Benefits and Drawbacks of Pharmaceuticals for FM

[Dooi]

Treating Fibromyalgia with Medications:

When it comes to treating Fibromyalgia (FM), pharmaceuticals are often the first line of defense. This is due to the fact that the condition is both difficult to diagnose and difficult to treat effectively. While pharmaceuticals can be an effective way to manage symptoms associated with FM, there are both positives and negatives associated with their use.

The primary positive of treating Fibromyalgia with pharmaceuticals is that they can be effective in reducing pain and fatigue associated with the condition. In addition, pharmaceuticals can also help to manage the mood swings, depression, and anxiety that often accompany the condition. This can help to improve a person’s overall quality of life.

However, there are also some drawbacks to treating Fibromyalgia with pharmaceuticals. One of the most concerning is the risk of addiction, especially in those who are prescribed opioids or similar medications. Additionally, there are often side effects associated with the use of pharmaceuticals, such as nausea, dizziness, and even memory loss. Finally, there is the issue of coming off the drugs, which can be difficult and may require medical supervision.

In conclusion, while pharmaceuticals can be an effective way to manage the symptoms of Fibromyalgia, they also come with risks that must be considered. Those considering taking pharmaceuticals should speak to their doctor about the potential risks and benefits before starting a course of treatment.

What is Fibromyalgia:

Fibromyalgia is a chronic disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, and numerous tender points on the body. It is estimated to affect nearly 5 million adults in the United States and is more commonly diagnosed in women than in men. Unfortunately, there is no single ‘cure’ for Fibromyalgia, but there are several medications available to help control the symptoms of this chronic disorder.

The most commonly prescribed pharmaceuticals for Fibromyalgia are:

1. Antidepressants: Antidepressants like amitriptyline, duloxetine, and milnacipran can help to reduce the pain and depression associated with Fibromyalgia. These medications work by increasing serotonin and norepinephrine levels in the brain, which can improve mood and reduce pain. Side effects may include nausea, dry mouth, constipation, and drowsiness.

2. Analgesics: Analgesics such as ibuprofen and naproxen are often prescribed to help reduce pain and inflammation associated with Fibromyalgia. These medications work by blocking certain chemicals in the body that cause pain and inflammation. Side effects may include heartburn, nausea, and stomach pain.

3. Anticonvulsants: Anticonvulsants such as pregabalin and gabapentin are commonly prescribed to help manage the pain associated with Fibromyalgia. These medications work by reducing the levels of certain brain chemicals that can cause pain. Side effects may include drowsiness and dizziness.

4. Muscle Relaxants: Muscle relaxants such as cyclobenzaprine and tizanidine are prescribed to help reduce pain and stiffness associated with Fibromyalgia. These medications work by blocking certain nerve signals that cause pain and stiffness. Side effects may include dry mouth, constipation, and drowsiness.

The above medications can help manage the symptoms of Fibromyalgia, but it is important to talk to your doctor before taking any medications to ensure they are right for you and that you are aware of any risks or side effects.

Common Alternatives to Medications:

Lifestyle modifications such as regular exercise, stress management, and a balanced diet can help to manage the symptoms of Fibromyalgia as well.

 

[Dooi]

On recommendation of some members I've created this pharmaceutical section and hope to build up the above "sticky" to include the most important and general information about treating Fibromyalgia with medications. Both the positives and negatives of such courses of treatment.

If anyone has anything to add or would like to contribute please let me know and we can build what's hopefully, a helpful resource for those affected by Fibromyalgia and related symptoms.

 

[johnsalmon]

Analgesics such as ibuprofen and naproxen

these have been around for many years ion my early days nsiad's have been used fore many years for spinal pain these can do harm to the stomach over time and are not usually in common use - ibuprofen is available over the counter in very low dosages for general pain ie headache etc but it is well below the dosage required for fibromyalgia pain.

Antidepressants seem to be common use for fibromyalgia overseas One can get a dependence on Antidepressants fairly quickly

 

[sunkacola]

Dooi - this is a great idea! Posted as a sticky like my advice post at the top of the General section, the two together will give newcomers balanced information, both on medication and on non-medication aids. Thanks for doing this.

 

[Dooi]

@johnsalmon thanks for the insight. If we can get a little more input we can update the message to be more up to date and accurate.

 

[Grace3]

Thank you for doing this