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Pfalzgraf AR, Friend R, Jones KD. Do FIQR Severity Categories and Symptoms, Differentiate Between Continuous, Intermittent and Non-Opioid Users in the Treatment of Fibromyalgia? Pain Manag Nurs 2024; 25:181-188. [PMID: 37993311 PMCID: PMC11016416 DOI: 10.1016/j.pmn.2023.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 10/20/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Many fibromyalgia patients utilize opioids to treat symptoms. It is important to better understand nuances regarding this treatment option and any stigma associated with this treatment modality. AIM This study: (1) assessed the prevalence of opioid use among continuous, intermittent, and non-opioid users in fibromyalgia patients; (2) determined whether the Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire (FIQR) was useful in distinguishing opioid use and symptom burden; and (3) assessed whether fibromyalgia patients encountered stigma and/or invalidation. DESIGN A cross-sectional, observational study of 1,105 participants' responses to validated fibromyalgia and invalidation scales and demographic questions. METHODS The study employed online survey methodology. RESULTS A total of 45% of patients reported utilizing opioids (27% continuous, 18% intermittent, 55% non-users). FIQR disease categories (mild to most severe) strongly distinguished between opioid and non-opioid users with 59% of users falling in the most severe category and 68% of non-users falling in mild disease category (p < .0001). Interestingly, intermittent users were similar to non-users on FIQR severity (65.9 versus 65.7; p <0.60, 0-100) while continuous users reported greater severity than the former (73.9, p < .0001). Continuous users particularly reported more problems with daily activities (p < .0001), being overwhelmed (p < .0001), and being unable to accomplish goals (p < .0001). Stigma related to being 'drug seeking' and being 'judged'. Invalidation was infrequent. CONCLUSIONS Opioid use is common in fibromyalgia and increases monotonically with FIQR severity. Multidisciplinary approaches which help patients perform daily activities, decrease feelings of overwhelm, accomplish goals, and reduce stigma may be beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea R Pfalzgraf
- From the National University of Natural Medicine, Helfgott Research Institute, Portland, OR.
| | - Ronald Friend
- Department of Psychology, College of Arts and Sciences, Stony Brook University, Stony Brook, NY (emeritus); Fibromyalgia Research Unit, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, OR
| | - Kimberly Dupree Jones
- Office of Academic Advancement, Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing, Emory University, Atlanta, GA; Oregon Health & Science University, Division of Neurology, Portland, OR
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2
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Häuser W, Fitzcharles MA. Adherence to Clinical Guidelines for Fibromyalgia: Help or Hindrance? Can J Pain 2023; 7:2255070. [PMID: 38027233 PMCID: PMC10653630 DOI: 10.1080/24740527.2023.2255070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Winfried Häuser
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Technische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Mary-Ann Fitzcharles
- Department of Rheumatology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Alan Edwards Pain Management Unit, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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3
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De Clifford-Faugère G, Nguena Nguefack HL, Godbout-Parent M, Diallo MA, Guénette L, Pagé MG, Choinière M, Beaudoin S, Boulanger A, Pinard AM, Lussier D, De Grandpré P, Deslauriers S, Lacasse A. Pain Medications Used by Persons Living With Fibromyalgia: A Comparison Between the Profile of a Quebec Sample and Clinical Practice Guidelines. Can J Pain 2023; 7:2252037. [PMID: 38025837 PMCID: PMC10653640 DOI: 10.1080/24740527.2023.2252037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023]
Abstract
Background Pharmacological management of fibromyalgia is complex. Chronic pain management is characterized by off-label prescribing and use, multimorbidity, and polypharmacy. Aims This study aimed to describe pain medications use and perceived risk among people living with fibromyalgia and compare this use to evidence-based recommendations. Methods Directive telephone interviews were conducted with 63 individuals self-reporting a diagnosis of fibromyalgia (Quebec, Canada). The questionnaire addressed specific questions about their pain and pharmacological treatments currently used for pain management (prescribed and over-the-counter). Collected data were compared to the Canadian Fibromyalgia Clinical Practice Guidelines and to evidence reports published by recognized organizations. Results Despite a lack of robust scientific evidence to support opioids use to manage pain in fibromyalgia, 33% of our sample reported using them. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were used by 54.0% of participants, although this medication is not recommended due to lack of efficacy. Tramadol, which is recommended, was used by 23.8% of participants. Among the medications strongly recommended, anticonvulsants were used by 36.5%, serotonin norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor antidepressants by 55.6%, and tricyclic antidepressants by 22.2%. Cannabinoids (17.5%) and medical cannabis (34.9%) use were also reported. For all of these medication subclasses, no differences were found between participants not reporting (n = 35) or reporting (n = 28) more than one pain diagnosis (P < 0.05). Medication subclasses considered most at risk of adverse effects by participants were the least used. Conclusions Results reveal discordance between evidence-based recommendations and medications use, which highlights the complexity of pharmacological treatment of fibromyalgia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gwenaelle De Clifford-Faugère
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), RouynNoranda, Québec, Canada
| | - Hermine Lore Nguena Nguefack
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), RouynNoranda, Québec, Canada
| | - Marimée Godbout-Parent
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), RouynNoranda, Québec, Canada
| | - Mamadou Aliou Diallo
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), RouynNoranda, Québec, Canada
| | - Line Guénette
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier universitaire de Québec–Université Laval, Quebec City, Québec, Canada
- Faculté de pharmacie, Université Laval, Quebec City, Québec, Canada
| | - M. Gabrielle Pagé
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Département d’anesthésiologie et de médecine de la douleur, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Manon Choinière
- Centre de recherche du Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Département d’anesthésiologie et de médecine de la douleur, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Sylvie Beaudoin
- Département d’anesthésiologie et de médecine de la douleur, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Patiente Partenaire, Laboratoire de recherche en épidémiologie de la douleur chronique, UQAT, RouynNoranda, Québec, Canada
- Centre d’expertise en gestion de la douleur chronique, Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Aline Boulanger
- Département d’anesthésiologie et de médecine de la douleur, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Centre d’expertise en gestion de la douleur chronique, Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Anne Marie Pinard
- Centre d’expertise en gestion de la douleur chronique, Centre hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Département d’anesthésiologie et de soins intensifs, Université Laval, Quebec City, Québec, Canada
- Centre intégré de recherche en réadaptation et intégration sociale, Centre intégré de santé et de services sociaux (CIUSSS) de la Capitale-Nationale, Quebec City, Québec, Canada
| | - David Lussier
- Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
- Département de médecine, Faculté de médecine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Philippe De Grandpré
- Familiprix Chantale Gaboury & Marie-Ève Gélinas, Québec, Canada
