Monday, August 06, 2007

Fibromyalgia drug wins approval

The Washington Post
July 10, 2007

The first drug approved to treat fibromyalgia was given the go-ahead for marketing by the Food and Drug Administration last month. Lyrica, made by Pfizer, was approved several years ago to treat epilepsy, shingles pain and nerve pain related to diabetes. The federal agency okayed the new use after clinical trials showed some fibromyalgia patients had improved as well.

Other drugs shown effective in treating fibromyalgia include the antidepressant Cymbalta. Doctors often suggest exercise and acupuncture in addition to drugs.

Without insurance, the drug could cost $4 or more per day, based on Drugstore.com prices. Side effects include dizziness, sleepiness, blurred vision, weight gain, dry mouth and swelling of the hands and feet. The FDA advises patients to ask their doctor about the safety of driving while taking Lyrica.

More

No comments: