Q. Our 24-year-old daughter was experiencing anxiety. Her doctor prescribed clonazepam (also known as Klonopin). Along with that, he gave her free samples of an antidepressant called Cymbalta.
Our daughter took these medicines beginning on Thursday, but they made her feel bad. By Sunday evening she began talking about losing a desire to live. On Monday morning, she drove her beautiful 4-year-old daughter to school and then drove to her fiance’s home. When she got there, she took a gun and killed herself.
We are at a loss as to what happened. Our daughter might still be here if not for Cymbalta.
A. We are so sorry to learn about your family’s tragedy. The Medication Guide that comes with Cymbalta contains the following caution: “Antidepressant medicines may increase suicidal thoughts or actions in some children, teenagers, and young adults within the first few months of treatment.” Patients or family members should contact the prescriber immediately if the patient feels agitated or has thoughts of suicide. We hope your experience will help others.
