Aripiprazole and fibromyalgia

[sherrisix]

I have just been given a small dose of Aripiprazole for depression ( larger amounts would be for people suffering from bipolar or schizofrenia).

And am amazed to say my fibro pains are better! My pains have gone to about half of normal. As I have just started taking these meds under 2 weeks ago, am not sure if this will be long-trem effect or not.

But would be very curious to know if anybody else have had help with this. Many thanks. ( Ps. I do get side effects, though. Insomnia, slight shivering and increased appetite)

[Hazel_Angelstar Administrator FMA UK Staff]

It's not a medication I'm familiar with, but antidepressants are one of the main medication types used to treat fibromyalgia pain

[sherrisix in reply to Hazel_Angelstar]

Thank you so much! This is something that should be looked into in more detail by medical professionals!

[Hazel_Angelstar Administrator FMA UK Staff in reply to sherrisix]

There is a lot of research that covers the use of anti depressants for chronic pain/fibromyalgia

[Sparklingsunshine]

Just been reading up on this it seems as though in very low doses, Aripiprazole is a dopamine antagonist, ie stops the body from absorbing the neurotransmitter dopamine, meaning more is available for the body.

Low Dopamine is linked with fatigue, increased pain, brain fog and post exertional malaise. It had a big trial a few years ago in the US for ME/CFS and 75% of participants noticed improvements, which is promising. However it wasnt a double blind study so not gold standard.

In much lower doses than those used for schizophrenia (15-30mg) it had fewer side effects and was generally well tolerated. Doses were around 0.2 to 1.5mg daily. Weight gain and increased appetite seemed to affect a number of trial participants. Sounds not disimilar to low dose Naltrexone in its execution.

Can I ask was this prescribed via a GP, or consultant on NHS? Or privately?

[sherrisix in reply to Sparklingsunshine]

Wow, amazing information! Thank you so very much! I was prescribed 5mg per day by NHS consultant for depression/anxiety etc. I was not aware that it would also help for my fibro. My pains are about half of what they used to be, as is my use of painkillers. I will keep everybody updated if this continues. Have a great day everybody!

[Yassytina FMA UK Volunteer]

Hello, I am glad too read this is helping you right now, and the information I have read about this from members experiences, we do certaintly aim too try something that helps us for sure. I have been on duloxtene and that has really helped me in keeping my focus and coping with fibro and other health conditions.

[saj01]

Hi

Apparently it's an anti psychotic. It raises serotonin etc. so will make you feel better and sleep better. . like everything it comes with some side effects esp long term use.

Take care x

[LaurieLee]

Hi, I’m glad it has helped you. I personally found that I put on a lot of weight very quickly and my appetite went through the roof. Eventually I came off it, due to that side effect, as I was already too big caused by meds in the past. So just be mindful of that.

[sherrisix in reply to LaurieLee]

Yes, I totally understand that. My appetite has gone through the roof too,and even my stomach is gurgling from hunger, even if I have just eaten! I am hoping this will calm down with time. Hope you will manage to find something else to help with your pains!