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By Jane Thompson
Chronic pain, such as that experienced by people with fibromyalgia is often only remedied by medication. Depending on the severity of the condition and the number of symptoms different doses and combinations of drugs may be used. Since fibromyalgia tends to be a chronic condition, many patients will need to take fibromyalgia pain medications for long periods of time. This makes it especially important for them to consult with their doctors about their medications and expected side effects.
Side effects of medications used for fibromyalgia
Every drug has side effects that can vary depending on the people using them. It all depends on the person’s specific body makeup, overall health and even allergies, if they have them.
For fibromyalgia medication to become an effective treatment to the disorder, these side effects must be known and understood. Here are the commonly used fibromyalgia medications and their known side effects:
Non-opioids
Fibromyalgia medications that are considered non-opioids include acetaminophen, ibuprofen and aspirin. These are all used to treat pain and may be obtained over-the-counter or with a prescription. While they are effective against pain, some non-opioids can cause gastrointestinal problems that can lead to stomach upset and even bleeding. They can also trigger asthma and cause nausea and vomiting.
Acetaminophens have milder side effects but if they are taken in high doses, they can affect the liver. You should avoid alcohol and stick to the recommended dosages.
Anti-depressants
Anti-depressants are often prescribed in conjunction with other fibromyalgia medications for their calming effect. They are also effective in inducing sleep and helping patients to feel relaxed. As a result, sufferers sleep better and feel less fatigued during the day. Some of the risks of using anti-depressants include constipation, dizziness, lightheadedness and mouth dryness.
Sleep modifiers
Sleep modifiers are often prescribed along with fibromyalgia medications if insomnia is a problem. While they are effective for inducing sleep and minimizing fatigue, sleep modifiers are only prescribed as short-term treatment because they can be habit forming.
They can also cause withdrawal effects on people who have been using them for some time and suddenly stop. They are not recommended for intake during times when the patient has to be outdoors driving, riding a public transportation or working in an area where sleepiness might result to an accident.
Anti-spastic
Anti-spastic drugs are sometimes used with other fibromyalgia medications to ease uncomfortable muscle spasms and control burning or tingling sensations that result from a nerve injury. If taken in high dosage for a long period of time, they can cause liver problems and lower white and red blood cells.
Steroids
Steroids help reduce pain caused by swelling or inflammation. On the downside, they can cause fluid build-up, stomach irritation, muscle weakness and bleeding. In some patients, steroids may also cause confusion.
Opioids
If patients do not respond to lower-dose fibromyalgia medication to treat pain, doctors may sometimes prescribe opioids, which are effective against moderate to severe pain. Opioids like morphine, codeine, methadone, hydromorphone and hydrocodone are very effective in reducing pain but patients may not find their side effects pleasant. Some of these include drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, constipation, itching and urination problems. Because they can be addictive, they are also not prescribed for regular use.
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The side effects of fibromyalgia pain medication can be problematic so it will be a decision that you and your doctor make as to whether a particular treatments benefits will outweigh any possible side effects.
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