Questions posted in the Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum have been answered by doctors from The Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

Subject: Re: What can I take for the pain? I need to sleep!
Forum: The Neurology and Neurosurgery Forum
Topic Area: Fibromyalgia
Posted by CCF neuro MD* on November 02, 1998 at 18:10:47:
In Reply to: What can I take for the pain? I need to sleep! posted by MS'er on November 01, 1998 at 02:38:06:



I have MS, Fibromylagia and Osteoarthritis. My MS was diag in 1986, the arthritis/Fibro. a few years before or after? this. The rheum. I went to put me on Flexaril, anti-flam. and pain medication, I think darvocet. After some years they stopped helping my Fibro pain and I stopped sleeping well. Have been sleeping on the floor most of the time now as this is only place I seem to be able to get any sleep.

Currently taking Ultram, anti-flam., Blood pres. med., Zoloft (for 4wks) & Norfles. Paxil was the first one I tried and it seemed to help with the pain but it did not mix well with the Ultram. My Psyc. does not want to put me on a diff. pain med. as she said it would be addictive and Ultram is'nt and she takes care of the medication management.

Any suggestions would really help, I am at my wits end, I need sleep and rest!

Dear Ms'er,

I am sorry to hear that you are uncomfortable and having difficulty sleeping. Treatment with moderate doses of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (which you are taking) and perhaps a short course of physical therapy and massage may help. This should be combined with a small dose of amitryptiline or nortriptyline (10-50mg) depending on your age, together with a morning antidepressant (Zoloft is a good choice). With this regimine, most patients with fibromyalgia obtain greater than 50% relief. Discuss these options with your doctor. Due to your discomfort level, I recommend that you get in touch with him soon. Good Luck.


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