- Groupe de médecine familiale Clinique Familiale des prairies, Québec, Canada
| | - Simon Deslauriers
- VITAM–Centre de recherche en santé durable, CIUSSS de la CapitaleNationale, Quebec City, Québec, Canada
| | - Anaïs Lacasse
- Département des sciences de la santé, Université du Québec en Abitibi-Témiscamingue (UQAT), RouynNoranda, Québec, Canada
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4
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Dailey DL, Vance CGT, Chimenti R, Rakel BA, Zimmerman MB, Williams JM, Sluka KA, Crofford LJ. The Influence of Opioids on Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation Effects in Women With Fibromyalgia. THE JOURNAL OF PAIN 2022; 23:1268-1281. [PMID: 35292378 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpain.2022.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Revised: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) uses endogenous opioids to produce analgesia, and effectiveness can be reduced in opioid-tolerant individuals'. We examined TENS effectiveness (primary aim), and differences in fibromyalgia symptoms (secondary aim), in women with fibromyalgia regularly taking opioid (RTO) medications compared with women not- regularly taking opioids (not-RTO). Women (RTO n = 79; not-RTO not-n = 222) with fibromyalgia with daily pain levels ≥4 were enrolled and categorized into RTO (taking opioids at least 5 of 7 days in last 30 days) or not-RTO groups. Participants were categorized into tramadol n = 52 (65.8%) and other opioids n = 27 (34.2%) for the RTO group. Participants were phenotyped across multiple domains including demographics, fibromyalgia characteristics pain, fatigue, sleep, psychosocial factors, and activity. Participants were randomized to active TENS (n = 101), placebo TENS (n = 99), or no TENS (n = 99) for 1-month with randomization stratified by opioid use. Active TENS was equally effective in movement-evoked pain in those in the RTO and not-RTO groups. Women with fibromyalgia in the RTO group were older (P = .002), lower-income (P = .035), more likely to smoke (P = .014), and more likely to report depression (P = .013), hypertension (P = .005) or osteoarthritis (P = .027). The RTO group demonstrated greater bodily pain on SF-36 (P = .005), lower quality of life on the physical health component of the SF-36 (P = .040), and greater fatigue (MAF-ADL P = .047; fatigue with sit to stand test (P = .047) These differences were small of and unclear clinical significance. In summary, regular use of opioid analgesics does not interfere with the effectiveness of TENS for movement-evoked pain. Clinical Trial Registration Number: NCT01888640. PERSPECTIVE: Individuals treated with mixed frequency TENS at a strong but comfortable intensity that was taking prescription opioid analgesics showed a significant reduction in movement-evoked pain and fatigue. These data support the use of TENS, using appropriate parameters of stimulation, as an intervention for individuals with fibromyalgia taking opioid analgesics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dana L Dailey
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa; Department of Physical Therapy St. Ambrose University, Davenport, Iowa.
| | - Carol G T Vance
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Ruth Chimenti
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Barbara A Rakel
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa; College of Nursing, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | | | - Jon M Williams
- Department of Medicine/Rheumatology & Immunology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Kathleen A Sluka
- Department of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Science, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa; College of Nursing, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
| | - Leslie J Crofford
- Department of Medicine/Rheumatology & Immunology, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, Tennessee
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5
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Häuser W, Morlion B, Vowles KE, Bannister K, Buchser E, Casale R, Chenot JF, Chumbley G, Drewes AM, Dom G, Jutila L, O'Brien T, Pogatzki-Zahn E, Rakusa M, Suarez-Serrano C, Tölle T, Krčevski Škvarč N. European* clinical practice recommendations on opioids for chronic noncancer pain - Part 1: Role of opioids in the management of chronic noncancer pain. Eur J Pain 2021; 25:949-968. [PMID: 33655607 PMCID: PMC8248186 DOI: 10.1002/ejp.1736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid use for chronic non-cancer pain (CNCP) is complex. In the absence of pan-European guidance on this issue, a position paper was commissioned by the European Pain Federation (EFIC). METHODS The clinical practice recommendations were developed by eight scientific societies and one patient self-help organization under the coordination of EFIC. A systematic literature search in MEDLINE (up until January 2020) was performed. Two categories of guidance are given: Evidence-based recommendations (supported by evidence from systematic reviews of randomized controlled trials or of observational studies) and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) statements (supported either by indirect evidence or by case-series, case-control studies and clinical experience). The GRADE system was applied to move from evidence to recommendations. The recommendations and GCP statements were developed by a multiprofessional task force (including nursing, service users, physicians, physiotherapy and psychology) and formal multistep procedures to reach a set of consensus recommendations. The clinical practice recommendations were reviewed by five external reviewers from North America and Europe and were also posted for public comment. RESULTS The key clinical practice recommendations suggest: (a) first optimizing established non-pharmacological treatments and non-opioid analgesics and (b) considering opioid treatment if established non-pharmacological treatments or non-opioid analgesics are not effective and/or not tolerated and/or contraindicated. Evidence- and clinical consensus-based potential indications and contraindications for opioid treatment are presented. Eighteen GCP recommendations give guidance regarding clinical evaluation, as well as opioid treatment assessment, monitoring, continuation and discontinuation. CONCLUSIONS Opioids remain a treatment option for some selected patients with CNCP under careful surveillance. SIGNIFICANCE In chronic pain, opioids are neither a universal cure nor a universally dangerous weapon. They should only be used for some selected chronic noncancer pain syndromes if established non-pharmacological and pharmacological treatment options have failed in supervised pain patients as part of a comprehensive, multi-modal, multi-disciplinary approach to treatment. In this context alone, opioid therapy can be a useful tool in achieving and maintaining an optimal level of pain control in some patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Winfried Häuser
- Department Internal Medicine 1, Klinikum Saarbrücken, Saarbrücken, Germany.,Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Technische Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Bart Morlion
- Center for Algology & Pain Management, University Hospitals Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Kevin E Vowles
- School of Psychology, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Kirsty Bannister
- Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Eric Buchser
- Pain Management and Neuromodulation Centre EHC Hospital, Morges, Switzerland
| | - Roberto Casale
- Neurorehabilitation Unit, Department of Rehabilitation, HABILITA, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Jean-François Chenot
- Department of General Practice, Institute for Community Medicine, University Medicine Greifswald, Germany
| | - Gillian Chumbley
- Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Charing Cross Hospital, London, UK
| | - Asbjørn Mohr Drewes
- Mech-Sense, Department of Gastroenterology & Hepatology, Aalborg University Hospital, Denmark
| | - Geert Dom
- Collaborative Antwerp Psychiatric Research Institute (CAPRI), Antwerp University, Antwerpen, Belgium
| | | | - Tony O'Brien
- College of Medicine & Health, University College Cork, Cork, Republic of Ireland
| | - Esther Pogatzki-Zahn
