Understanding the Side Effects of Fibromyalgia Medications
There are currently three prescription medications approved specifically for the treatment of fibromyalgia: Lyrica, Cymbalta, and Savella. Other drugs may be prescribed off-label, but these three have FDA approval for fibromyalgia management.
As with any medication, these treatments come with potential side effects. As Dr. Eduardo Fraifeld of the American Academy of Pain Medicine puts it, “The drug with no side effects is only in our imagination.”
Below is an overview of commonly prescribed fibromyalgia medications and their known side effects:
Lyrica
Lyrica was the first FDA-approved drug for fibromyalgia. While it has shown promise—helping reduce pain by 50% in about 30% of users—it is not a cure, and side effects are common.
-
Dizziness is one of the most frequently reported issues. In clinical trials, 31% of participants experienced it.
-
Weight gain is another concern. Since many people with fibromyalgia already struggle with weight, this side effect can worsen the problem and negatively affect self-esteem.
-
Drowsiness was experienced by about 22% of users in studies.
-
Cognitive issues, such as mental fog or lack of clarity, may be heightened. Fibro fog is already a common symptom, and medications like Lyrica can sometimes intensify it.
-
Swelling in the hands, feet, or legs has also been reported.
Cymbalta and Savella
These two medications are classified as SNRIs (serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors) and are designed to help manage pain and improve sleep in fibromyalgia patients. However, side effects can be significant.
-
Upset stomach and nausea are among the most common side effects. In fact, 20–25% of users stop taking the medication due to these reactions.
-
Increased blood pressure is a risk, particularly with Cymbalta. Regular monitoring is recommended.
-
Elevated heart rate or palpitations may occur, especially with Savella.
-
Dry mouth is another common side effect. While it may seem minor, chronic dryness can lead to dental issues, including cavities and, in severe cases, tooth loss.
Additional Considerations
All three FDA-approved fibromyalgia medications carry warnings about a potential increase in suicidal thoughts or behaviors, particularly when treatment begins or doses are adjusted. This is a serious concern that should be monitored closely by healthcare professionals.
Seeking Alternative Support
While medication can offer relief for some, it’s not the only approach. Addressing underlying structural issues in the spine and nervous system may provide additional benefits. NUCCA care, for example, focuses on correcting the Atlas Subluxation Complex—a misalignment in the upper neck that can affect the entire body’s function.
At Advanced Spinal Care, we specialize in gentle, non-invasive NUCCA chiropractic techniques that may help reduce fibromyalgia symptoms naturally.
Ready to explore a different approach? Schedule your NUCCA evaluation today.
Want to hear from people like you? Check out our patient results here.
Dr. Craig Lapenski at Advanced Spinal Care, in Graham, Washington is one of 27 Board Certified NUCCA Doctors worldwide. His clinic serves the highest quality upper cervical care in the Pacific Northwest. Dr. Lapenski also serves a number of patients who are out of state including Alaska, Arizona, California, Hawaii, Kansas, Montana, Nevada, New York, and more! He is uniquely trained to correct problems in the upper cervical spine (upper neck). This vital area is intimately connected to the central nervous system and problems in this area have been shown to be an underlying cause of a variety of different health problems, including migraines, headaches, fibromyalgia, vertigo, neck pain, back pain, and more. More information can be found on our website at https://www.nuccawashington.com/