Cymbalta alternative/Patient Assistance Programs

[gigi]

My boyfriend has hit the Medicare Part D gap, and Cymbalta (Eli Lilly) offers no help to those with Part D (or any drug coverage). SO, we need to find a new medication. His pain doc has suggested Lexapro, but I heard him talking to the Lexapro drug rep 3 minutes before he came in for our appointment. I'm just not sure he gave all alternatives full consideration.

I'd like to hear what experience anyone's had switching to a Cymbalta alternative. He likes the Cymbalta, we only have to give it up because of cost.

I saw on some other website a list of meds in the same class, and they included Effexor, Pristiq and Venlafaxine. Any input is greatly appreciated!

Also, we are applying for Patient Assistance for Lyrica - has anyone else been through this application process and have any advice or feedback?

Thanks!

[David Berg]

Would Elavil do what he needs? The generic is pretty much dirt cheap, as meds go. It's a common med to use in combination with Neurotin or Lyrica for neuro pain.