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, University Hospital Münster UKM, Munster, Germany
| | - Martin Rakusa
- Department of Neurology, University Medical Centre, Maribor, Slovenia
| | | | - Thomas Tölle
- Department of Neurology, Techhnische Universität München, München, Germany
| | - Nevenka Krčevski Škvarč
- Department of Anesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Treatment, Faculty of Medicine of University Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
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6
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Mueller C, Ness TJ, Younger JW. Low-Dose Dextromethorphan for the Treatment of Fibromyalgia Pain: Results from a Longitudinal, Single-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Pilot Trial. J Pain Res 2021; 14:189-200. [PMID: 33542651 PMCID: PMC7851375 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s285609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Fibromyalgia (FM) is a debilitating chronic pain condition with few treatment options. Central sensitization and neuroinflammation have been forwarded as models of FM pathophysiology, both of which indicate dextromethorphan (DXM) as a potential treatment. DXM is an NMDA-receptor antagonist and microglial modulator with anti-neuroinflammatory properties at low doses. It is available for clinical use but has not been tested as a treatment for FM at low dosages. This study evaluated the effectiveness of DXM in treating FM-associated symptoms. Methods In a single-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 14 women meeting the 2010 American College of Rheumatology criteria for FM received a placebo for five weeks, followed by 20 mg DXM for ten weeks, while providing daily symptom reports on a 0–100 scale. Pain and physical activity were the primary and secondary outcomes, respectively. Daily symptom ratings during the last four weeks of placebo were contrasted with ratings during the last four weeks of the active treatment using generalized estimating equations (GEE). Results DXM was well tolerated, and treatment adherence was high. Baseline pain was reduced by at least 20% in six participants. Self-reported daily pain and physical activity in the entire cohort were not significantly different between the placebo and DXM conditions, and the primary hypotheses were not supported. Exploratory analyses using the entire placebo and DXM data showed that pain was significantly lower in the DXM condition than in the placebo condition (b=−9.933, p=0.013). Discussion A strong clinical effect of DXM was not observed at the 20mg/day dosage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Mueller
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Timothy J Ness
- Department of Anesthesiology and Perioperative Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
| | - Jarred W Younger
- Department of Psychology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA
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7
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Maffei ME. Fibromyalgia: Recent Advances in Diagnosis, Classification, Pharmacotherapy and Alternative Remedies. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:E7877. [PMID: 33114203 PMCID: PMC7660651 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21217877] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2020] [Revised: 10/22/2020] [Accepted: 10/22/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Fibromyalgia (FM) is a syndrome that does not present a well-defined underlying organic disease. FM is a condition which has been associated with diseases such as infections, diabetes, psychiatric or neurological disorders, rheumatic pathologies, and is a disorder that rather than diagnosis of exclusion requires positive diagnosis. A multidimensional approach is required for the management of FM, including pain management, pharmacological therapies, behavioral therapy, patient education, and exercise. The purpose of this review is to summarize the recent advances in classification criteria and diagnostic criteria for FM as well as to explore pharmacotherapy and the use of alternative therapies including the use of plant bioactive molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo E Maffei
- Department of Life Sciences and Systems Biology, University of Turin, 10135 Turin, Italy
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8
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Abstract
Chronic pain is a common complaint among patients, and rheumatic diseases are a common cause for chronic pain. Current pharmacological interventions for chronic pain are not always useful or safe enough for long-term use. Cannabis and cannabinoids are currently being studied due to their potential as analgesics. In this review we will discuss current literature regarding cannabinoids and cannabis as treatment for rheumatic diseases. Fibromyalgia is a prevalent rheumatic disease that causes diffuse pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Treatment of this syndrome is symptomatic, and it has been suggested that cannabis and cannabinoids could potentially alleviate some of the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia. In this review we cite some of the evidence that supports this claim. However, data on long-term efficacy and safety of cannabinoid and cannabis use are still lacking. Cannabinoids and cannabis are commonly investigated as analgesic agents, but in recent years more evidence has accumulated on their potential immune-modulatory effect, supported by results in animal models of certain rheumatic diseases. While results that demonstrate the same effect in humans are still lacking, cannabinoids and cannabis remain potential drugs to alleviate the pain associated with rheumatic diseases, as they were shown to be safe and to cause limited adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tal Gonen
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Department of Medicine ‘B’ & The Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat-Gan, Israel
| | - Howard Amital
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel
- Department of Medicine ‘B’ & The Zabludowicz Center for Autoimmune Diseases, Sheba Medical Center, Tel-Hashomer, Ramat-Gan, Israel
- To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail:
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9
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Sagy I, Bar-Lev Schleider L, Abu-Shakra M, Novack V. Safety and Efficacy of Medical Cannabis in Fibromyalgia. J Clin Med 2019; 8:jcm8060807. [PMID: 31195754 PMCID: PMC6616435 DOI: 10.3390/jcm8060807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 06/02/2019] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Chronic pain may be treated by medical cannabis. Yet, there is scarce evidence to support the role of medical cannabis in the treatment of fibromyalgia. The aim of the study was to investigate the characteristics, safety, and effectiveness of medical cannabis therapy for fibromyalgia. Methods: A prospective observational study with six months follow-up period based on fibromyalgia patients who were willing to answer questionnaire in a specialized medical cannabis clinic between 2015 and 2017. Results: Among the 367 fibromyalgia patients, the mean age was 52.9 ± 15.1, of whom 301 (82.0%) were women. Twenty eight patients (7.6%) stopped the treatment prior to the six months follow-up. The six months response rate was 70.8%. Pain intensity (scale 0–10) reduced from a median of 9.0 at baseline to 5.0 (p < 0.001), and 194 patients (81.1%) achieved treatment response. In a multivariate analysis, age above 60 years (odds ratio [OR] 0.34, 95% C.I 0.16–0.72), concerns about cannabis treatment (OR 0.36, 95% C.I 0.16–0.80), spasticity (OR 2.26, 95% C.I 1.08–4.72), and previous use of cannabis (OR 2.46 95% C.I 1.06–5.74) were associated with treatment outcome. The most common adverse effects were mild and included dizziness (7.9%), dry mouth (6.7%), and gastrointestinal symptoms (5.4%). Conclusion: Medical cannabis appears to be a safe and effective alternative for the treatment of fibromyalgia symptoms. Standardization of treatment compounds and regimens are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iftach Sagy
- Department of Rheumatology, Rabin Medical Center, Petach Tikva 49100, Israel.
