Hi Cliffman,
You are NOT the exception to the rule.
I am also very sensitive to medication, to a ridiculous extent.

I was on Neurontin for several yrs and it covered my neuropathy well but as I increased dosage, I found I was overly emotional and rather hard to live with.
( Even worse then my normal personality!)

Then my doc put me on Lyrica. He clearly stated not to drive or make any big decisions and to take it easy for 2-3 weeks until accommodated to the side effects. The side effects were feeling like I was walking on a boat in a storm and I felt dizzy and spacey. When I called the doc and said I wanted to stop, he said, please try to stick it out another week because you need help for your neuropathy and we don't have a lot of options left. I did ride out the side effects and they did go away. I have decent coverage for neuropathy and it has been like 7-8 yrs. My one caution is, I did get off Lyrica twice and it was a wicked withdrawal.....you have to go VERY slowly. I had minor seizures prior to taking Lyrica and when I withdrew, my seizures came back but it is my understanding that even if you never had seizures, you need to withdraw slowly or you may get them.

The good news is, Lyrica has helped my neuropathy which is in my right jaw, face, head and down my right arm. It is especially bad in my face and jaw and in the winter, it is very difficult to go out without being well covered. Just riding in a car with the window open can be painful anytime of the year.

There are alternatives if you think you can't make it through the Cymbalta.
Wishing you the best....I know trying to soften neuropathy is not easy but have patience and educate yourself and keep doing smart things like asking questions to the good folks on these forums. They have all supported me through some tough times. I am certain things will get better for you.
My best,
Diandra