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Question
I've been taking 300mg of effexor, 150mg twice daily for 5 years. I question its current efficacy. I was advised to try Cymbalta. I have 60mg tablets. How many cymbalta milligrams is equivalent to 150 effexor milligrams. Can I get on it slowly by taking cymbalta in the morning and effexor in the evening?
Hi Gary,
There is no equivalent dose since the two drugs represent two distinct chemical classes. If you are starting Cymbalta for depression, the normal starting dose is 20mg twice a day. The max dose is 60mg/day for depression.
As far as weaning off the Effexor goes, you really need to ask you Dr. for their recommendation. Some doctors will make the complete switch right away while others will make it more gradual. It depends on the patients history.
I hope you will find more relief with Cymbalta. Good luck and take care!
Best,
Dr. Tara Kompare, Pharm.D.
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Answers by Expert:
Dr. Tara Kompare, Pharm.D.
Expertise
I can answer a broad range of questions related to community pharmacy practice. My particular interests include childrens` health and safe medication use for seniors. As the mother of two small children, I am quite knowledgable on many parenting issues from how to handle a baby with colic to how to get kids to take their medicine. With regards to medication use in seniors, I can answer questions about adverse effects, drugs to generally avoid in that population, and disease management issues.
Experience
I entered the world of pharmacy as a technician for approximately six years. I then went on to receive my Doctor of Pharmacy degree and now work for the Federal Government as an outpatient pharmacist.
Publications
Drug Topics Feb.2006 edition ("Why a Kiddie Corner Makes Sense"),
I also recently submitted an article to Pharmacy Times entitled "How to Help Parents Cope With Colic" which is scheduled for publication in the near future.
Education/Credentials
B.S. Biology (Old Dominion University 1997)
Pharm.D.(Virginia Commonwealth University 2002)
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