Flare....how long will this last

[nellie_deany]

I am currently having one of the worst flares of fibromyalgia I have ever had. The pain and fatigue are unbearable. My GP has suggested that I try taking Duloxetine. But the problem is that I have to wean my current SSRI first and I know that is going to be awful as I have done it before. How long will this flare last and has anyone any experience of Duloxetine??. Thanks in advance 💜💜

[Hazel_Angelstar Administrator FMA UK Staff]

Sorry you are struggling so much. Unfortunately there is no answer to how long it will last. Duloxetine, like all meds works better for some people than others. I personally could not tolerate it due to side effects, but I know it helps others

[Colourpink66]

Hi Nellie-Deany so sorry to hear how bad you’re feeling hun , I was given duloxetin last year I found it really good, I was extremely low at the time and I felt better physically and mentally after taking them , I was taking Prozac at the time and just stopped them and started taking the duloxetin , perhaps you could suggest to your doctor if you can do that, good luck hope they work for you. Just take one day at a time and know it will get better ❤️‍🩹

[Tootiepie]

Hi, firstly I am so sorry that you are suffering from such a bad flare-up! The main problem is that there are no answers as to how long it will last. However, I have found that relinquishing yourself to the pain and not fighting it both physically and mentally will support a recovery. Easier said than fine but it is a mind over body issue. Acceptance goes a long way to relaxing your body and helps with the healing process. As for coming off your normal tablets to try Duloxatine I completely understand your concerns. I too was in the exact same position only last year (during a bad flare up). Firstly raise your concerns with your GP so that your reduction can be well managed through lesser mgs of tablets. Sadly the Duloxatine did not work for myself, as I had terrible migraines with it, and had to return to my original tablets once again. However, I have read many success stories from patients using Duloxatine, so don’t be out off. I do not regret trying - no matter how hard, as I’m willing to try anything that might help.

Don’t do it on your own, make sure you keep in contact with your Dr when reducing your original tablets - they should be able to help with the switch over.

[Elaine200756 in reply to Tootiepie]

I have found that surrendering to the pain during a flare works and helps with coping rather than trying to fight against it. Acceptance of what is, is key for me xx

[Cotswolds25121]

Hi, yes I was put on duloxetine about 4 months ago and felt the benefit within a few days. I was originally on 60mg daily and this has been upped to another 30mg of an evening. Personally it has had a good effect with my lower back pain which is a godsend unfortunately coincidentally 🤷‍♀️I am now suffering with upper back pains too but it has definitely helped ease my lower back pain. Obviously won’t work for everyone but I am grateful for being prescribed it.

[Elaine200756]

I agree with Angel-star, I couldn't tolerate it either but it really helps other people including my friend Moira. I'm so sorry to hear you are suffering so much and my thoughts and prayers are with you xx 🤗