A multidisciplinary task force representing 11 European countries reviewed 146 studies focusing on fibromyalgia treatment, management and fibromyalgia clinical trials. Studies which did not utilize American College of Rheumatology (ACR) classification criteria or those which included chronic fatigue syndrome patients were not included in the review. According to the study (doi:10.1136/ard.2007.071522), first published online July 20, 2007 and updated October 3, 2007 in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (The European League Against Rheumatism / EULAR journal), the task force made 9 recommendations for the management of fibromyalgia based on the review.

• To understand fibromyalgia completely, there should be evaluation of pain, function, and psychosocial aspects.
• Fibromyalgia treatment should employ both pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic interventions and be tailored to the individual patient.
• Heated pool treatment with or without exercise is effective.
• Individually tailored exercise programs are helpful.
• Cognitive behavioral therapy may help some patients.
• Based on individual needs, relaxation, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and psychological support may be needed.

The medication Tramadol (Ultram) is recommended for pain management while corticosteroids and strong analgesics are not recommended. Antidepressants are recommended because they can decrease fibromyalgia pain and improve function. The drugs pramipexole (Mirapex) and pregabalin (Lyrica) are recommended to treat fibromyalgia pain. Although not available in the U.S., the drug tropisetron (Navoban) also was recommended to treat fibromyalgia pain.

Related Resources:

• How is Fibromyalgia Treated?
• Test Your Knowledge: Fibromyalgia
• Fibromyalgia 101: Free E-Course Newsletter
• 10 Things You Should Know About Fibromyalgia
• How to Recognize the Signs and Symptoms of Fibromyalgia

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