Treatment for Fibromyalgia varies greatly among patients and is mostly aimed at symptom management. Studies have shown that comprehensive treatment plans that include prescription medications, behavior modification, exercise or physical therapy, and alternative medicine are most effective at providing symptom relief. Different categories of antidepressants have been shown to improve pain, fatigue, sleep disturbances, and depression in patients with Fibromyalgia. Those that are the most effective, however, such as the tryciclic class of antidepressants, (Amitriptyline) present with side-effects that may not be tolerable among some patients. Other prescription medications used to treat Fibromyalgia include muscle relaxants (Cyclobenzabrine), pain medication (Naproxin), anti-seizure medication (Neurontin, Lyrica), and dopamine agonists (Mirapex and ReQuip). Trials of new prescription drug treatments are ongoing. Opiod pain medication is used when no other option has been effective and at the lowest doses possible to provide relief to the patient. Another method for treating Fibromyalgia is Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), which may include psychological treatment to address anxiety or depression, and working to alter sleep habits. Patients who increase or begin an exercise regimen report improved sleep patterns and pain relief. Physical therapy may serve as a resource to help relieve pain and establish a physical fitness routine. Finally, while there are no clinical trials that prove the effectiveness of alternative treatments, patients report a high level of effectiveness for treatments such as massage, acupuncture, yoga, meditation, specialty diets, and T'ai Chi.
