Health
Fibromyalgia drug gains approval
NEWS IN BRIEF — Posted July 16, 2007
The Food and Drug Administration approved Lyrica, or pregabalin, on June 21 as the first drug to treat fibromyalgia, a disorder characterized by pain, fatigue and sleep problems.
Lyrica was tested in two double-blind, controlled clinical trials involving about 1,800 patients and was found to reduce pain and improve daily functions for some, the FDA reported.
The most common side effects included mild to moderate dizziness and sleepiness. Blurred vision, weight gain, dry mouth and swelling of the hands and feet also were reported in the trials. Because the drug may impair a person's ability to drive safely, physicians and patients were advised to discuss this issue before using the medication. Lyrica already is approved for treating partial seizures, pain following shingles rash and diabetic neuropathy.
Note: This item originally appeared at http://www.ama-assn.org/amednews/2007/07/16/hlbf0716.htm.
