New hope for fibromyalgia

In a study published in the August issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism, Pacific Rheumatology Associates in Renton, Washington has announced that Mirapex (pramipexole) reduced pain and fatigue and improved function in some patients with fibromyalgia. Pramipexole is a drug commonly used to treat Parkinson’s Disease and is in a class of drugs called dopamine3 receptor agonists.

Fibromyalgia is a widespread musculoskeletal pain and fatigue disorder. It is often a diagnosis by elimination, after other diseases have been ruled out. The cause of the condition is unknown. Until now, treatment has consisted mainly of antidepressants, anti-inflammatories and pain medication.

I’ve had it for about 6 years.

From Eurkealert:

The pramipexole group noted significantly decreased pain compared to the placebo group at the end of the study: at least a 50% decrease in pain was achieved by 42% of this group compared with 14% of the placebo group, as measured by the pain score on the visual analog scale (VAS). Overall, 82% of the patients taking pramipexole noted some improvement in pain, compared with 57% of the placebo group. In addition, other scales measuring fibromyalgia symptoms and mental status showed an improvement in the group taking the drug. Pramipexole was well tolerated, with the most common side effect being weight loss and nausea.

This seems to explain the big improvement I’ve had with my fibro since switching psych drugs. What I take now are also dopamine receptor drugs, and I’ve had better mobility and less pain–as well as less confusion–since I’ve been on them.

This is study signals there may actually be a treatment for fibromyalgia itself, instead of medicating the symptoms. Watch this space for more information as it becomes available.

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