02 Dec The Current State of Research for Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia syndrome is a common and chronic disorder characterized by widespread pain, diffuse tenderness, and a number of other symptoms. Although fibromyalgia is often considered an arthritis-related condition, it is not truly a form of arthritis because it does not cause inflammation or damage to the joints, muscles, or other tissues. Like arthritis, however, fibromyalgia can cause significant pain and fatigue, and it can interfere with a person’s ability to carry on daily activities.

Fibromyalgia can be difficult to treat.  Only three medications, Duloxetine, Milnacipran, and Pregabalin, are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of fibromyalgia.  Duloxetine was originally developed for and is still used to treat depression. Milnacipran is similar to a drug used to treat depression but is FDA approved only for fibromyalgia. Pregaballin is a medication developed to treat chronic pain caused by damage to the nervous system.  Doctors also treat fibromyalgia with a variety of other medications developed and approved for other purposes or “off-label”.

Although they should not be considered a first line treatment option, often physicians will recommend nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium.  This class of drugs work by inhibiting prostaglandins, easing pain and reducing inflammation.

In short, there is no easy answer to combating the debilitating chronic pain and fatigue that comes with fibromyalgia.  Currently, there are several new treatments being pursued by the medical research community.

Understanding pain. New research suggests that fibromyalgia is caused by a problem in how the body processes pain; it is thought that the body develops a hypersensitivity to stimuli that is not usually painful to others. Researchers are investigating why the body processes pain differently to better understand why people with fibromyalgia have increased pain sensitivity.

Increasing exercise. Although the fatigue that comes with fibromyalgia makes exercise almost impossible, exercise can actually be one of the most beneficial treatments for the condition. Researchers are trying to determine whether increasing daily physical activity can alleviate symptoms.

Improving sleep. Many people with fibromyalgia continue to have sleep problems despite treatment with medications. Researchers are looking into whether continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) often used for those with sleep apnea might improve the symptoms of fibromyalgia.

Opioids.  There is a limited amount of scientific research addressing the use of opiates in the treatment of Fibromyalgia.  The combination of Tramadol and Paracetemol has demonstrated some efficacy, safety and tolerability (for up to two years in the management of other pain conditions) without the development of tolerance.

The Institute for Advanced Medical Research is currently conducting clinical trials for those who struggle with the symptoms of Fibromyalgia.  These trials may be an important option for those who have not found relief thus far.  To learn more about the trials currently going on call 770-817-9200 to speak with our nurse Barbara.