- Cannabis Clinical Research Institute, Soroka University Medical Center and Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er-Sheva 84101, Israel.
| | - Lihi Bar-Lev Schleider
- Cannabis Clinical Research Institute, Soroka University Medical Center and Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er-Sheva 84101, Israel.
- Research Department, Tikun Olam LTD, Tel-Aviv 6296602, Israel.
| | - Mahmoud Abu-Shakra
- Department of Rheumatology, Soroka University Medical Center and Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er-Sheva 84101, Israel.
| | - Victor Novack
- Cannabis Clinical Research Institute, Soroka University Medical Center and Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Be'er-Sheva 84101, Israel.
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10
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Sommer C, Alten R, Bär KJ, Bernateck M, Brückle W, Friedel E, Henningsen P, Petzke F, Tölle T, Üçeyler N, Winkelmann A, Häuser W. [Drug therapy of fibromyalgia syndrome : Updated guidelines 2017 and overview of systematic review articles]. Schmerz 2018; 31:274-284. [PMID: 28493231 DOI: 10.1007/s00482-017-0207-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The regular update of the guidelines on fibromyalgia syndrome, AWMF number 145/004, was scheduled for April 2017. METHODS The guidelines were developed by 13 scientific societies and 2 patient self-help organizations coordinated by the German Pain Society. Working groups (n =8) with a total of 42 members were formed balanced with respect to gender, medical expertise, position in the medical or scientific hierarchy and potential conflicts of interest. A literature search for systematic reviews of randomized controlled drug trials from December 2010 to May 2016 was performed in the Cochrane library, MEDLINE, PsycINFO and Scopus databases. Levels of evidence were assigned according to the classification system of the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine version 2009. The strength of recommendations was achieved by multiple step formalized procedures to reach a consensus. Efficacy, risks, patient preferences and applicability of available therapies were weighed up against each other. The guidelines were reviewed and approved by the board of directors of the societies engaged in the development of the guidelines. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION Amitriptyline and duloxetine are recommended in the case of comorbid depressive disorders or generalized anxiety disorder and pregabalin in the case of generalized anxiety disorder. Off-label use of duloxetine and pregabalin can be considered if there are no comorbid mental disorders or no generalized anxiety disorder. Strong opioids are not recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Sommer
- Neurologische Klinik, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, 97080, Würzburg, Deutschland.
| | - R Alten
- Schlosspark-Klinik, Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Deutschland
| | - K-J Bär
- Klinik für Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie, Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena, Jena, Deutschland
| | - M Bernateck
- Zentrum für Schmerzmedizin, Hannover, Deutschland
| | - W Brückle
- Rheumatologikum, Hannover, Deutschland
| | - E Friedel
- Medis Research GmbH, Bad Kissingen, Deutschland
| | - P Henningsen
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Technische Universität München, München, Deutschland
| | - F Petzke
- Schmerzmedizin, Klinik für Anästhesiologie, Universitätsmedizin Göttingen, Göttingen, Deutschland
| | - T Tölle
- Klinik für Neurologie, Technische Universität München, München, Deutschland
| | - N Üçeyler
- Neurologische Klinik, Universitätsklinikum Würzburg, Josef-Schneider-Str. 11, 97080, Würzburg, Deutschland
| | - A Winkelmann
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Orthopädie, Physikalische Medizin und Rehabilitation, Klinikum der Universität München, München, Deutschland
| | - W Häuser
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Psychosomatische Medizin und Psychotherapie, Technische Universität München, München, Deutschland.,Innere Medizin I, Klinikum Saarbrücken gGmbH, Saarbrücken, Deutschland
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11
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Arout CA, Sofuoglu M, Bastian LA, Rosenheck RA. Gender Differences in the Prevalence of Fibromyalgia and in Concomitant Medical and Psychiatric Disorders: A National Veterans Health Administration Study. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2018; 27:1035-1044. [PMID: 29608126 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2017.6622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fibromyalgia is a poorly understood, chronically disabling pain syndrome. While research has focused on its clinical presentation and treatment, less is known about fibromyalgia's clinical epidemiology in real-world healthcare systems. Gender differences have been difficult to study because relatively few males are diagnosed with fibromyalgia. METHODS Veterans Health Administration (VHA) patients diagnosed with fibromyalgia nationwide in FY 2012 were compared to Veterans with other pain diagnoses on sociodemographic characteristics, medical and psychiatric diagnoses, health service use, and opioid and psychotropic prescription fills. Additional analyses compared characteristics of men and women diagnosed with fibromyalgia. Risk ratios and Cohen's d were used for bivariate comparisons, followed by logistic regression analyses to identify independent factors associated with a diagnosis of fibromyalgia in the VHA. RESULTS Altogether, 77,087 of 2,216,621 Veterans with pain diagnoses (3.48%) were diagnosed with fibromyalgia. They were more likely to be female, younger than patients with other pain conditions, more likely to have multiple psychiatric comorbidities and other types of pain, and used more medical outpatient services. Women diagnosed with fibromyalgia were younger and more likely to have headaches, connective tissue diseases (CTD), and psychiatric comorbidities, while men had more comorbid medical conditions. CONCLUSIONS In this large, predominantly older male sample of Veterans with pain diagnoses, those with fibromyalgia were far more likely to be women. Gender comparisons showed women with fibromyalgia were more likely to be diagnosed with psychiatric disorders and CTD, while males were more likely to be diagnosed with medical conditions. Fibromyalgia shows a striking, gender-dependent picture of multimorbidity, which should be considered in treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline A Arout
