Hi -- about a year ago my Mother's doctor prescribed Cymbalta for her, both for relief of lingering pain from a fall and as an antidepressant. At least that's how I remember the conversation in the doctor's office -- a discreet talk with me that Mom couldn't hear about the antidepressant and a talk loud enough for her to hear about the pain relief.
Mom was really upset when she read the literature enclosed with the first filled prescription. She felt duped into taking an antidepressant. Apparently she has forgotten about that and insists it's for pain.
Refills became quite expensive for her and she has relied on the doctor's office for samples from one appointment to the next.
We had an appointment yesterday that she requested because of persistent sick headaches, feeling "off", and stomach upset. The doctor advised Tylenol rather than aspirin, raised her Prilosec (antacid) dosage.
On the way home Mom said by the way she's been skipping does of the Cymbalta and when I looked it up online her symptoms match those of withdrawal from the drug, not taking it daily.
One of our many debates ensued with Mom insisting that Cymbalta is for occasional pain relief.
Mom is quite hard of hearing so I don't know how helpful it will be to have the Doc phone her.
Since I've been on an antidepressant and occasionally missed a dose, I know what it feels like, and I think it's what Mom is describing.
But she is also fiercely independent and not necessarily making good choices in general.
Any thoughts out there? Do I schedule another appointment for her since she probably will resist the idea?