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[Therapy of generalized tendomyopathy (fibromyalgia) caused by blocking 5-HT3 receptors]
T Stratz1, T Schochat, P Hrycaj
1Hochrhein-Institut für Rehabilitationsforschung, Bad Säckingen.
Abstract:
In more than 40% of patients with fibromyalgia a marked influence on the pain in the skeletal system with a decrease of the tenderness at "tenderpoints" can be achieved by blocking the 5-HT3-receptors with ondansetron or tropisetron-hydrochloride. Physical complaints and vegetative signs also improve. It is discussed if patients not responding to therapy with ondansetron or tropisetron-hydrochloride have to be discriminated as a subgroup of fibromyalgia. More investigations are needed to confirm the described effects.
Insights
Blocking serotonin 5-HT3 receptors with ondansetron or tropisetron-hydrochloride significantly reduced skeletal pain and tenderness in over 40% of fibromyalgia patients. This treatment also improved physical and vegetative symptoms, suggesting a potential new therapeutic avenue.
Area of Science:
- Pharmacology
- Neurology
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder affecting over 40% of patients.
- Skeletal pain and tenderness are primary symptoms of fibromyalgia.
- Current treatments offer limited relief for many patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of 5-HT3 receptor antagonists in managing fibromyalgia symptoms.
- To evaluate the impact of ondansetron and tropisetron-hydrochloride on pain and tenderness.
- To explore potential patient subgroups based on treatment response.
Main Methods:
- Patients with fibromyalgia received ondansetron or tropisetron-hydrochloride.
- Pain intensity and tenderness at specific points were assessed.
- Physical complaints and vegetative signs were monitored.
Main Results:
- Over 40% of patients experienced significant pain reduction and decreased tenderness.
- Improvement in physical complaints and vegetative signs was observed.
- Non-responders may represent a distinct fibromyalgia subgroup.
Conclusions:
- 5-HT3 receptor blockade with ondansetron or tropisetron-hydrochloride is effective for a significant portion of fibromyalgia patients.
- This therapeutic approach offers a novel strategy for managing fibromyalgia symptoms.
- Further research is required to validate these findings and identify patient subgroups.