Fibromyalgia: Conventional and Prescription Medications

Several medications may be prescribed in combination to relieve the pain, depression, and insomnia associated with fibromyalgia. These medicines may cause depletion of certain nutrients. Following is a list of common conventional medicines that may be used for fibromyalgia:

Pain and anti-inflammatory medications

Acetaminophen (Tylenol^®) – Nutrients depleted: Glutathione, which plays a critical part in the detoxification and anti-oxidation processes of the enzyme system.⁵ Follow the product label’s instructions carefully. Taking higher doses than what is recommended on the label may lead to possible liver damage.⁶
Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) – These reduce pain as well as inflammation.
- Over-the-counter NSAIDs: Naproxen (Aleve^®, Anaprox^®, Naprelan^®, and Naprosyn^®) and Ibuprofen (Advil^®, Motrin^®, and Nupren^®) – These are the most commonly used NSAIDs. Nutrients depleted include folic acid.⁷
- Aspirin – Aspirin reduces inflammation, suppresses fever, and acts as an anticoagulant. Nutrients depleted: Folic acid, iron, potassium, sodium, and vitamin C. Note: The prolonged use of aspirin comes with an increased risk of gastrointestinal bleeding.^3,5

WARNING: Before taking any NSAID, consult your pharmacist for specific instructions on their proper use and risks. In April of 2005, the FDA issued warnings and made changes to protect the public against the risks of taking prescription and over-the-counter NSAIDs. In particular, NSAIDs can carry an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and gastrointestinal bleeding.⁵

Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs):

Amitriptyline – brand name Elavil^®
Fluoxetine – brand name Prozac^®

Low-dose tricyclic antidepressants:

Imipramine – brand name Tofranil^®
Nortriptyline – brand name Pamelor^®
Desipramine – brand name Norpramin^{® 9}

Anti-seizure medications: It’s not known exactly how anti-seizure medications work to reduce pain. In some patients, taking several anti-seizure medications may work better than taking just one alone.¹⁰

Gabapentin – brand name Neurontin^®
Lamotrigine – brand name Lamictal^®
Tiagabine – brand name Gabitril^®
Topiramate – brand name Topamax^®
Carbamazepine – brand name Carbatrol, Tegretol^®
Clonazepam – brand name Klonopin^®
Valproic acid – brand name Depakote^®
Phenytoin – brand name Dilantin^®

Additional Information about Fibromyalgia