Re: What can I take for the pain? I need to sleep!

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 (fibromyalgia) 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.