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Medication Used to Treat Fibromyalgia

Wednesday, August 05, 2009
 

Instructions

Types

  • Step 1:
    There are three main types of drugs used to treat fibromyalgia: analgesics, antidepressants and anti-seizure drugs.

Function

  • Step 1:
    Analgesic drugs function by blocking pain sensation messages from reaching the brain. Although doctors do not understand precisely why, anti-seizure drugs and antidepressants also assist in relieving pain caused by fibromyalgia.

Identification

  • Step 1:
    Some doctors recommend over-the-counter acetaminophen products, while others may prescribe prescription-strength Ultram as an analgesic. Some of the antidepressants used are Prozac, Cymbalta and Savella. Lyrica and Neurontin are the most frequently used anti-seizure drugs to treat fibromyalgia.

Side Effects

  • Step 1:
    Over-the-counter analgesics often become less effective with continual use, while some prescription strength pain relievers are habit forming. Common side effects of antidepressants or anti-seizure drugs include dizziness, drowsiness, anxiety, diarrhea and nausea.

Considerations

  • Step 1:
    Not every patient responds to every kind of medication used to treat fibromyalgia; there is a chance your doctor will try a number of drugs before finding the right one.

Resources


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