Glossary
Below are definitions for a number of terms found on Cymbalta.com.
acupuncture—A form of complementary or alternative medicine that consists of inserting small needles into the skin in order to relieve pain and other symptoms.
antidepressants—A group of medications that are thought to relieve symptoms of depression by affecting the level of chemicals, known as neurotransmitters, in the brain.
biofeedback—A form of complementary or alternative medicine that uses electronic monitoring devices to help teach a patient how to relax and control pain symptoms.
blood glucose management—Taking care—through diet and/or medication—of the level of sugar found in the blood. Blood glucose management is especially important for patients with diabetes.
clinical trial—A medical study that evaluates the safety and effectiveness of a treatment or drug. Each trial is designed to answer scientific questions and to find better ways to treat people with a specific illness.
contraindication—Refers to a situation when a drug, procedure, or treatment should not be used, because it may be harmful to the person.
diabetic nerve pain—A symptom of nerve damage that occurs in people with diabetes. Symptoms can include burning, stabbing, or shooting pain; numbness; tingling or pain; and weakness in the toes, feet, legs, hands, arms, and fingers. Symptoms last throughout the day.
fibromyalgia—Fibromyalgia is characterized by chronic widespread pain in both sides of the body above and below the waistline and multiple tender points.
FDA (Food and Drug Administration)—A governmental organization responsible for protecting public health by ensuring, among other things, that medications are safe and effective.
generalized anxiety disorder—Generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) is a medical condition defined as excessive anxiety and worry, present more days than not for at least six months.
major depression—Also known as major depressive disorder. A medical condition characterized by persistent emotional symptoms, such as sadness, loss of pleasure, feelings of hopelessness and worthlessness, and thoughts of suicide or death, as well vague aches and pains.
meditation—A process of concentration and relaxation, sometimes used to help relieve pain symptoms.
narcotic—A medication that is often used to relieve pain symptoms and can lead to dependence.
neurotransmitters—Chemical "messengers" that facilitate communication between nerve cells. Neurotransmitters are found in the brain and throughout the body along pathways to the brain, such as the spinal cord. Many experts believe that neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and norepinephrine, may play a major role in regulating a person's moods, emotions, and perception of pain.
norepinephrine—A chemical messenger, or neurotransmitter, that aids communication in areas of the brain and spinal cord and may play a role in regulating a person's moods, emotions, and perception of pain.
psychiatrist—A physician that specializes in evaluating and treating mental, emotional, or behavioral disorders. Psychiatrists are medical doctors and can prescribe medication.
psychologist—A healthcare professional that specializes in the science of mind and behavior. Psychologists usually have a PhD and have received additional training to work with patients. Psychologists are not medical doctors and cannot ordinarily prescribe medication. They do perform evaluations, use psychotherapy, and may work with medical doctors to treat patients.
psychotherapist—A general term used to describe a person who practices any kind of psychotherapy.
psychotherapy—Also known as counseling or "talk" therapy. One of several possible treatments for depression, psychotherapy aims to help a person learn about himself or herself, understand past and present relationships, and change patterns of behavior that may contribute to depression. Psychotherapy can involve individual, group, or family sessions.
serotonin—A chemical messenger, or neurotransmitter, that aids communication in areas of the brain and spinal cord and may play a role in regulating a person's moods, emotions, and perception of pain.
SNRI (serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors)—A class of medications that affect the activity of serotonin and norepinephrine.
SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor)—A class of antidepressants that affect the activity of serotonin.
