Approaching Management of Fibromyalgia and Unmet Needs in Treatment

This is a video synopsis of a discussion involving Daniel J. Clauw, MD, a professor of anesthesiology, medicine/rheumatology, and psychiatry at the University of Michigan. Dr. Clauw discusses the treatment approaches for fibromyalgia, emphasizing the increasing understanding that non-drug therapies are likely preferable in conjunction with pharmaceutical interventions.

He identifies three general categories of drugs that may be helpful for fibromyalgia: tricyclic drugs, serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), and gabapentinoids. Dr. Clauw introduces the concept of drugs as a "chemical nudge," helping individuals with fibromyalgia manage symptoms such as fatigue, pain, and sleep disturbances, enabling them to engage in non-drug therapies effectively. Non-pharmacologic strategies, including improving sleep, increasing activity levels, and stress reduction, play a significant role in managing fibromyalgia and nociplastic pain.

Dr. Clauw acknowledges the challenges in fibromyalgia care, including delayed identification and treatment initiation. He stresses the importance of early identification and aggressive treatment to prevent the accumulation of psychosocial factors that exacerbate pain and complicate treatment. Despite progress, there is still a need to overcome physician misunderstandings and reduce the stigma associated with fibromyalgia, advocating for a comprehensive approach to improve the lives of individuals with fibromyalgia-like pain.

Video synopsis is AI-generated and reviewed by HCPLive® editorial staff.