- 1 Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine , VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,2 Division on Substance Use Disorders, Department of Psychiatry, New York State Psychiatric Institute, Columbia University Medical Center , New York, New York
| | - Mehmet Sofuoglu
- 1 Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine , VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,3 Veterans Health Administration Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC) , VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Lori A Bastian
- 4 Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine , VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,5 Pain Research, Informatics, Multimorbidities, and Education (PRIME) Center, VA Connecticut Healthcare System , West Haven, Connecticut
| | - Robert A Rosenheck
- 1 Department of Psychiatry, Yale University School of Medicine , VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut.,3 Veterans Health Administration Mental Illness Research, Education, and Clinical Center (MIRECC) , VA Connecticut Healthcare System, West Haven, Connecticut
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Stacey BR, Liss J, Behar R, Sadosky A, Parsons B, Masters ET, Hlavacek P. A systematic review of the effectiveness of policies restricting access to pregabalin. BMC Health Serv Res 2017; 17:600. [PMID: 28841868 PMCID: PMC6389065 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-017-2503-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2016] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Formularies often employ restriction policies to reduce pharmacy costs. Pregabalin, an alpha-2-delta ligand, is approved for treatment of fibromyalgia (FM); neuropathic pain (NeP) due to postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), diabetic peripheral neuropathy (pDPN), spinal cord injury; and as adjunct therapy for partial onset seizures. Pregabalin is endorsed as first-line therapy for these indications by several US and EU medical professional societies. However, restriction policies such as prior authorization (PA) and step therapy (ST) often favor less costly generic pain medications over pregabalin. METHODS A structured literature search (PubMed, past 11 years) was conducted to evaluate whether restriction policies against pregabalin support real-world economic and healthcare utilization benefits. RESULTS Search criteria identified three claims analyses and a modeling study that evaluated patients with NeP and/or FM with and without PA restrictions; three other studies included patients with FM and NeP in plans with ST requirements, and one evaluated a mail order requirement program. All studies evaluated outcomes during follow-up periods of 6 months or longer. Overall, PA, ST, and mail order restriction policies effectively reduced pregabalin usage, but the effects were inconsistent with reducing pharmacy costs and were non-significant for total disease-related medical costs. Two studies (one PA; one ST) reported significantly higher disease-related costs in restricted plans. The modeling study failed to demonstrate cost savings with PA. Opioid usage was higher in PA-restricted plans (two studies). The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and several professional NeP guidelines recommend opioid use only in cases when other non-opioid pain therapies have proven ineffective. New US Government taskforce guidelines now seek to reduce opioid exposure. Additionally, in both ST studies, gabapentin utilization (a common ST edit) was significantly increased. Both studies had substantial proportions of FM and pDPN patients and the only pain condition gabapentin is approved to treat in the United States is PHN. CONCLUSION PA and ST restriction policies significantly decrease utilization of pregabalin, but do not consistently demonstrate cost savings for US health plans. More research is needed to evaluate whether these policies may lead to increased opioid usage as found in some studies. TRIAL REGISTRATION N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brett R. Stacey
- Center for Pain Relief at UWMC-Roosevelt, University of Washington, 4225 Roosevelt Way NE, Seattle, WA 98105 USA
| | - Jonathan Liss
- Medical Research and Health Education Foundation, 7196 North Lake Drive, Suite A, Columbus, GA 31909 USA
| | - Regina Behar
- Pfizer Inc, 235 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 10017 USA
| | - Alesia Sadosky
- Pfizer Inc, 235 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 10017 USA
| | - Bruce Parsons
- Pfizer Inc, 235 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 10017 USA
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13
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Diagnostic confounders of chronic widespread pain: not always fibromyalgia. Pain Rep 2017; 2:e598. [PMID: 29392213 PMCID: PMC5741304 DOI: 10.1097/pr9.0000000000000598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2017] [Revised: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Although chronic widespread pain is the defining feature of fibromyalgia, a myriad of other conditions may present with similar pain complaint leading to misdiagnosis. Conditions that may mimic fibromyalgia may be categorized as musculoskeletal, neurological, endocrine/metabolic, psychiatric/psychological, and medication related. In this review, we examine these various conditions that should be considered in a differential diagnosis and provide direction that will help the clinician differentiate these conditions from fibromyalgia. Introduction: Chronic widespread pain (CWP) is the defining feature of fibromyalgia (FM), a worldwide prevalent condition. Chronic widespread pain is, however, not pathognomonic of FM, and other conditions may present similarly with CWP, requiring consideration of a differential diagnosis. Objectives: To conduct a literature search to identify medical conditions that may mimic FM and have highlighted features that may differentiate these various conditions from FM. Methods: A comprehensive literature search from 1990 through September 2016 was conducted to identify conditions characterized by CWP. Results: Conditions that may mimic FM may be categorized as musculoskeletal, neurological, endocrine/metabolic, psychiatric/psychological, and medication related. Characteristics pertaining to the most commonly identified confounding diagnoses within each category are discussed; clues to enable clinical differentiation from FM are presented; and steps towards a diagnostic algorithm for mimicking conditions are presented. Conclusion: Although the most likely reason for a complaint of CWP is FM, this pain complaint can be a harbinger of illness other than FM, prompting consideration of a differential diagnosis. This review should sensitize physicians to a broad spectrum of conditions that can mimic FM.
