I have fibromyalgia and some issues that mock auto-immune, but Dr says isnt auto-immune....anyways. I just finished up a round of prednisone. (not a long one, just 6 weeks). Dr is doing my treatment in steps. My next appt is tomorrow and I know we are going to discuss how to handle my FMS. I have responded poorly to prior approved meds (cymbalta, lyrica, flexiril, and mobic). Either the side effects were bad or the meds just didnt work (this is common in FMS). There is some debate as to what is actually causing my pain.

The newest approved FMS treatment drug is Savella. I have not tried it yet. I am so so so hesitant to try it. However, I cant jst continue without something. Going vegan has really helped the frequency and intensity of my pain, but it has not eliminated it.

I am just not sure what to do.  Has anyone had positive or negative experiances with Savella?? I am guessing this will be what she suggests tomorrow. There is nothing else approved (that I have heard of).

I;m so sick of playing patient!!! BLAH!!!!!!!!!!!

Hi Emily,
There are things you can do that may help your condition.
Would you consider superhero? If you could try it for two or three weeks your immune system might be able to normalize. There are foods or ingredients in many vegan foods that can upset the bodies ability to manage inflammation. The superhero plan is well balanced and commonly results in dramatic and rapid improvements in pain levels and energy.

Other suggestions include acupuncture, physical therapy, massage, and yoga. A consultation with a macrobiotic councillor would be a really good idea if you can find one in your area. 

Check out some of the other threads to find common cause with those who have improved with the superhero plan and please consider that option. For some people it really can help a whole lot really quickly.

Justin

My aunt has fibro and gets great relief from massage, this seems to be the only thing that has helped her (though she isn't vegan, so who know!)

Savella is the same type of drug as Cymbalta, an SNRI.  For this reason, I am nervous to take this if my doctor suggests it because of the side effects I had with the Cymbalta.  I have FM too and get accupuncture every other week and should be getting my massages monthly, but haven't been.  Eating better does help a lot, but I haven't found the will power to stay super hero for long even though we all know it would make a drastic difference.  I am waiting for the referral to go to the rheumatologist.  Maybe he will have other ideas too.  I don't know about you, but I hate the idea of being on something long term, but who can stand the pain? 

Curamin hasn't really helped much on the natural side of things either. 

Let me know if you try the Savella.  I would be interested knowing if it worked for you.

I am pretty hard core vegan, borderline Superhero. My diet has played a HUGE role in the frequency of symptoms. However, I have noticed that no matter what I do, I still have some issues. Usually after a time of intense activity.

My Dr did not put me on Savella when I went last. She did however, switch my NSAIDs. I was on Mobic and it was messing with my liver or kidneys. I stopped it after I realized my lower back pain would ONLY occure when I took Mobic. I am now on Celebrex. I only take it as needed. I had a FIERCE flare up a week ago. It was short lived, thankfully!!!  I really dont want to be on more meds and only take my Celebrex when I have a nasty flare.

I wish I could do accupuncture, massage and so forth. Unfortunatly, insurance doesnt cover it and I cannot even remotely pay for it. My husband should be getting a big raise later this year and hopefully it will provide us with the funding!

Oh, I do yoga frequently and yes that helps!!!