30-Second Blog “Snapshot:”
- Because there is no cure for fibromyalgia, physicians may recommend a number of treatments and behavioral therapies to control symptoms.
- To supplement interventional pain care, pain management specialists may also suggest prescription pain medication for total relief.
- Utah’s leading pain management group discusses medications and other treatment options that may be effective for fibromyalgia pain.
According to the American College of Rheumatology (ACR), fibromyalgia, a condition characterized by fatigue and widespread muscle pain, affects roughly 2-4% of the U.S. population. This is significant considering there are many individuals with fibromyalgia who do not have the access nor the resources to cope with the illness. Moreover, many primary care physicians may provide mismanaged care to those with fibromyalgia because symptoms can be confused with stress or a chronic condition such as lupus.
Regardless, when it comes to managing fibromyalgia, physicians should consider a multidisciplinary approach. Our team of pain management specialists believes medication is just one component to fibromyalgia treatment. A combination of treatment modalities such as medication, interventional care, behavioral medicine, alternative therapies, and in some cases, minimally invasive surgery, may provide the relief a patient needs.
When it comes to prescription medication for fibromyalgia pain, most physicians will consider prescribing pain medications, antidepressants, muscle relaxants, or sleep medicines to tackle specific, bothersome symptoms. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), there are three approved drugs for those with fibromyalgia: Lyrica, Cymbalta, and Savella.
These medications release neurotransmitters in the brain to help reduce pain and improve function. Lyrica was previously approved to treat seizures, and Cymbalta was previously approved to manage depression and anxiety. Savella became the first drug in 2009 to manage fibromyalgia pain. All three medications have received both good and bad reviews in regards to their effectiveness. It’s important for patients to discuss possible side effects, among other complications, with their physicians before considering any kind of prescription pain medication.
As alluded to previously, Southwest Spine and Pain Center values a multidisciplinary approach to care. Our team may recommend a number of treatment options to alleviate pain before prescribing a pain medication. Talk to your SWSP physician today to discuss treatment for your fibromyalgia.
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.