Types of Medication for Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is the most common neurologic health problem that causes widespread pain and tenderness in the body. It is accompanied by fatigue, disturbances in thought and memory, psychiatric symptoms, and extreme anxiety about the physical symptoms (somatic symptoms). The cause of fibromyalgia is unclear; however, researchers have claimed that there’s an involvement of the nervous system, particularly the central nervous system.

Fibromyalgia affects approximately 5 million Americans every year, mostly women and some men. Fibromyalgia commonly affects middle-aged individuals; however, children may also be affected at times.

Medications such as Cymbalta (duloxetine), Savella (milnacipran), and Lyrica (pregabalin) are the three FDA-approved drugs for fibromyalgia. They alter brain chemicals (serotonin and norepinephrine) to control pain levels. The physician may also prescribe the following medications:

• Over-the-counter (OTC) nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Motrin (ibuprofen), Aleve (naproxen), and Tylenol (acetaminophen)
• Prescription painkillers: Opioid painkillers like tramadol may be recommended for short-term use in serious cases
• Antidepressants: They can relieve pain and other fibromyalgia symptoms. Some examples include:
  • Duloxetine
  • Milnacipran
  • Citalopram (Celexa)
  • Escitalopram (Lexapro)
  • Fluvoxamine (Luvox)
  • Fluoxetine (Prozac)
  • Paroxetine (Paxil, Pexeva)
  • Sertraline (Zoloft)
  • Amitriptyline
• Antiseizure: These drugs may help ease your fibromyalgia pain. They prevent sensitive nerve endings from sending excess pain signals to the brain. Some examples include:
  • Pregabalin
  • Gabapentin
• Muscle relaxants: These drugs improve various symptoms of fibromyalgia and help improve sleep. Some examples include:
  • Cyclobenzaprine
  • Tizanidine

Common side effects of OTC painkillers include:

• Ulcers
• Bleeding in the stomach or intestines

Common side effects of prescription painkillers include:

• Stomach pain
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Trouble concentrating

Common side effects of antidepressants include:

• Blurred vision
• Nausea
• Fatigue
• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Change in appetite
• Constipation

Common side effects of antiseizure medicines include:

• Drowsiness
• Weight gain
• Blurry vision
• Dizziness
• Swelling of the hands or feet

Common side effects of muscle relaxants include:

• Dry mouth
• Dizziness
• Blurry vision
• Headaches
• Chest pain
• Nausea
• Fever

This is not a complete list of side effects and other serious side effects or health problems that may occur because of the use of this drug. Call your doctor for medical advice about serious side effects or adverse reactions. You may report side effects or health problems to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

Currently, no fibromyalgia drugs are completely safe to use during pregnancy. The doctors usually ask the women to go off the antidepressants and painkillers before they become pregnant. However, talk to your doctor before you stop any medicines. Pregnant women with fibromyalgia should stick to alternative therapies like massage, yoga, exercise, meditation, and rest for symptom relief.

Some medicines prescribed for treating fibromyalgia can enhance the effect of alcohol and lead to:

• Liver injury
• Overdose
• Death

There’s no evidence that alcohol can cause symptom flare-ups in fibromyalgia. Always consult your doctor about the number of drinks allowed when you have fibromyalgia.