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14
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Häuser W, Bock F, Engeser P, Hege-Scheuing G, Hüppe M, Lindena G, Maier C, Norda H, Radbruch L, Sabatowski R, Schäfer M, Schiltenwolf M, Schuler M, Sorgatz H, Tölle T, Willweber-Strumpf A, Petzke F. [Recommendations of the updated LONTS guidelines. Long-term opioid therapy for chronic noncancer pain]. Schmerz 2016; 29:109-30. [PMID: 25616996 DOI: 10.1007/s00482-014-1463-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The regular update of the German S3 guidelines on long-term opioid therapy for chronic noncancer pain (CNCP), the"LONTS" (AWMF registration number 145/003), began in November 2013. METHODS The guidelines were developed by 26 scientific societies and two patient self-help organisations under the coordination of the Deutsche Schmerzgesellschaft (German Pain Society). A systematic literature search in the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Medline and Scopus databases (up until October 2013) was performed. Levels of evidence were assigned according to the classification system of the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine. The strength of the recommendations was established by multistep formal procedures, in order to reach a consensus according to German Association of the Medical Scientific Societies ("Arbeitsgemeinschaft der Wissenschaftlich Medizinischen Fachgesellschaften", AWMF) regulations. The guidelines were reviewed by the Drug Commission of the German Medical Association, the Austrian Pain Society and the Swiss Association for the Study of Pain. RESULTS Opioids are one drug-based treatment option for short- (4-12 weeks), intermediate- (13-25 weeks) and long-term (≥ 26 weeks) therapy of chronic osteoarthritis, diabetic polyneuropathy, postherpetic neuralgia and low back pain. Contraindications are primary headaches, as well as functional somatic syndromes and mental disorders with the (cardinal) symptom pain. For all other clinical presentations, a short- and long-term therapy with opioid-containing analgesics should be evaluated on an individual basis. Long-term therapy with opioid-containing analgesics is associated with relevant risks (sexual disorders, increased mortality). CONCLUSION Responsible application of opioid-containing analgesics requires consideration of possible indications and contraindications, as well as regular assessment of efficacy and adverse effects. Neither an uncritical increase in opioid application, nor the global rejection of opioid-containing analgesics is justified in patients with CNCP.
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Affiliation(s)
- W Häuser
- Medizinisches Versorgungszentrum (Schmerztherapie, Palliativmedizin, Psychiatrie, Psychotherapie) Saarbrücken - St. Johann, Saarbrücken, Deutschland,
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15
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Kim S, Slaven JE, Ang DC. Sustained Benefits of Exercise-based Motivational Interviewing, but Only among Nonusers of Opioids in Patients with Fibromyalgia. J Rheumatol 2016; 44:505-511. [PMID: 27909084 DOI: 10.3899/jrheum.161003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Given the known side effects of opioids and their potential effects on cognition, we sought to evaluate the benefits of motivational interviewing (MI) to promote physical activity on 2 subsets of participants with fibromyalgia (FM): nonusers and users of opioids. METHODS This was a secondary data analysis of a 36-week randomized controlled trial to assess the efficacy of MI to promote physical activity among participants with FM. Participants were randomized to 1 of 2 treatment arms: 6 phone-based MI sessions (n = 107) or 6 sessions of FM self-management instructions [attention control (AC), n = 109]. The primary outcomes were changes in physical function (Medical Outcomes Study Short Form-36), pain severity (Brief Pain Inventory), global FM symptom severity (Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire), and the amount of light to moderate physical activity (LMPA) from baseline to each followup visit. At study entry, subjects were categorized as opioid nonusers versus users. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to assess treatment effects adjusting for potential confounders. RESULTS Of the 216 participants, 145 (67%) were nonusers and 71 (33%) were opioid users. Among nonusers, MI was associated with improved physical function, reduced pain severity, and global FM severity, and increased LMPA at 6-month followup. Among opioid users, there were no significant differences in any outcome measures between the MI and AC groups. CONCLUSION Exercise-based MI was associated with sustained clinical benefits 6 months after completion of therapy, but only for those who were not taking opioids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunghye Kim
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, and Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Division of Biostatistics, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,S. Kim, MD, MMSc, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine; J.E. Slaven, MS, Biostatistician, Division of Biostatistics, Indiana University; D.C. Ang, MD, MS, Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Wake Forest School of Medicine
| | - James E Slaven
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, and Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Division of Biostatistics, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA.,S. Kim, MD, MMSc, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine; J.E. Slaven, MS, Biostatistician, Division of Biostatistics, Indiana University; D.C. Ang, MD, MS, Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Wake Forest School of Medicine
| | - Dennis C Ang
- From the Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, and Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Division of Biostatistics, Indiana University, Indianapolis, Indiana, USA. .,S. Kim, MD, MMSc, Assistant Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of General Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine; J.E. Slaven, MS, Biostatistician, Division of Biostatistics, Indiana University; D.C. Ang, MD, MS, Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Wake Forest School of Medicine.
