Fibromyalgia, also known as fibromyalgia syndrome, is an illness which is characterized by chronic, widespread pain, generalized fatigue and sleep disorders. The cause of fibromyalgia is still uncertain. However, most researchers agree that its onset is triggered by some form of trauma. This could be a physical trauma, such as an injury or illness, or an emotional trauma that produces severe, prolonged stress. A variety of medications are used to treat fibromyalgia although, to date, only three prescription medications have been approved by the FDA.
Over The Counter Medication
Over-the-counter analgesics and anti-inflammatories, such as aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxyn are often used to treat the pain of fibromyalgia. Many patients, however, find that these medications are ineffective in managing their chronic pain.
Lyrica
Lyrica is an anti-convulsant, which was the first drug approved for treating fibromyalgia. It works by affecting chemicals in the brain which send pain signals. In clinical trials, Lyrica was found to reduce pain, as well as to improve fatigue and sleep among fibromyalgia patients.
Cymbalta
Cymbalta is an antidepressant which was approved by the FDA to treat fibromyalgia in June, 2008. It is in a class of medications known as serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRI's). These medications work by helping to restore the balance of neuorotransmitters in the brain. Cymbalta decreases the pain of fibromyalgia, as well as improving mood, sleep, and energy levels.
Savella
Savella is the third prescription medication to be approved by the FDA specifically for treatment of fibromyalgia. Like Cymbalta, it is an antidepressant, a serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI), which works by restoring the brain's balance of neurotransmitters. In studies conducted by the FDA, patients using Savella demonstrated significant improvements in pain and physical function.
Other Prescription Drugs
Although they are not approved specifically for treament of fibromyalgia, a number of other prescription medications are often used to treat the symptoms of the disease. Prescripton pain relievers, such as Celebrex, hydrocodone, and oxycodone are often used for fibromyalgia pain, as well as anti-inflammatories, such as prednisone.
Aside from Cymbalta and Savella, other antidepressants can be used. These include tricyclic antidepressants, such as amitryptiline and trazadone, and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, such as Lexapro, Zoloft, and Prozac.
Muscle relaxants, such as Flexaril, Soma, and Skelaxin are often prescribed for fibromyalgia pain, and anti-anxiety medications, including Ativan and Xanax may be used to help reduce pain and improve sleep.
