30-Second Blog “Snapshot:”
- According to the National Pain Report, melatonin may reduce pain and insomnia in patients suffering from fibromyalgia.
- Melatonin is a natural hormone that helps the body regulate sleep and wake cycles.
- Utah’s leading pain management group at Southwest Spine and Pain Center discusses whether or not melatonin helps fibromyalgia pain and insomnia.
Most patients living with fibromyalgia report symptoms other than pain, such as fatigue, irritability, mood changes, and insomnia. For these patients, it may be difficult to concentrate, fall asleep, or receive a restful night’s sleep, which may exacerbate pain symptoms. Fortunately, a study published in the journal BMC Pharmacology and Toxicology revealed melatonin may reduce pain in fibromyalgia patients.
The study examined the sleep patterns of 63 women over the course of six weeks. These women were divided into three groups: one group received 10mg of melatonin, another group received 25mg of amitriptyline (an antidepressant), and another group received a combination of 10mg of melatonin and 25mg of amitriptyline. The results of the study found patients in the melatonin groups reported lower levels of pain.
These patients took melatonin every day and did not skip dosages. Although that fact may not seem significant, it’s important patients understand that prolonged use of melatonin may not be safe in certain situations. Melatonin supplements are not reviewed or approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so patients should remain vigilant in managing their pain symptoms and staying safe.
Patients suffering from intense, debilitating fibromyalgia pain should see a specialist at Southwest Spine and Pain Center today! The team will evaluate your symptoms by performing a series of tests. Following the evaluation, an SWSP physician will be able to determine an appropriate treatment plan that may include a combination of interventional, behavioral health, and rehabilitative pain management therapies. Call Southwest Spine and Pain Center to schedule an appointment today!
If chronic pain is impacting your life, don't wait to schedule an appointment at Southwest Spine and Pain Center. With multiple locations across the state of Utah, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to! To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab!
The advice and information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace or counter a physician’s advice or judgment. Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.