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16
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Margolis JM, Masters ET, Cappelleri JC, Smith DM, Faulkner S. Evaluating increased resource use in fibromyalgia using electronic health records. CLINICOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2016; 8:675-683. [PMID: 27895505 PMCID: PMC5117947 DOI: 10.2147/ceor.s112252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The management of fibromyalgia (FM), a chronic musculoskeletal disease, remains challenging, and patients with FM are often characterized by high health care resource utilization. This study sought to explore potential drivers of all-cause health care resource utilization and other factors associated with high resource use, using a large electronic health records (EHR) database to explore data from patients diagnosed with FM. Methods This was a retrospective analysis of de-identified EHR data from the Humedica database. Adults (≥18 years) with FM were identified based on ≥2 International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision codes for FM (729.1) ≥30 days apart between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2012 and were required to have evidence of ≥12 months continuous care pre- and post-index; first FM diagnosis was the index event; 12-month pre- and post-index reporting periods. Multivariable analysis evaluated relationships between variables and resource utilization. Results Patients were predominantly female (81.4%), Caucasian (87.7%), with a mean (standard deviation) age of 54.4 (14.8) years. The highest health care resource utilization was observed for the categories of “medication orders” and “physician office visits,” with 12-month post-index means of 21.2 (21.5) drug orders/patient and 15.1 (18.1) office visits/patient; the latter accounted for 73.3% of all health care visits. Opioids were the most common prescription medication, 44.3% of all patients. The chance of high resource use was significantly increased (P<0.001) 26% among African-Americans vs Caucasians and for patients with specific comorbid conditions ranging from 6% (musculoskeletal pain or depression/bipolar disorder) to 21% (congestive heart failure). Factors significantly associated with increased medications ordered included being female (P<0.001) and specific comorbid conditions (P<0.05). Conclusion Physician office visits and pharmacotherapy orders were key drivers of all-cause health care utilization, with demographic factors, opioid use, and specific comorbidities associated with resource intensity. Health systems and providers may find their EHRs to be a useful tool for identifying and managing resource-intensive FM patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay M Margolis
- Truven Health Analytics, Life Sciences, Outcomes Research, Bethesda, MD
| | | | | | - David M Smith
- Truven Health Analytics, Life Sciences, Outcomes Research, Bethesda, MD
| | - Steven Faulkner
- Pfizer Inc, North American Medical Affairs, Medical Outcomes Specialists, St Louis, MO, USA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND This review replaces part of an earlier review that evaluated oxycodone for both neuropathic pain and fibromyalgia, which has now been split into separate reviews for the two conditions. This review will consider pain in fibromyalgia only.Opioid drugs are commonly used to treat fibromyalgia, but they may not be beneficial for people with this condition. Most reviews have examined all opioids together. This review sought evidence specifically for oxycodone, at any dose, and by any route of administration. OBJECTIVES To assess the analgesic efficacy and adverse events of oxycodone for treating pain in fibromyalgia in adults. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE, and EMBASE for randomised controlled trials from inception to 25 July 2016. We also searched the reference lists of retrieved studies and reviews, and searched online clinical trial registries. SELECTION CRITERIA We planned to include randomised, double-blind trials of eight weeks' duration or longer, comparing oxycodone (alone or in fixed-dose combination with naloxone) with placebo or another active treatment. We did not include observational studies. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS The plan was for two independent review authors to extract data and assess trial quality and potential bias. Where pooled analysis was possible, we planned to use dichotomous data to calculate risk ratio and numbers needed to treat for one additional event, using standard methods. MAIN RESULTS No study satisfied the inclusion criteria. Effects of interventions were not assessed as there were no included studies. We have only very low quality evidence and are very uncertain about estimates of benefit and harm. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS There is no randomised trial evidence to support or refute the suggestion that oxycodone, alone or in combination with naloxone, reduces pain in fibromyalgia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Gaskell
- University of OxfordPain Research and Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences (Nuffield Division of Anaesthetics)OxfordOxfordshireUK
| | - R Andrew Moore
- University of OxfordPain Research and Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences (Nuffield Division of Anaesthetics)OxfordOxfordshireUK
| | - Sheena Derry
- University of OxfordPain Research and Nuffield Department of Clinical Neurosciences (Nuffield Division of Anaesthetics)OxfordOxfordshireUK
| | - Cathy Stannard
- Frenchay HospitalPain Clinic, Macmillan CentreBristolUKBS16 1LE
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Adams EH, McElroy HJ, Udall M, Masters ET, Mann RM, Schaefer CP, Cappelleri JC, Clair AG, Hopps M, Daniel SR, Mease P, Silverman SL, Staud R. Progression of fibromyalgia: results from a 2-year observational fibromyalgia and chronic pain study in the US. J Pain Res 2016; 9:325-36. [PMID: 27330325 PMCID: PMC4898260 DOI: 10.2147/jpr.s100043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Background A previous fibromyalgia (FM) research reports that 20%–47% of diagnosed patients may not meet the study definition of FM 1–2 years after diagnosis. The aim of this study was to gain a better understanding of the progression of FM in a geographically diverse cohort over a 2-year time period. Methods This cohort study followed 226 subjects recruited online to assess FM and chronic widespread pain (CWP) diagnosis stability over time. At enrollment (baseline), subjects provided informed consent, completed an online questionnaire consisting of the London Fibromyalgia Epidemiology Study Screening Questionnaire to screen for CWP (bilateral pain above/below waist lasting ≥1 week in the past 3 months), visited a site for physician evaluation for FM, and completed a questionnaire with validated patient-reported outcome instruments. Subjects were classified into mutually exclusive groups: FM+CWP+ (screened positive for CWP and received physician diagnosis of FM), FM−CWP+ (screened positive for CWP but did not receive physician diagnosis of FM), and FM−CWP− (screened negative for CWP). Approximately 2 years later (follow-up), subjects were reassessed at the same study site and completed a questionnaire with the same patient-reported outcomes. Results Seventy-six FM+CWP+ subjects completed assessments at both time points; 56 (73.7%) met the FM study definition at follow-up. Twenty subjects no longer met the FM study definition (eleven became FM−CWP− and nine became FM−CWP+). Ten subjects (two from FM−CWP− and eight from FM−CWP+) transitioned into the FM+CWP+ group at follow-up; they reported more tender points and pain interference with sleep and worse physical function at baseline compared with subjects who did not transition to FM+CWP+. Most (76.7%) of the subjects who transitioned into/out of FM+CWP+ experienced changes in CWP, number of positive tender points, or both. Conclusion The results suggest that some FM+CWP+ patients experience fluctuation in symptoms over time, which may reflect the waxing and waning nature of FM and affect diagnosis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar H Adams
- Covance Market Access Services Inc, Gaithersburg, MD, USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Philip Mease
- Division of Rheumatology Research, Swedish Medical Center, Seattle, WA, USA; Department of Rheumatology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Stuart L Silverman
- Department of Medicine, Division of Rheumatology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, CA, USA; Department of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Roland Staud
