I was very depressed and experiencing very high levels of pain when I started Cymbalta almost 5 yrs. ago. It worked well for the depression and just getting that under control ultimately had positive effects on the pain, I'm sure. I cannot say for certain that the drug had a direct impact on the pain as the pain level remained high. Since I've had no side effects and my liver function is fine, I've stayed on it for managing my depression.

I'd like to also say that working with a therapist who has experience in helping those with chronic pain has been just as important in managing my PN as any medication has been. My PN came on fast and strong and I was (still am, sometimes) a real mess! I was very lucky to find a Pain Mgmt. Group and a neurologist who understand how to treat the "whole person" rather than just the pain or the condition.

Best of luck to you!
Doxie