Serotonergic agents in the treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate literature that discusses the treatment of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) with agents that involve the neurotransmitter serotonin.


METHODS
Biomedical literature accessed through MEDLINE (1966-August 2001) and International Pharmaceutical Abstracts.


RESULTS
The cause and pathophysiology of FMS remain elusive, although abnormalities in the serotonin pathway have been implicated. Several serotonergic agents have been studied for use in FMS. Trials and case reports focusing on the use of newer agents: the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, venlafaxine and tramadol, were reviewed.


CONCLUSIONS
Current research suggests that the serotonergic agents may reduce at least some of the symptoms of FMS. However, medications that act on multiple neurotransmitters may prove to be more effective in symptom management. Additional long-term studies are required in order to validate these results.
Miller
Lisa J
LJ
Pharmacy Department, Memorial Hermann Southwest Hospital, Houston, TX 77074, USA. lisa_miller@mhhs.org
Kubes
Kristy L
KL
D000328:Adult; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D005260:Female; D005356:Fibromyalgia / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D016239:MEDLINE; D008297:Male; D012701:Serotonin / Q000378:metabolism; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D012701:Serotonin; D017367:Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors