FDA Approves First Drug to Treat Fibromyalgia: Lyrica
Tuesday, October 23, 2007
JC Jones MA RN
Millions of people suffer from the mysterious, chronic condition of fibromyalgia. There is no known cause for this syndrome of chronic pain, fatigue and sleeping difficulties - and no definitive treatment. On June 21, 2007, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved use of Pfizer's Lyrica (pregabalin) to treat fibromyalgia. Lyrica has been found to decrease pain and improve function for people with the condition.
Most fibromyalgia patients are women and researchers believe it may be the result of brain changes in the response to chronic stress that result in chronic pain and fatigue. The most common side effects of Lyrica are dizziness and drowsiness. Some people experience swelling of the hands and feet, blurred vision, weight gain or dry mouth. Lyrica is also used as an anticonvulsant and for treating neuralgia (nerve pain) due to shingles and diabetic neuropathy.
Pfizer is doing further studies to test the safety and effectiveness of Lyrica for children and breastfeeding women with fibromyalgia.
Thank you cameradawktor for use of photo.
Labels: fibromyalgia, Lyrica
