actually got some of the best sleep I’ve had in a while, which gave me a glimmer of hope. But I woke up feeling like my brain had been left behind—groggy, foggy, and moving at half-speed. Not ideal, but I figured maybe I just needed a little coffee and time to shake it off.
☀️ Morning: Cymbalta Hits Hard
That hope vanished about 30 minutes after taking Cymbalta.
Instead of feeling more energized and awake—as I was told it might make me feel—I experienced intense internal shakiness, brain fog, and overwhelming fatigue. My body felt overstimulated while also being completely wiped out, and that feeling never went away throughout the day.
I tried to push through—got two of the kids to work, came home, and immediately had to lie down. The nausea was so bad I had to stay horizontal most of the day to avoid vomiting. I also started experiencing a strange, buzzing sensation in my head, quite dizzy, and definitely not okay.
💻 Reaching Out for Help
That afternoon, I sent a message to my provider. Here’s a portion of what I shared:
“I’m experiencing several intense and persistent side effects that are raising concerns… Cymbalta has left me very jittery, shaky, foggy, and overwhelmingly fatigued. The shakiness has continued throughout the entire day, almost like an internal vibration. I’ve also had significant nausea and fatigue, to the point where I’ve had to lie down repeatedly just to keep from getting sick. On top of that, it’s making my head feel very strange—off-balance, with a strange pressure or buzzing sensation that’s hard to describe. I believe I could do well with Flexeril combined with a different medication, but the two of these together just don’t seem right for me.”
🧠 What I Found in the Research
Once I had a moment of clarity between resting, I did a bit of research. What I found was… eye-opening.
- Cymbalta is NOT always a good fit for individuals with ADHD. In fact, while it’s sometimes used off-label to treat ADHD symptoms in rare cases, it can actually worsen symptoms in many people, particularly when combined with other medications that affect neurotransmitters. This is crucial to consider, as individuals may experience a range of negative side effects, including increased anxiety, irritability, and a notable decrease in focus, which could exacerbate the very symptoms that are intended to be treated. Moreover, the interactions with other medications can lead to unpredictable results, making it essential for healthcare providers to carefully evaluate the potential risks and benefits before prescribing Cymbalta to patients with ADHD.
- The combination of Cymbalta and Flexeril carries an increased risk of Serotonin Syndrome—a potentially serious condition caused by too much serotonin in the brain. This condition can manifest through a variety of symptoms, which can include confusion, agitation, sweating, tremors, and even seizures. It is crucial for patients to be aware of these symptoms and to seek immediate medical attention if they experience any of them, as timely intervention can prevent further complications from arising.
- There are also flagged warnings about pancreatic issues, especially in individuals with certain preexisting conditions or medication sensitivities. This includes, but is not limited to, those with a history of pancreatitis or gastrointestinal disorders, who may experience exacerbated symptoms or complications. (Hello, autoimmune system that already loves to self-destruct.)
So, while these medications may work wonders for some, for others—especially folks like me with ADHD, fibromyalgia, and autoimmune complexities—it can be a cocktail for chaos, leading to a tangled web of side effects and complications that can disrupt daily life. Managing these conditions often requires a delicate balance, as the medications intended to alleviate symptoms sometimes interact in ways that exacerbate existing issues, leaving us navigating a maze of confusion and frustration. For individuals juggling multiple health challenges, finding the right treatment can feel like an overwhelming quest, with each new prescription holding the potential for both relief and unwanted surprises.
🎯 The Lesson? Listen to Your Body.
If you’re out here navigating chronic illness, you already know that no two bodies are the same. What works for one person might send another into a spiral. That’s why tracking symptoms, communicating with your providers, and doing your own research is so important.
Even if something is “commonly prescribed,” it doesn’t mean it’s right for you. You are your best advocate, and if your body is saying nope, listen. It’s essential to pay attention to the signals your body is sending and to recognize that these signs are personal to you.
Chronic illness can feel isolating at times, and it’s easy to get overwhelmed by the medical jargon and treatment options presented to us. Keep in mind that your experience is valid. Sharing your symptoms and feelings with those who understand your journey can bring about a sense of community and support. Allies in your health journey, whether friends, family, or online support groups, can offer encouragement and insights that resonate with your situation.
Today, I have not taken either one of the medications, as result of the Cymbalta [ I am pretty sure] I am experiencing some IBS issues. It’s important to recognize how the fluctuations in my condition can dictate my medication choices. There are signs my pancreas is aggravated for sure, which makes me even more cautious about what I put into my body. Each day can present new challenges, and it’s these little reminders that strengthen our resolve to prioritize our health and advocate for what feels right for us. Listening to our bodies is a journey itself, but it’s one worth undertaking for our well-being.
I have also decided I do not want to do the steroid injections into my spine, as I have taken the time to thoroughly weigh my options. The risks involved right now seem to outweigh the potential benefits, especially considering the uncertainty surrounding the outcomes.
As I continue to navigate the various issues my back has been presenting, it becomes increasingly clear that I need a more holistic approach added into my treatment. The weed was helping just fine, but I recognize that exploring further options could enhance my recovery process.
I want to explore other avenues that may promote healing and alleviate my pain without introducing the complications associated with injections, such as possible side effects or long-term damage. I understand that while injections can provide immediate relief, they often come with their own set of risks, which can sometimes exacerbate the very issues I am trying to manage.
Thus, I believe it’s important to prioritize my overall well-being and seek alternative therapies, such as gentle movement therapy & yoga, which have become increasingly recognized for their effectiveness in promoting physical and mental health. Additionally, I have started to do those already but halted as I wanted to see what the Spine Clinic had to say, understanding that their insights could guide me in making a more informed decision about my healthcare journey and help me navigate the best path forward in managing my condition. These methods not only focus on flexibility and strength but also encourage mindfulness and a deeper connection between the mind and body. By incorporating these practices into my routine, I may discover a more sustainable approach to pain management that emphasizes long-term health benefits over short-term solutions.
So for now, we will wait and see what the doctor says, or if he even responds to me. It can be frustrating to feel as though my concerns might not be addressed promptly, and I can’t help but wonder if this will be another doctor I have to pass on and continue on my journey without. I genuinely hope to find a solution that not only alleviates my pain but also supports me in leading a fulfilling life. Whatever the outcome may be, I remain committed to being proactive in my health journey and seeking out the guidance and support needed to navigate this complex situation.
🌱 Where I Go From Here
For now, I’m stopping Cymbalta. Since it was only one day, there isn’t any worry about withdrawal symptoms, and I’m hoping to reset my system during this time. It’s a bit of a process, and I’m aware that finding the right balance is crucial for my overall well-being.
I believe Flexeril may still be useful for nighttime relief, as it has provided some benefits in the past. However, I’m also open to exploring other options that better support Fibromyalgia and chronic pain. This is particularly important for me, considering I also navigate ADHD and have autoimmune issues that complicate my health situation further.
Thank you to everyone who’s checked in or followed along with my journey. Sharing these experiences truly matters, because someone else out there might be wondering if they’re alone in feeling this way. You’re not alone—it’s vital to remember that others share similar struggles, and we can support each other through these challenges. By being open about these difficult experiences, we create a sense of community that reassures us all. Your support and understanding make a significant difference, and together we can seek solutions that empower us rather than hinder us.
Much love and many blessings,
Mrs. B
Discover more from LunaOwl : The Unconventional Momma
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
