Opinion
Video
Treatment Selection and Strategy for Fibromyalgia Agents
Author(s):
Daniel J. Clauw, MD, shares his approach to selecting FDA approved therapeutic agents for fibromyalgia treatment and his clinical treatment strategy when first-line pharmacological therapy fails.
This is a video synopsis of a discussion involving Daniel J. Clauw, MD, a professor of anesthesiology, medicine/rheumatology, and psychiatry at the University of Michigan. Dr. Clauw addresses the pharmacologic treatment approach for fibromyalgia, focusing on the three classes of drugs: tricyclics, gabapentinoids, and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs).
He suggests tailoring drug selection based on predominant symptoms. For individuals with sleep issues, initiating treatment with a tricyclic drug or a gabapentinoid at a low dose at bedtime is recommended. Alternatively, if symptoms lean toward depression, fatigue, or memory problems, starting with an SNRI, such as duloxetine or milnacipran, may be more beneficial. Dr. Clauw highlights the difference between the two SNRIs, with milnacipran being more noradrenergic, potentially aiding fatigue and memory problems.
However, he emphasizes the importance of starting with low doses and adjusting gradually to minimize side effects. If the first-line pharmacologic therapy proves ineffective, Dr. Clauw advocates exploring the other two classes to determine their efficacy. While data supports matching drug classes to specific symptom profiles, he acknowledges that individual responses may vary, encouraging a flexible and personalized approach to fibromyalgia pharmacotherapy.
Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by HCPLive® editorial staff.
