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Thyroid Issues

Here is yet another reminder that Cymbalta - whether on it or reducing - can lead to mis-diagnosis in other areas.
Cymbalta has this scary ability to "mimic" other health problems.

By one of our members, Heidi Brenneman

Hey my fellow sufferers! Did you know that Cymbalta withdrawal symptoms can mimic the symptoms of hypothyroid???
How many of you have been treated by a well-meaning doctor or naturopath with thyroid medication that you felt you didn't need?
If you think you may be one of these people, get your test results together for your TSH, T4 & T3 and look again.
If your tests reveal that you're within the normal range pre-thyroid medication, you might want to seek a 2nd opinion on your need to take these meds.
If you have not been diagnosed with Hashimotos, you may be taking thyroid medication that you don't need at all! I freaking HATE doctors! Argh!

Taken from an interview with Dr. Kelly Brogan:

Which medical tests can actually help pinpoint the root cause of what we commonly think of as mood disorders?

At the very start of treatment, as my patients begin my strict dietary protocol, I order the following tests:

Thyroid function tests: TSH, free T3, free T4, thyroid autoantibodies, and reverse T3
Underlying genetic variant: the MTHFR gene test (the MTHFR gene produces the MTHFR enzyme, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, which is essential for several bodily processes that directly tie into mental well-being)
Signs of vitamin B12 deficiency: serum vitamin B12 levels and homocysteine levels, which can detect B12 deficiency as well
Levels of inflammation: High-sensitivity C-reactive protein
Blood sugar balance: Haemoglobin A1C
Vitamin D deficiency: Levels of 25OH vitamin D in the blood

CHW Akathisia

It’s difficult for those of us who have never experienced the powerful sensations of akathisia, a potential but horrific side effect of many psychotropic medications, to truly understand what those afflicted have gone through.

CHW Serotonin Syndrome

In Cymbalta Hurts Worse, we spend an inordinate amount of time stressing the importance of a slow, slow taper to avoid Discontinuation Syndrome, but it is important to also mention Serotonin Syndrome. Sometimes people have such an immediate bad reaction to Cymbalta or other drugs their lives are in danger the drug must be stopped immediately.

CHW Tapering Spreadsheets

Downloads and online calculator to help you figure out your tapering. Before you use these resources, you need to understand what you are doing, so you should read CHW Tapering Guide first.

CHW Thinking of Starting an Antidepressant?

Informed consent and questions for your doctor. For example: When doctors say this… ask this.

CHW Crisis and Safety Planning

This is about suicidal thoughts, imaginings and plans. This is a possible effect of many medications: antidepressants and anticonvulsants. When taking or tapering off Cymbalta / Duloxetine, young and old, we are at risk. This is one reason CHW does not allow promoting or advocating Cymbalta or other drugs.

CHW Thyroid Issues

Here is yet another reminder that Cymbalta – whether on it or reducing – can lead to mis-diagnosis in other areas.
Cymbalta has this scary ability to “mimic” other health problems, including Thyroid issues.

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FOR INTERNATIONAL SUICIDE HOTLINES:

Please take the time to report your adverse symptoms from Cymbalta and Cymbalta withdrawal to the FDA. Call 1-800-332-1088

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