Fibromyalgia is believed to be an autoimmune disorders similar to arthritis, but heightened by pain transmitters gone awry due to neuroendocrine dysfunction in the brain. This condition is characterized by pain, sleep disturbances, fatigue, and body and joint tenderness. It can also be exacerbated by psychological stress and disabling by the constant discomfort it causes. The National Fibromyalgia Association suggests that new research is linking a genetic predisposition to the condition that can be triggered by a traumatic injury or illness.
Analgesics
Analgesics are often used to reduce or treat the pain attributed to fibromyalgia. The Arthritis Foundation suggests that individuals with fibromyalgia may find relief with over-the-counter analgesics such as acetaminophen, or Tylenol. However, in some cases the physician may prescribe stronger analgesics such as tramadol, or Ultram.
NSAIDs
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, have pain-relieving properties in addition to their anti-inflammatory effects that help bring comfort to those suffering from fibromyalgia. According to the Arthritis Foundation, drugs in this category include aspirin, Motrin and Aleve. These drugs can be purchased over-the-counter and are considered relatively safe for the user.
Tricyclic Antidepressants
Tricyclic antidepressants are prescription drugs used to treat fibromyalgia symptoms associated with depression and sleep disturbances. Intelihealth suggests that in the correct dose, tricyclic antidepressants show tremendous benefit to the user if taken before bed. These drugs have sedating effects and could create daytime drowsiness if taken earlier. Drugs in this category include Tofranil, Elavil, Nafranil, Sinequan, Norpramin, Pamelor, Vivactil and Surmontil.
SSRIs
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, or SSRIs, are also antidepressant drugs often prescribed for individuals with fibromyalgia. Peace Health acknowledges that science still has not discovered the true reasons as to how these drugs work, but individuals with fibromyalgia have reported vast improvements in their overall condition, including the alleviation of pain and fatigue, sleep disturbances and mood. Drugs in this category include Celexa, Lexapro, Prozac, Paxil and Zoloft.
