|
Antidepressents
|
|
These medications are commonly used to help control the pain and insomnia related to fibromyalgia and Still's. Research has shown that a combination of 1 tricyclic and 1 SSRI is more effective than either one alone. TRICYCLIC ANTI-DEPRESSANTS
Elavil (Amitriptyline)
dose is typically 25 to 50 mg per night. Elavil is known for pain relieving
effects and ability to help sleep. This medication should be taken early in the
evening, or half-dose in the evening and the other half at bedtime to avoid
morning hangover. Flexeril
(Cyclobenzaprine)
dose is usually 10 to 30 mg per night. A tricyclic drug similar to Elavil with
muscle relaxant qualities. May be taken along with Elavil to provide muscle
relaxant relief. This medication usually reaches its maximum effect after one to
two weeks of continuous use. Sinequan (Doxepin)
a typical dose is 25 to 75 mg. Also a tricyclic that functions in the body as
an antihistamine. Available in tablet form as well as liquid. Pamelor
(Nortriptyline)
the usual dose is 10 to 50 mg per night. Similar effects as Elavil but may be
less sedating. Desyrel
(Trazodone)
the usual dose is 25 mg to 50 mg per night. Desyrel is as effective as the other
anti-depressants, however, is chemically different and may be less likely to
cause side effects. Desyrel is a mild stimulant and may make a sleep problem
worse if combined with a tricyclic anti-depressant at night. Many of the tricyclic
anti-depressants have side effects that may be intolerable for some people.
These include constipation, drowsiness, dry mouth and eyes, headache, heart rate
abnormalities, increased sensitivity to sunlight, morning "hangover,"
and weight gain. These side effects may improve after patients have been using
the medication for a few weeks. If not, the doctor should be consulted regarding
another medication. SEROTONIN-BOOSTING MEDICATIONS
Paxil
(Paroxetine
hydrochloride) the usual dose is 5 to 20 mg in the morning.. This medication is
the most potent of this type. A sedating medication may be needed at night in
conjunction with Paxil. It can cause nervousness, insomnia, nausea, sexual
difficulties and sweating, although many patients report having fewer side
effects with Paxil as compared to Prozac. Zoloft (Sertraline)
50 to 200 mg is the usual dosage. Anecdotally proven helpful for some patients.
Sedating medication may also be needed to combat insomnia. Serzone
(Nefazodone)
is the newest of these agents. As well as increasing serotonin, it also
increases norespinephrine. Serzone's efficacy and side effects are similar to
Effexor. Effexor
(venlafaxine
hydrochloride) the usual dose is 27.5 mg two times per day. This dosage can be
adjusted, depending on the effects. Effexor is not related to the tricyclics or
the Prozac-like drugs, however, it does boost serotonin and has tricyclic
properties. The typical side effects are nervousness, anxiety, insomnia and
increased blood pressure. The following are some of the side effects of serotonin boosting medications: anxiety/nervousness, headache, insomnia, mood swings, sexual difficulties, nausea and stomach distress. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
DISCLAIMER: The materials and information on this server are intended for educational and informational purposes only. The materials and information are not intended to replace the services of a trained health professional or to be a substitute for medical advice of physicians and/or other health care professionals. The International Still's Disease Foundation is not engaged in rendering medical or professional medical services. You should consult your physician on specific medical questions, particularly in matters requiring diagnosis or medical attention. The International Still's Disease Foundation makes no representations or warranties with respect to any treatment, action, application medication or preparation by any person following the information offered or provided within this website. Any information used from other websites was done so with permission from each site, with an exception to those of "public domain", whereas we believe any site without a cited reference was a "public domain site" and for our use. The International Still's Disease Foundation is a non-profit organization. This page was last updated on January 17, 2001 Copyright© 1999-2001 International Still's Disease Foundation |