💢 Fibromyalgia

Commonly prescribed medications, what to avoid, and lifestyle guidance

📋 Overview

Fibromyalgia causes widespread musculoskeletal pain, fatigue, sleep problems, and cognitive difficulties. The cause is central sensitization — the nervous system amplifies pain signals.

💊 Commonly Prescribed Medications

Duloxetine (Cymbalta)SNRI

FDA-approved for fibromyalgia. Reduces pain and fatigue.

Pregabalin (Lyrica)Nerve Pain

FDA-approved for fibromyalgia. Reduces pain and improves sleep.

Milnacipran (Savella)SNRI

FDA-approved specifically for fibromyalgia.

Amitriptyline (low dose)Low-dose TCA

Low dose at bedtime. Improves sleep and reduces pain.

Gabapentin (Neurontin)Nerve Pain

Off-label for fibromyalgia. Helps with sleep and pain.

🚫 What to Avoid

Opioids worsen fibromyalgia over time — avoid. NSAIDs have limited effectiveness. Alcohol worsens fatigue and sleep quality.

🥗 Lifestyle Tips

Aerobic exercise is the single most effective treatment — start very slowly. CBT, sleep hygiene, warm water therapy, stress management.

📋 Important Note

Fibromyalgia is real — brain imaging shows real differences in pain processing. Opioids make fibromyalgia worse over time.

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