OpenHealth Q&A

Understanding the Interactions Between Cymbalta and Trazodone

**Profile: 37-Year-Old Male, Height: 6'0", Weight: 215 lbs, Non-Smoker (previously smoked for 6 years, over a decade ago)** **Current Health Concern: Long-COVID** **Medications I Am Currently Taking:** - **Wellbutrin XL 300 mg, daily** – Prescribed for depression and anxiety; assists in enhancing focus. - **Buspirone 10 mg, as required** – Used for occasional bouts of anxiety. - **Cymbalta 60 mg, daily** – Addressing migraines and neuropathy symptoms. - **Levothyroxine 25 mcg, daily** – Balances mild thyroid irregularities often seen in Long-COVID patients. - **Meloxicam 15 mg, daily** – Provides relief for general inflammation. - **Trazodone 75 mg, daily** – Taken before sleep to aid in rest; however, I have had complications. For approximately 1 year and 9 months, I have been grappling with the relentless symptoms of Long-COVID. Throughout this period, I began experiencing migraines and unusual neurological sensations such as facial and neck tingling, as well as sharp pains radiating from my jaw down my arm. Fortunately, the introduction of Cymbalta helped alleviate these symptoms. Despite being a lifelong sufferer of insomnia, Trazodone was added to my routine around six months ago, but I had little success with it. Initially, it seemed to exacerbate my restlessness instead of providing the sleep I craved. Two months ago, during a consultation with my sleep specialist, I shared my troubling experiences with Trazodone—specifically, how it left me feeling unsettled and restless. In response, his recommendation was to increase the dosage. Since that time, I have been enduring what feels like an unending nightmare. Sleep has been elusive, a constant state of restlessness has engulfed me, and I have been suffering from restless leg syndrome for weeks on end. There have been moments of delirium, too. Previously, my heart rate would comfortably hover under 60 beats per minute while at rest, but now, even the simple act of sitting up results in palpitations and an elevated heart rate that only eases when I can finally recline. Remarkably, during recovery from a recent surgery, a doctor inquired if I had previously been an athlete due to the low heart rate and respiration I exhibited. The last couple of months have rendered me almost unable to traverse my backyard without feeling like I've just run a marathon. About a week ago, I decided to discontinue Trazodone. Although the restless leg syndrome vanished the very night I stopped, I still struggle with excessive sweating, even while trying to sleep, and abnormal chills. Today, I found myself wearing a hoodie in 80-degree weather. Other issues, such as my racing heart and constant palpitations, persist, leaving me feeling generally unwell. Will these symptoms eventually subside? While I hope for relief from the other lingering effects, the cessation of restless leg syndrome has brought a tiny sliver of comfort. I genuinely cannot fathom how anyone copes with that condition for an extended period.

Answers (1)

9/4/2025, 4:01:35 AM

OpenHealth AI

It sounds like you’ve been through a challenging time with your health, and I appreciate your willingness to share such detailed information. Your experiences with medications, especially Trazodone, and the symptoms you're facing after discontinuing it are certainly concerning. Let’s clarify a few things about the interactions between your medications and the symptoms you're experiencing.

Main Points

1. Trazodone and Cymbalta: Both medications can impact serotonin levels and may contribute to symptoms like restlessness, increased heart rate, and sleep disturbances, especially in combination.
2. Withdrawal Symptoms: Ceasing Trazodone might lead to withdrawal symptoms such as sweating and chills, while some effects from Cymbalta may linger, as your body adjusts to the changes.
3. Ongoing Monitoring: It’s important to monitor your symptoms and report any worsening or new developments.

Explanation

Trazodone is an antidepressant that can be used off-label for sleep. However, it can cause side effects such as restlessness and increased heart rate, particularly when starting or adjusting doses. In your case, it seems your recent increase in dosage led to exacerbation of these symptoms, prompting you to stop.

Discontinuation of Trazodone can also lead to withdrawal symptoms, which may explain your excessive sweating and chills. These symptoms are often temporary but can be uncomfortable. It’s also important to note that Cymbalta, as a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor, can contribute to mood and physical symptoms that may persist even after stopping another medication like Trazodone.

Next Steps

1. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a record of your heart rate, sweating, palpitations, and any other unusual sensations. This can help you identify any patterns or triggers.

2. Hydrate and Stay Cool: Ensure you stay well-hydrated and dress in light clothing to manage temperature fluctuations and excessive sweating.

3. Gradual Activity Increase: As you feel able, try to gradually increase your physical activity. Start with gentle exercises like walking to help with overall wellness without overwhelming yourself.

4. Consultation on Medications: It's crucial to discuss these ongoing symptoms with your healthcare provider or a pharmacist. They may recommend adjusting your doses of Cymbalta or exploring alternative sleep aids, given your history with Trazodone.

5. Supportive Measures for Sleep: Consider implementing a relaxing bedtime routine to help promote sleep without medication. This may include practices like mindfulness or light stretching.

It's understandable to feel overwhelmed during this time, but many of these symptoms can improve with careful monitoring and supportive care. If your symptoms persist or worsen, reaching out to your healthcare provider for a tailored approach is essential. You're making the right decisions for your health, and it’s okay to seek additional support.