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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 17, 2026

A Randomized, Sham-Controlled Trial of Cranial Electrical Stimulation for Fibromyalgia Pain and Physical Function, Using Brain Imaging Biomarkers

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Milnacipran: in fibromyalgia.

Claudine M Chwieduk¹, Paul L McCormack

¹Adis, a Wolters Kluwer Business, Auckland, New Zealand. demail@adis.co.nz

|December 25, 2009

Summary

Milnacipran effectively manages fibromyalgia pain in adults. This selective serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor demonstrated sustained benefits and was generally well-tolerated in clinical trials.

Area of Science:

Pharmacology
Clinical Medicine
Pain Management

Background:

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by widespread pain and fatigue.
Effective management strategies for fibromyalgia are crucial for improving patient quality of life.

Purpose of the Study:

To evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of milnacipran in adult patients with fibromyalgia.
To assess the long-term effectiveness and sustained benefits of milnacipran therapy.

Main Methods:

Four well-designed trials of 3 or 6 months' duration were conducted.
Patients received fixed-dose milnacipran (100 or 200 mg/day) or placebo.
A 6-month extension phase assessed sustained benefits and treatment switching.

Main Results:

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Milnacipran significantly improved fibromyalgia pain and overall condition compared to placebo after 12 weeks.
Sustained improvements in pain scores and patient-reported outcomes were observed up to 12 months.
Milnacipran was generally well-tolerated, with nausea being the most common mild to moderate adverse event.

Conclusions:

Milnacipran is an effective treatment for fibromyalgia in adults, demonstrating both short-term efficacy and long-term sustained benefits.
The drug is generally well-tolerated, making it a viable option for fibromyalgia management.
Further research may explore optimal dosing and long-term safety profiles.