[MusicMike]

I started abusing painkillers and developed a massive caffeine addiction after switching antidepressants from an SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) to an SNRI (serotonin/norepineprhine reuptake inhibit). The specific SNRI was Cymbalta (duloxatine). My pdoc told me that the effect of an SNRI on norepinephrine can potentiate addictive tendencies. I liked the effects of Cymbalta on my depression and fibromyalgia, so I stayed on it. But now, two years later, I'm coming to my senses and realizing I have to get the hell off this medication.

Anyone have some similar experience?

[CANDC]

No experience with Cymbalta, but these may be helpful.

Psych Central - Search results for Addictions get worse on an SNRI

[splitimage]

I was already drinking pretty heavily when I first went on an SNRI -Effexor, but after starting that med, I definitely drank a lot more.

splitimage

[MusicMike]

Thanks, splitimage, that really makes me feel not alone with this. It's very frustrating.

[Mygrandjourney]

This is from "drugs.com" a relatively authoritative site backed by the NIH:
Regarding Duloxetine:
Talk to your doctor before using DULoxetine together with ethanol. DULoxetine may cause liver damage, and taking it with alcohol may increase that risk. You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with DULoxetine. Call your doctor immediately if you have fever, chills, joint pain or swelling, excessive tiredness or weakness, unusual bleeding or bruising, skin rash or itching, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, dark colored urine, or yellowing of the skin or the whites of your eyes, as these may be symptoms of liver damage. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

Regarding Effexor:
Using venlafaxine together with ethanol can increase nervous system side effects such as dizziness, drowsiness, and difficulty concentrating. Some people may also experience impairment in thinking and judgment. You should avoid or limit the use of alcohol while being treated with venlafaxine. Do not use more than the recommended dose of venlafaxine, and avoid activities requiring mental alertness such as driving or operating hazardous machinery until you know how the medication affects you. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medication without first talking to your doctor.

[MusicMike]

In my case it's painkillers, not alcohol, that I've been overusing, but thanks for the info. But also keep in mind that I am well aware that my behavior is dangerous yet I have great difficulty controlling it - - the definition of an addiction. My doctor is helping me to transition off the SNRI. That's going to be the long-term solution.

[Mygrandjourney]

You can check the drugs.com website for interactions w/ the painkiller you are using. Best of luck!