- Department of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Okifuji A, Gao J, Bokat C, Hare BD. Management of fibromyalgia syndrome in 2016. Pain Manag 2016; 6:383-400. [PMID: 27306300 PMCID: PMC5066139 DOI: 10.2217/pmt-2016-0006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2016] [Accepted: 06/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Fibromyalgia syndrome is a chronic pain disorder and defies definitively efficacious therapy. In this review, we summarize the results from the early treatment research as well as recent research evaluating the pharmacological, interventional and nonpharmacological therapies. We further discuss future directions of fibromyalgia syndrome management; we specifically focus on the issues that are associated with currently available treatments, such as the need for personalized approach, new technologically oriented and interventional treatments, the importance of understanding and harnessing placebo effects and enhancement of patient engagement in therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akiko Okifuji
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain Management & Research Center, University of Utah, 615 Arapeen Drive, Suite 200, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Jeff Gao
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain Management & Research Center, University of Utah, 615 Arapeen Drive, Suite 200, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Christina Bokat
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain Management & Research Center, University of Utah, 615 Arapeen Drive, Suite 200, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
| | - Bradford D Hare
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Pain Management & Research Center, University of Utah, 615 Arapeen Drive, Suite 200, Salt Lake City, UT 84108, USA
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Wilner AN, Sharma BK, Thompson AR, Krueger A. Analgesic opioid use in a health-insured epilepsy population during 2012. Epilepsy Behav 2016; 57:126-132. [PMID: 26949154 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2016.01.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2015] [Revised: 01/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Analgesic opioid use has increased dramatically in the general population. Although opioid analgesics are not indicated for the treatment of epilepsy, frequent opioid use has been reported in the epilepsy population. It is not clear whether comorbid disorders and/or epilepsy-associated injuries due to seizures foster opioid use. Our primary objective was to compare the prevalence of analgesic opioid use in an insured patient population with epilepsy to a matched control population without epilepsy. After observing increased frequency of opioid use in people with epilepsy compared with matched controls, we assessed the contribution of age, gender, pain diagnosis, and psychiatric illness as possible drivers regarding the use of opioids. METHODS Health insurance claims and membership data from nine United States (U.S.) health plans for the year 2012 were analyzed. Individuals with epilepsy (n=10,271) were match-paired at a 1:2 ratio to individuals without epilepsy (n=20,542) within each health plan using propensity scores derived from age group, gender, and insurance type. Matched comparison groups had 53% females and 47% males with an average age of 34 years for the group with epilepsy and 33 years for controls. Each matched comparison group included 66% of individuals with commercial insurance, 30% with Medicaid insurance, and 4% with Medicare coverage. Based on prescriptions filled at least once during 2012, prevalence of analgesic opioid use was determined. The percentages of individuals with diagnosis for specific pain conditions and those with psychiatric diagnoses were also determined for the two comparison groups. RESULTS Analgesic opioids were used by 26% of individuals in the group with epilepsy vs. 18% of matched controls (p<0.001). Compared with matched controls, the group with epilepsy had a significantly higher percentage of individuals with all 16 pain conditions examined: joint pain or stiffness (16% vs. 11%), abdominal pain (14% vs. 9%), headache (14% vs. 5%), pain in limb (12% vs. 7%), chest pain (11% vs. 6%), sprain of different parts (9% vs. 7%), sinusitis (9% vs. 7%), migraine (8% vs. 2%), lumbago (8% vs. 6%), backache (6% vs. 4%), cervicalgia (6% vs. 3%), fracture (5% vs. 3%), fibromyalgia (4% vs. 3%), chronic pain (3% vs. 1%), sciatica (1.4% vs. 1%), and jaw pain (0.4% vs. 0.1%) (all p<0.001). The prevalence of pain diagnosis was 51% in the group with epilepsy and 39% in the matched control group (p<0.0001). The prevalence of 'psychiatric diagnoses' was 27% in the group with epilepsy and 12% in the matched control group (p<0.0001). CONCLUSION The prevalences of analgesic opioid use, psychiatric diagnoses, and 16 pain conditions were significantly higher in the patient population with epilepsy than in the control population without epilepsy. Our study also showed how opioid use rate varied by gender, age category, and depression. The reasons for the greater prevalence of opioid use in people with epilepsy are unclear. It seems that increased pain prevalence is an important driver for the higher frequency of opioid use in people with epilepsy. Psychiatric illness and other factors also appear to contribute. Further analysis including more detailed clinical information that cannot be obtained through claims data alone will be required to provide more insight into opioid use in people with epilepsy. If opioid use is higher in people with epilepsy as our results suggest, physicians managing patients with epilepsy need to pay special attention to safe opioid prescribing habits in order to prevent adverse outcomes such as abuse, addiction, diversion, misuse, and overdose.
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Affiliation(s)
- A N Wilner
- Angels Neurological Centers, Abington, MA, United States.
| | - B K Sharma
- Accordant Health Services, a CVS Health Company, 4900 Koger Blvd., Greensboro, NC, United States.
| | - A R Thompson
- Accordant Health Services, a CVS Health Company, 4900 Koger Blvd., Greensboro, NC, United States.
| | - A Krueger
- Accordant Health Services, a CVS Health Company, 4900 Koger Blvd., Greensboro, NC, United States.
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Abstract
The medicolegal challenges surrounding fibromyalgia (FM) arise from the subjectivity of symptoms, causal attribution and reported symptoms sufficiently severe to cause disablement. In the present article, the authors have endeavoured to provide clarification of some current issues by referencing the current literature, including the 2012 Canadian Fibromyalgia Guidelines. While FM is accepted as a valid condition, its diagnosis is vulnerable to misuse due to the subjectivity of symptoms. Without a defining cause, a physical or psychological event may be alleged to trigger FM, but adjudication of causation must be prudent. Although some individuals may experience severe symptoms, the prevalent societal concept of disablement due to FM must be tempered with the knowledge that working contributes to psychosocial wellbeing. Evidence provided in the present report may assist the courts in reaching decisions concerning FM.
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Häuser W, Walitt B, Fitzcharles MA, Sommer C. Review of pharmacological therapies in fibromyalgia syndrome. Arthritis Res Ther 2014; 16:201. [PMID: 24433463 PMCID: PMC3979124 DOI: 10.1186/ar4441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2013] [Accepted: 01/09/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
This review addresses the current status of drug therapy for the management of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) and is based on interdisciplinary FMS management guidelines, meta-analyses of drug trial data, and observational studies. In the absence of a single gold-standard medication, patients are treated with a variety of drugs from different categories, often with limited evidence. Drug therapy is not mandatory for the management of FMS. Pregabalin, duloxetine, milnacipran, and amitriptyline are the current first-line prescribed agents but have had a mostly modest effect. With only a minority of patients expected to experience substantial benefit, most will discontinue therapy because of either a lack of efficacy or tolerability problems. Many drug treatments have undergone limited study and have had negative results. It is unlikely that these failed pilot trials will undergo future study. However, medications, though imperfect, will continue to be a component of treatment strategy for these patients. Both the potential for medication therapy to relieve symptoms and the potential to cause harm should be carefully considered in their administration.
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