Fibromyalgia Ptsd Insomnia Migraines Chronic Pain Medication
(Newest replies first)

Updated

I'm seeing my pain doctor and psychiatrist this week to get on a proper pain regimen for debilitating fibromyalgia, severe insomnia with central sleep apnea, PTSD/anxiety from significant abuse I'm working through, chronic daily headaches (advanced migraines), and chronic pain from multiple surgeries (pelvic, back, neck...) Because my doctors don't collaborate I need to suggest options to them. I am sensitive to many medications and have tried a lot over the years. I want my life back. I'm smart and resourceful and at my wits end.

I'm on low dose Seroquel for sleep - too much daytime sedation, as Ambien and Trazodone don't work. I'm also on Tramadol, Ativan and Skelaxin during the day. I can't drive, work or function well on this plan. Amitriptyline causes way too much sedation during the day and I can't use Lyrica, Gabapentin or NSAIDs.

Any suggestions that will have less impact on my quality of life? I need a better plan that works with my limited resources. I am on Medicaid and workplace disability now. I also have good counseling and spiritual support - just no social support.

I am considering Cymbalta and Zanaflex, with something for sleep (Temazepam?). Ambien, melatonin, natural remedies and antihistamines aren't working. I'm concerned about what to take while I'm waiting for the Cymbalta to take effect of the fibro, anxiety, depression and pain. Does this sound like a reasonable plan?

2 Replies

Earliest Newest Votes
2

Cymbalta did nothing for my fibromyalgia or anxiety. I tried most of those meds and got nothing but side effects. I see this is an older post. I hope you found some relief.

Was this helpful? 0
1

Hello, Marcat! How are you? How did your appointment go?

Zanaflex is another muscle relaxant, just like the Skelaxin, so I'm not sure how big of a different it will make. The FDA lists its typical side effects as possibly including nausea, dizziness, headache and dry mouth.

Have you considered trying a stronger opiate, such as Oxycodone? Maybe just a low dose, until the Cymbalta has time to start working.

The FDA warns that Oxycodone carries the risk of being habit forming and may cause side effects, such as nausea, dizziness, headache, dry mouth and constipation.

Does anyone else have any suggestions to offer?

Was this helpful? 0

More Discussions:

pain medication in s nj fibromyalgia

I am 25, 120lbs 5'6". healthy. and told I have fibromyalgia. I am looking for a doctor that will understand that...

1 REPLY
Can I please get some information for Dr's in the Seattle area that prescribe pain medication I get severe weather related migraines Sciatica

Hi. I get severe migraines during the rainy season ( I know, Seattle? Basically ALL the time...) I also have sciatica an...

1 REPLY
Fibromyalgia what medication helps?

What is a good medication for Fibromyalgia? I use to actually take a Pain Sucker from my doctor in Kentucky, but since I...

2 REPLIES
Pain medication for chronic back pain

I have had major back surgery. I had 4 fusions. I have 12 3" screws in me. I'm still in chronic pain. What is a ...

3 REPLIES
Chronic pain and pain medication - Most liberal States?

I am so frustrated with how I have to worry regarding if or will my pain meds be cut off or not. I want to find out who ...

1 REPLY
Demand that chronic pain sufferers get their pain medication now!

Hi, I just started a petition on Care2: Demand that chronic pain sufferers get their medications now!!. I'm hoping t...

16 REPLIES
looking for a doctor who will prescribe pain medication chronic back due to lower back injury. Need a doctor in Indiana pennsylvania

Doctor retiring and need a new doctor who will prescribe the pain meds for my back. I injured my lower back in a logging...

3 REPLIES
Help others in getting their pain medications go to care2petitionsite and sign demand that chronic suffers get medication now

Here it is, your sincere effort to help us all get back our right to having our pain medications now!! sign this petitio...

248 REPLIES
migraines/ fibromyalgia

Yes, I have, and am presently taking topamax for miraines and extremely bad cluster migraines, I spent four days in the ...

3 REPLIES
Fibromyalgia/migraines- what's helped me

I have Fibromyalgia and Chronic migraines, as well as sleep problems, night terrors, and REALLY bad eye sight Lol. Not s...

1 REPLY